While the dissolution of a marriage can be challenging on an emotional level, the legal process does not always have to be contentious. Many couples can reach an agreement to end their marriages amicably. Those that do often take advantage of the uncontested divorce process.
Uncontested divorces bypass the disputes and litigation that many divorces are known for. With the help of a skilled divorce attorney, you can resolve the divorce process without conflict and move on to the next stage of your life. Let a Suwanee uncontested divorce lawyer help you evaluate your options.
The term “uncontested divorce” is not defined under state law but is used informally in family courts across Georgia. In general, a divorce is considered uncontested when both parties can agree on all of the significant issues that the family courts must resolve. Some of these issues commonly include:
It is important to remember that a divorce is only uncontested when every issue is resolved. Even if a single issue remains contested—for example, questions of alimony—the divorce is considered contested.
An important part of the process of resolving these sticking points is negotiation. This is where the guidance of a Suwanee uncontested divorce attorney is valuable. An attorney could rely on their experience and skill to help the parties reach an agreement that resolves disputes and allows everyone to move forward with a divorce decree they are comfortable with. If the issues are particularly difficult to remedy, our team could recommend mediation and ensure your best interests are represented.
One of the major benefits of an uncontested divorce is the amount of time that could be saved compared to a standard divorce. While litigating disputes in family court can take months or even years, uncontested divorces are typically much shorter.
Additionally, forgoing the need for litigation also keeps costs down and allows the spouses to make their own decisions on important matters such as child custody rather than letting the judge decide for them during a trial. An uncontested divorce can also help protect privacy, as all matters are settled between the couple and not in an open courtroom.
In addition to agreeing on all relevant issues, a divorcing couple must also meet certain requirements for filing an uncontested divorce. For example, one or both spouses must have lived in the state for at least six months prior to filing. There is also a mandatory waiting period in which Georgia courts are prohibited from entering a divorce decree until 31 days have passed following the filing of the petition. A Suwanee attorney can help ensure a couple meets all the requirements for filing an uncontested divorce in Georgia.
Going through a divorce can be an emotionally difficult and stressful time. However, if you and your ex can agree on all the relevant issues, the process can move forward without adding additional hardship.
You deserve to move on with your life and focus on what is ahead of you. If you believe an uncontested divorce might work for you, reach out to our skilled team today. A Suwanee uncontested divorce lawyer can be your advocate.