What is the difference between contested and uncontested divorce?

What is the difference between contested and uncontested divorce?

When a couple gets divorced, there are a wide variety of matters that need to be handled before the divorce can become finalized. Divorcing couples are going through a very difficult time and it is understandable that they may be quite emotional about their marriage coming to an end. Some couples are at the point of not even being able to talk to each other, which has a tendency to make the divorce difficult. However, other couples are willing to communicate, compromise, and cooperate with each other to make the process go as quickly as possible.

Contested Divorces

When a couple who is getting divorced seems to fight every step of the way, their divorce is likely considered contested. Not all issues in a divorce are necessarily contested. In some cases, the couple agrees on everything except for child custody, for example. Some contested matters can go through mediation where the couple can work the issue out, but in other situations, the best option may be to just have the court decide. The court will take all of the available information into consideration and then make what they believe is the best decision.

Uncontested Divorces

When a divorce is uncontested, the couple will make all of the decisions on their own. They have split up their assets, determined a custody agreement, how debts will be divided, and whether a spousal maintenance agreement will be put in place. Uncontested matters generally take less time than those that are contested. When a couple is amicable towards each other, the process goes far more smoothly and is less emotionally draining on both sides.

If you need the assistance of an experienced divorce attorney, contact our firm today.

Robert Pollack is an experienced divorce and family law attorney in Long Island, New York. Contact The Pollack Law Firm, P.C., to set up a free initial consultation.

Read Our Latest Blog Posts

  •  Who Gets to Keep the Engagement Ring in a NY Divorce?
  •  Is Mediation a Confidential Process?
  •  How Long Should I Keep My Divorce Records?