Contested vs. Uncontested Divorce

When you are considering divorce, you will hear the terms "contested" and "uncontested." Knowing the difference between the two can make your divorce proceedings easier in the long run.

If you are lucky enough to fall into the uncontested divorce category, that means that you and your spouse will not be arguing over the division of your assets. However, although it isn't rare, this type of divorce is not as common given that divorce itself can often involve hurt emotions, causing people to bicker over even the smallest of details. Those who do declare an uncontested divorce will find their documents going through the court system more quickly, paying less to their lawyers and moving on with their lives.

Many people find themselves in a contested divorce for one reason or another. One or both parties will disagree with the terms of the divorce, which can include child support, child custody, allocation of debts, alimony and division of assets. Yet it is possible to start your divorce proceedings as a contested divorce and transition into uncontested if both parties are able to reach a mutual agreement.

Most judges prefer to work with uncontested divorces and will help you settle outside of court when possible.

Going through a contested divorce? Contact our law office to get help from a Jacksonville divorce lawyer.