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What’s the difference between contested and uncontested divorce?

On Behalf of | Apr 10, 2017 | Divorce |

How many times have you been tripped up by misinterpreting a word in a sentence? It is so easy to do because there are so many words in the English language that are spelled the same way and have different meanings. A lot depends on context.

In all matters of Connecticut family law, misunderstanding meaning can lead to serious problems for all the parties involved. The law grants individuals specific protections and rights in divorce and otherwise. If anyone involved in the process isn’t crystal clear about the many issues that need to be resolved, the outcome could leave someone feeling mistreated and angry. Consulting skilled legal counsel is a way to minimize that risk.

If you are thinking of seeking a divorce, one of the first decisions you may face is how you should proceed. Is the nature of your financial situation and your spousal relationship such that you can come to an amicable agreement on dissolution, then seeking an uncontested divorce might be a viable option for you.

Not only does an uncontested divorce tend to be less costly to pursue, even with an attorney at your side, it also may allow the settlement to be finalized and approved more quickly. Not surprisingly, that makes the uncontested route attractive for many couples. However, the caveat in the process is that both parties have to agree on every issue. That includes child custody details, who will pay what for child support and/or alimony.

Assets and debts also must be divided between the divorcing individuals in a way that both find to be equitable. What that means can be a matter of opinion and that can lead to disputes. In addition, if the issue can’t be resolved through mediation, negotiation or some other alternative means, the process goes to court as a contested divorce.