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Contested And Uncontested Divorce

In Massachusetts, a divorce can be contested or uncontested. Before you file, you’ll need to choose the type that’s right for you. A contested divorce means that one person disagrees with the divorce or the terms of the divorce, and an uncontested implies that both people agree about everything they file.

One of the most significant differences between contested and uncontested divorces is the time it takes to become finalized. Uncontested divorces will usually go through relatively quickly. Also, an uncontested divorce does not require a trial, discovery or other time-consuming legal procedures. That means that legal fees will be much less expensive in an uncontested divorce than in a contested divorce.

When a couple divorces, some decisions need to be made. These may relate to asset and debt division, spousal alimony, child support, custody and visitation. If a couple can agree on all the significant issues before trial, that is called an uncontested divorce. Conversely, if there are one or more important matters that the couple cannot agree on, it is a contested divorce. A divorce may start as contested but become uncontested as the parties resolve disagreements.

Significant disagreements couples face while getting a divorce is financial asset division. Some assets that come up in divorces include money, homes, debt repayment, retirement accounts and businesses. Getting a lawyer to handle these situations makes it easier for couples to get divorced. In addition, lawyers will do what is fair without emotional entanglements that can cause arguments and a delayed divorce. We at Castel & Hall, LLP., can help you divorce your partner and ensure you are happy with the circumstances.