Spouses deciding to end their marriage can choose between a contested or uncontested divorce. In seeking advice from a lawyer about your situation, it might help to understand the idea behind uncontested divorces. The information below can help you prepare for your next steps.

A Guide to Uncontested Divorce

What Does It Mean?

If you and your spouse reach an agreement on all issues that must be resolved to end your marriage, you can file for an uncontested divorce. These issues often involve dividing the debts and property acquired during the marriage, as well as child custody, visitation, and support, and determining whether one spouse will pay alimony. When spouses can’t agree without a judge’s decision, it’s known as a contested divorce.

Benefits of an Uncontested Divorce

Divorcing spouses who settle their disputed issues without court hearings generally save money and time. Typically, divorce attorneys charge more for representing clients in contested divorces than uncontested cases. Contested cases take longer to move through the judicial system than uncontested ones because they involve more court appearances. You and your spouse have more control over the outcome in an uncontested case since you are the decision-makers, not the judge.       

Options for Coming to an Agreement 

Some spouses are able to agree by talking directly to one another. Another option is for each spouse to hire a divorce attorney and allow them to negotiate settlements with their client’s input and approval.

While every case is different, achieving an uncontested divorce generally depends on a couple’s ability and willingness to communicate and cooperate within reason. Before you sign any agreement, it’s wise to have an experienced divorce lawyer explain your legal rights and review and discuss the document in detail.  

If you’re considering a divorce, seek help from The Law Offices of Charley Johnson in Leon County, TX. A skilled negotiator and vigorous advocate, this divorce attorney offers more than 30 years of experience to clients in contested and uncontested divorces. To learn more about their practice, visit the website. Call (903) 536-2185 today to schedule a confidential consultation.