Filing for a divorce is itself an emotional and physical trauma that we need to go through. However, when things are worse between the partners, leading to a contested divorce then it is going to be even tougher. This is the time when the partners are unable to reach an agreement. So, to make things work smoothly, here are some step-by-step guides to finalize your contested divorce.
First and foremost, you need to find a good lawyer for yourself to help you fight this case. For the best contested divorce lawyer Huntsville, AL you can contact The Harris firm. They have experienced professionals who can help you file a contested divorce. But the fees, in this case, are much higher than the uncontested one as it is a very complicated process. For more details, you can consult them online.
Steps-by-step Guide
- Gather all the important information about the case. This information includes assets and debts that you have during the marriage, child responsibilities, and the reason for divorce. Also, the reason for divorce is important whether it is fault-based or non-fault-based. Don’t forget the eligibility to file for divorce here in Alabama is that you and your spouse need to be a resident of Alabama for a minimum of 6 months.
- The next step is to file a complaint in the country court. You can do this in the place where the defendant resides or where you both got separated. You will need to provide your details along with the grounds for the divorce. Apart from this, you need to make a plea to the jury for the case and help you get a positive reply.
- After filing for divorce, the plaintiff may need to serve the complaint on the spouse. Many a times the defendant may not reply to this service making it more difficult for you. All you can do is ask the court to send the document through mail or take the help of the sheriff and lastly place this complaint in the newspaper.
- After this, the defendant needs to reply to it within 30 days. This will help to determine whether the case is contested or uncontested.
- The next step is discovery where both the parties will have to share any evidence that is required in this case.
- After this, negotiations will be carried on between the two parties to check if this matter can be sorted outside the court.
- If the parties do not agree to negotiations, then this case will through trials in court.
Generally, these contested cases get sorted within a year or 18 months. However, it depends on how fast the couple is ready to negotiate. Read the more amazing articles at theforbestimes.
