There’s no getting around the fact that divorce cases are emotionally charged and expensive life-changing events. But it doesn’t have to be that way. If you and your spouse are on good terms, an uncontested divorce may be the perfect option. In this article, we’ll discuss why.
Uncontested Divorce at a Glance
An uncontested divorce is one in which both spouses are generally on the same page on all things to be considered in the process – including child custody and support, division of assets and debts, etc.
Benefits of Uncontested Divorce
For many, lower costs are one of the biggest benefits associated with uncontested divorces. But there are host of other benefits as well, including:
- Shorter time – because there are less disagreements and fewer proceedings, couples are able to get on with their lives more quickly
- Privacy – While your divorce records will be a matter of public record (unless you are successful in having your divorce documents sealed) the disclosures and various proposals you and your spouse make to one another do not have to be available to the public
- Getting Along – Because you and your spouse will be negotiating directly during the brief process, the time you’re both taking to communicate with one another is a fantastic opportunity for forgiveness and healing
When Uncontested Divorce is Not the Right Choice
If there is a disparity of power in the relationship or instances of physical or emotional abuse, the spouse who is being victimized will definitely need a lawyer to fight on their behalf.
Likewise, if both spouses cannot speak without arguing and even screaming or one spouse is determined to keep certain marital items or larger share of assets, both of you should hire lawyers.
If you and your spouse are intimidated by the idea of in-depth financial disclosures and dividing marital assets, a divorce lawyer can help you immensely.
Changing from Uncontested to Contested Divorce
Even if you’ve already filed for an uncontested divorce, you or your spouse can change it to a contested divorce. Here’s how to do that:
- By reading the paperwork, make sure your divorce has been classified as an “uncontested divorce” – this classification occurs when the divorce has been initially filed.
- If you did not initiate the divorce, you can immediately change the classification to “contested divorce” by filing a response with the court identifying the points of disagreement.
Ask Men’s Legal Center for Divorce Advice
Men are no different than women when it comes to divorce: we face the same emotional and financial struggles as anyone else. However, statistics show that women generally fair better in divorce courts than men. That doesn’t have to be true in your case.
The San Diego men’s rights lawyers here at the Men’s Legal Center are dedicated to providing you with the knowledge, experience and resources needed to put you in the best possible position for a positive and fair outcome.
If you’re a man facing or considering divorce, we urge you to call the Men’s Legal Center in San Diego at (619) 234-3838.