Here is what you need to know about a contested divorce.
Ending a marriage is never easy, and when your spouse is contesting the divorce, the experience is even more challenging. A contested divorce can raise intense emotions, lead to long and bitter disputes, and make the process more expensive.
While you can’t stop your spouse from contesting the divorce, you can prepare yourself for what’s to come. While the specifics of your final divorce are unknown until the case’s conclusion, the outcome of a contested divorce is the dissolution of your marriage and the start of a new chapter. Here is what you need to know about a contested divorce.
What Is A Contested Divorce?
When couples cannot agree on their divorce issues, it’s a contested divorce. These disagreements can involve critical factors such as child support, custody, division of finances and assets, alimony, or other matters regarding their relationship.
Generally, couples with contested divorces try to resolve their issues between themselves through negotiation or mediation. If these methods don’t work, they must go to court, where a judge will decide the divorce terms.
Gather Relevant Documents
In a contested divorce, the judge decides on the issues you and your spouse cannot agree on. Those rulings are based on the law and facts of the case, including the evidence, testimony, and arguments of both sides.
You must come prepared with all the documentation and information necessary to support your position and convince the judge to rule in your favor. These relevant financial documents include tax returns, bank statements, pay stubs, and property records. These documents are critical in dividing assets and spousal support. Additionally, if you have children, keep records of all expenses related to their care, which will be important in calculating child support. A divorce attorney can help you gather these documents and prepare you.
Prepare For Custody Battles
For parents, issues regarding their child’s future, like where they will live and how much time they spend with each parent, can be the most contentious point in a contested divorce. Judges make child custody decisions based on the child’s best interests. If you are fighting for primary custody, be prepared to provide evidence of your ability to provide them with a stable, safe, and loving environment.
After The Trial
Once a judge has made their decision, you must follow their instructions to ensure the divorce goes through smoothly. These instructions could include making payments or filing paperwork with the court.
If you’re dealing with a contested divorce in Maryland, it’s important to remember you are not alone and that help is available. Knowing what to expect during the divorce process and knowing your rights can make navigating the situation easier. With the support and guidance of an experienced divorce attorney, you can make the best decisions for yourself and your family.
The Right Lawyer Can Make All the Difference
Hiring a lawyer should be the first thing you do when encountering any legal matter, not a last resort. Whether you’re thinking about a separation or divorce or have been charged with a crime, been injured in an accident, or your civil rights have been violated, you need to first know your rights. Contact Mike Mastracci today at 614 Edmondson Ave Catonsville, MD 21228 (with satellite offices in Ocean City, Snow Hill, and Salisbury, Maryland), 410-869-3400, and check us out on Facebook.