A contested divorce occurs any time the parties cannot agree on all of the issues involved. A small business, the division of assets, the division of debts, or the value of a house could be a source of contention. When this happens, a judge will try get a sense of like what is causing the problem and how they can resolve it. The judge generally hears the arguments from both sides and then makes the decision based on the evidence presented.
A skilled Cook County attorney can help you through your contested divorce. A skilled lawyer who has experience handling divorce cases can help you work towards an agreement that is fair to you.
The role of the lawyer differs in a contested divorce from an uncontested divorce. In a contested divorce, a lawyer will generally help advocate for a party’s rights and interests throughout the litigation process.
Lawyers can mitigate a contested divorce by trying to help the individual define their goals early in the case and then help them stay focused on those goals. Too often people get distracted by smaller issues and lose focus of what ultimately is important to them. A skilled attorney is going to help them determine their goals and create a plan of action so they can work towards a favorable agreement.
Ultimately, if the parents cannot agree on how they are going to raise their children, the court may step in to protect their best interests. The court may appoint an attorney, referred to as the guardian ad litem, on behalf of the children. The guardian ad litem would be tasked with coming up with a plan of action and looking out for the kids’ best interests.
They would do this by interviewing the children and the parents to try to determine a plan of action for them. An attorney can further explain the role of a guardian ad litem in a contested divorce.
In a contested divorce, mediation is a process where the parties sit down with a neutral third party whose sole job is to try and help them reach an agreement to avoid having the court make the ultimate decision. Mediation can be a great way to help the couple reach a favorable agreement.
Litigation, on the other hand, occurs once it is clear that the parties cannot reach an agreement. When in litigation, the attorneys for each party will present their case and evidence to the court for the judge to evaluate. An attorney can further explain when mediation and litigation may be necessary in a contested divorce.
If you feel like you and your former spouse cannot reach an agreement on the terms of your divorce, an attorney can help. Whether you need mediation or litigation, a Cook County lawyer can advocate for your interests throughout a contested divorce. For the help you need, call Reidy Law Office, LLC today.
Contemplating divorce is a profound step that involves emotional, financial, and legal considerations. Our "Am I Ready for Divorce?" checklist is a sensitively designed tool that helps individuals thoughtfully assess their readiness for this life-altering decision. This resource aims to guide you through introspection and practical evaluation, ensuring that your decision to pursue a divorce is made with both clarity and foresight.
In any legal or financial undertaking, having a comprehensive and organized set of financial records is critical. Our "Financial Records Checklist" is crafted to give you the clarity and control needed to manage your finances effectively. Whether you're preparing for tax season, undergoing legal proceedings, or simply aiming to get your financial house in order, this checklist is an indispensable tool for ensuring nothing is overlooked.
Divorce not only signifies a major shift in the lives of the parents but also heralds a period of adjustment and emotional transition for the children involved. Our meticulously crafted checklist, "Do Your Kids Need Therapy After Divorce?" is a vital resource for parents concerned about the psychological welfare of their children during and after a divorce. This checklist serves as a compassionate guide for recognizing signs of distress and taking proactive steps to support your child's mental health.
Divorce can be a complex and emotionally taxing journey, but when both parties agree on the key terms, an uncontested divorce can offer a more amicable and efficient path forward. Our Uncontested Divorce Checklist is a comprehensive guide designed to provide individuals with a clear roadmap through the legal process when there are no children involved. This free resource ensures that you are well-prepared, informed, and ready to proceed with confidence.