Uncontested Divorce
Going through a divorce filing can be complicated, expensive, and above all, stressful. There are a number of important decisions to make, the results of which being what typically causes most arguments during the process. These issues include the division of assets (if any), determining spousal support and/or child support, payment of debts, and parenting arrangements. Many couples are able to agree on these issues, or they simply don't have a deeply entangled situation (no shared assets, no children, and no spousal support needed.) In cases like these, couples can complete what's called a pro se divorce, which means that they represent themselves through the proceedings, rather than secure an attorney.
We The People Helps You Navigate And File Uncontested Divorce Papers
For those spouses who can come to an agreement on all terms of their divorce, they can then complete uncontested divorce forms. Even the uncontested divorce papers can be complex, if one isn't used to the legalese terminology. We The People can talk you through the process, as well as assist you in filling out and filing the uncontested divorce forms. We complete the paperwork to court standards, and at a fraction of what an attorney would cost.
Each state has its own regulations as to how to file uncontested divorce forms, and we ensure that your paperwork is completed and filed properly. We offer an affordable solution to those who don't want or cannot afford an attorney's involvement. If you're not sure how to file or where to file your uncontested divorce papers, what your state's divorce regulations are, whether or not there are time lapses to wait out, We The People can help. We can also ensure that statements regarding the separation and reasons for divorce are presented objectively and in the expected language that the courts expect.
Let We The People help you navigate a potentially emotional and complex event in your life. We the People is here to help you file your uncontested divorce forms. Our friendly staff members are well-versed in your state's divorce laws, and are skilled in helping our clients get through their divorce proceedings as quickly and painlessly as possible.
Divorce without Children
A divorce ends a marriage and all direct legal relationships between the couple, except those specifically written out in the divorce decree. Such issues as spousal support, division of property and payment of debts may be addressed in a written agreement.
When both parties agree on these issues, the divorce is "uncontested."
To obtain a divorce, one or both parties (depending on options available in your state) will file all required paperwork with the appropriate court, beginning with a petition (or complaint) for divorce. A divorce is granted by a judge after the necessary paperwork has been submitted, all required waiting periods have lapsed and all appearances before the judge are completed. In some cases it is not necessary to be physically present in the court to get a divorce.
Divorce with Children
A divorce ends a marriage and all direct legal relationships between the couple, except those specifically written out in the divorce decree or judgement. Such issues as spousal support, parenting arrangements, support of children, division of property and payment of debts may be addressed in a written agreement. When both parties agree on these issues, the divorce is "uncontested."
To obtain a divorce, one or both parties (depending on options available in your state) will file all required paperwork with the appropriate court, beginning with a petition (or complaint) for divorce. A divorce is granted by a judge after the necessary paperwork has been submitted, all required waiting periods have lapsed and all appearances before the judge are completed. In some cases it is not necessary to be physically present in the court to get a divorce.
How to Talk About Divorce with Your Children
While ending any marriage is stressful, a divorce with children can be particularly worrying. In addition to divorce paperwork preparation, parents are worried about how to tell the kids. While there is no way to shield the children from the painful truth (they have to know) the manner in which you break the news can impact their reaction and how they cope with it. Here are some useful tips.
Talking To Children About Divorce
- Stay calm. Children pick up on parents' emotions, especially negative ones. Getting upset or angry is likely to make children more unsettled and anxious. Being calm, on the other hand, can help make for a smooth transition process.
- Meet as a family. It is preferable that both parents are present to talk about the divorce with their children. The kids need to know that their relationship with both their parents will continue (if possible).
- Plan what to say. Divorce can be a confusing as well as frightening time for the kids. Understanding also differs according to age so it important to plan what you are going to say. Remember to reassure them of your love and that the separation is not their fault.
- Answer their questions. Children may have questions and it is important to take them seriously. Mostly they want to know why you are getting divorced and what it will change for them e.g. living arrangements, whether they will get to see both parents, etc. Make time to explain things, individually if necessary.
- Help them express their feelings. Anger and sadness are both natural reactions to the divorce. Let them know that it is okay to express their feelings but channel it through positive activities. Check inappropriate behavior by showing them how to resolve frustration and conflict without aggression.
Divorce paperwork preparation can be confusing as there are many different types of forms to fill. These included divorce with children or without, no-fault, uncontested, etc. You must fill the appropriate one for your situation, do it correctly, completely and within the given time frame. Further, each state has its own requirements.
We The People offers assistance with divorce paperwork preparation. We are not attorneys but can provide you with trustworthy resources and guidance in the required areas. If it is a divorce with children involved, or you own property jointly with your spouse, the two parties must come to an agreement or settlement as to who will receive what after the divorce is finalized. Meeting with a professional can take away the stress and confusion and help you work confidently towards quick and smooth resolution.
Divorce Filing Is Never Easy But Having The Right Divorce Filing Forms Can Make It Less Difficult
Making the decision to end a marriage is never easy. You've invested a portion of your life in a relationship that just doesn't work anymore. Once you've made up your mind that a divorce filing is the best answer for you and your spouse, you'll need to file the appropriate paperwork in order to get the process started. Because there are many different kinds of divorce filing (no fault, uncontested, divorce with children, without children, etc.) there are a variety of divorce filing forms that can be used depending on the circumstances. Some of the most common forms include:
Petition or Complaint about Divorce
This is the initial form that has to be filled out and filed with the court in order to start the process in your state. After it's been filed by the court, you will need to have it served on your spouse in some manner so that he or she is aware that you are seeking to end the marriage.
Acknowledgement
This is a simple form that must be signed by your spouse acknowledging that they received the Petition or Complaint.
Divorce Settlement Agreement
If your divorce filing will be uncontested by your spouse or you both will agree to a no fault divorce, you can prepare a Settlement Agreement that outlines who gets what marital property, including your house, any real estate properties, vehicles and personal possessions.
Divorce Degree
The final decree will be signed by a judge who has determined that the dissolution of the marriage can proceed. Once this form has been filed with the court, your marriage has ended.
More Complex Divorce Filing Forms Include:
- Response or Answer to Divorce Complaint
- Petition for Full or Partial Custody
- Child Support Agreement or Order
- Visitation Agreement or Order
- Child Custody Agreement or Order
- Spousal Support Agreement or Order
Common Questions About Divorce
Divorce is often a very complicated process, so chances are that you have many questions about filing for divorce, the requirements, cost, and time frame. Here are answers to some of the most common divorce-related questions that we receive at We The People.
Many people wonder, "Can you get a divorce without a lawyer?" The answer is yes, especially if the divorce is not contested and is pretty straightforward in terms of child custody and asset allocation. A lawyer is not required by law in divorce proceedings and We The People can guide you through the complexities of divorce filing forms, ensuring a smooth process.
Whether you hire a lawyer or not, you'll still need to complete all the correct forms, file them, have your spouse served with the divorce papers, and receive your final judgement from the relevant court.
If you and your spouse have lived in the same place for several years, the court in which you must file your divorce may be very obvious. However, if you have moved recently, it may be a good idea to ask an experienced professional for advice on where to file. Local family courts or domestic courts typically handle divorce cases, rather than general civil courts or criminal courts.
However, a divorce is a full and final termination of a marriage. This is the option to choose if you are 100 percent certain that you no longer want to be married to your spouse and want to cut ties and go your separate ways forever.
Factors that affect the length of time for your divorce include whether your state has a waiting period, whether you have satisfied the residency requirements, whether your divorce is uncontested or no-fault, and whether the local family court where you are filing has a large backlog of cases to handle. It is important to note that a long legal separation can impact your eventual divorce.
Another possible reason for divorce is living apart for a year or longer or intending to live separately even under the same roof. This could include sleeping in separate rooms, ceasing to have a sexual relationship, living separate social lives, and avoiding daily contact. Mental illness can also be used as grounds for a divorce.
Surveys have found that when it's all said and done, the average divorce in the U.S. costs between $15,000 and $30,000. Much of this amount is spent on legal fees, which you can avoid a substantial part of if you choose to represent yourself in your divorce case and work with We The People on your divorce paperwork.
The divorce process begins with a divorce petition, which is created by one spouse and served on the other. After service, the other spouse can file a response to the divorce petition, and then both spouses typically disclose information about their income, assets, and other matters to come to and agreement on the terms of the divorce. The divorce will only become final when the appropriate court enters a judgement.