By nature, a divorce is contentious. After all, if you and your spouse could agree on everything, you might still be married. There are times though when spouses do work out an arrangement for a divorce. You might be wondering if you still need a lawyer if you can come to that agreement. The short answer is yes. An uncontested divorce is a simplified process for divorce, but you should still have your lawyer look over the documents.
What Is an Uncontested Divorce?
In an uncontested divorce, you and your spouse agree on all the aspects of your divorce. You don’t have to go to court and argue any topic to let a judge decide. You and your spouse file the court forms that details your arrangements. This includes the division of all assets and debts. If you have children, it includes child support and custody, parenting responsibilities and other issues. Your uncontested divorce should also address spousal support, if one of you is providing any and for what time duration. Once you file your papers with the court, the judge still has to approve the divorce, but it should be just a formality.
Why You Should Have a Lawyer
Many states have an easier process for an uncontested divorce to allow couples to go through the process without tying up time in the courts. You can probably complete the paperwork fairly easily without any help from a lawyer, so you’re wondering why you would need one. A lawyer can review the paperwork and ensure that you’ve covered all the issues so you don’t have problems later on.
Couples with children and more assets may want to have a lawyer help them come to an agreement on certain items. Your lawyer can help you divide assets that might seem difficult to agree on, such as a retirement package. Your lawyer can ensure that you’re not giving up your legal rights. When a couple has substantial assets or debts, you want peace of mind that you’ve considered all the elements of your divorce.
An Uncontested Divorce Has Many Advantages
Coming to an agreement with your spouse about your divorce keeps you out of court and can save you money, but don’t try to save so much money that you miss doing it right the first time. A divorce attorney can make sure that you’ve covered all your bases. Contact a divorce lawyer in Fairfax, VA, like the lawyers at May Law, LLP before filing paperwork with the court.