Each year thousands of adults in the United States decide to file for a divorce. While every couple hopes to have an amicable divorce that is acceptable for all parties, often couples simply cannot agree on major issues. When a couple is unable to agree on major issues, the divorce is contested and the couple must work through their attorneys and the legal system to come to an acceptable agreement. The majority of divorces that are filed are ultimately contested, making it important for adults to understand how a contested divorce may affect them. Being aware of the common reasons for a contested divorce helps adults prepare for a potentially contentious dissolution of their marriage.
Child Custody Disagreements
Deciding custody arrangements for mutual children is one of the most difficult aspects of a divorce. Too Many divorces become contested because parents simply cannot agree on who will have primary physical or legal custody of the children. Neither parent wants to risk missing valuable time with the children and many parents are concerned about the potential financial ramifications of not being the primary custodian of a child. Failure to come to an understanding regarding parenting time and child support can drag out negotiations, ultimately leading to court hearings.
Asset Disputes
Throughout the marriage, couples work together to build wealth and financial security for their families. Once a marriage has reached an end, both parties want to be sure that they receive a fair share of the assets that were acquired during the marriage. Unfortunately, divorcing couples cannot always agree on what division is fair since both parties want to be sure that they receive the best possible financial settlement. Divorces that are contested because of disputes over assets are often time consuming since both sides must request and review all financial documentation while building a case that proves why their suggested division is reasonable.
Personal Animosity
In some cases, a divorce becomes contested simply because one or both parties has so much animosity for the former spouse that they want to make the divorce process as difficult as possible. During these types of divorces, potential agreements are dismissed for little or no legitimate reason. One party may wish to make the divorce difficult enough that the spouse gives up and attempts to reconcile. There are even some situations in which one person will drag out the divorce to cost the former spouse more money in legal fees and living expenses in the hopes that he or she will eventually agree to anything simply out of desperation for financial relief.
When to Seek Help
If you or a loved one has started considering obtaining a divorce it is important that you receive the counsel of a qualified divorce attorney. Contested divorces are often complex and one mistake could cost you dearly. Once you have decided to file for divorce contact the compassionate lawyers at Vayman & Teitelbaum. With offices conveniently located in Alpharetta, Lawrenceville, Cummings, and Marietta our law firm has helped many Georgia residents successfully gain their divorces. Contact us today at 678-736-7700 to schedule a consultation to discuss your unique situation.