Couples who have mutually decided that filing for divorce is their best option often expect their divorce proceedings to be uncontested. When adults have no minor children, have little personal property, or feel they agree on all major issues, they are able to benefit from filing an uncontested divorce. The majority of uncontested divorces are settled quickly in Georgia (often within a 60-day period) and are less expensive than an uncontested divorce. However, it is not unusual for couples to realize they are not in as much agreement as previously thought and the divorce becomes contested. Understanding what you should do when an uncontested divorce becomes contested helps you to protect yourself in future proceedings.
Document Everything
Once you realize that you and your spouse are not in agreement on certain issues, begin documenting everything. Securing financial documents, information about assets, previously recorded custody or settlement agreements, and anything that could affect your case is important. Do not rely on your spouse to share documentation or to be completely fair once the divorce begins to progress. Ultimately your ex-spouse is interested in his or her own best interest and will not always disclose information that may help you. Make copies of any document that you believe will help you secure the divorce settlement you desire.
Do Not Fixate on the Past
A problem that many adults encounter once their divorce goes from amicable to contested is that they begin fixating on the past. The shock that a spouse is going against prior agreements in order to protect him or herself may paralyze the other spouse. As soon as the divorce becomes contested, it is vital that both adults focus on concluding the divorce as quickly and reasonably as possible. It is not in anyone’s best interest to wait and hope that a former spouse will remember past agreements and stop negotiating for the best possible settlement. Focus on the future and getting the divorce resolved in a way that is as favorable for you as possible.
Contact an Attorney
After it becomes apparent that you and your spouse are not agreeing on major issues, consult a qualified divorce attorney. Waiting could lead to your spouse retaining the lawyer you planned to secure while giving your spouse more time to prepare a case. The last thing you want is to find yourself in court without legal representation after your former spouse encourages his or her attorney to rush filings and setting a court date because they know you have not yet contacted an attorney. Contacting an attorney as soon as possible helps you avoid that potential scenario.
Vayman and Teitlebaum
Going through a divorce is difficult and the shock of finding out that the stressful process is going to be harder than expected only makes things worse. The compassionate divorce attorneys at Vayman and Teitlebaum are able to help you during this time by providing you with the representation you deserve. With four offices located throughout the Atlanta Metro area, we are able to provide you with the assistance you need. Contact us today at 678-73607799 to discuss your situation and schedule a consultation.
