Getting a divorce is a serious decision to make, but it is not the only one you will need to make. Hundreds of thousands of people file for divorce every year, and they all have to decide how they are going to get divorced. There are several options of how someone can get divorced. Here is what you should know about each option:
Litigation
Getting divorced via litigation is one of the most complex options available. Choosing litigation means taking your divorce to family court, having each side present their case before a judge, and hoping they get the outcome they are looking for. This option is typically for couples that are completely unable to cooperate in a divorce and need a third party to settle things for them.
Negotiation
Settling a divorce through negotiation involves each spouse coming to a collaboration, often with their own attorney. This option grants spouses much more control over the outcome of their divorce while keeping the children’s best interests in mind. Because the couple is working together to resolve things, they often can do so on a schedule they approve of and in a faster timeline as well.
Mediation
Medication is similar to negotiation, except a neutral third party oversees things. The mediator’s responsibility is to ensure that everyone is staying on task, remaining civil, and not dwelling on any subject too long. This option also grants a lot of scheduling flexibility for both sides, as they can often collaborate on a timeline that suits their needs.
Uncontested
An uncontested divorce is a divorce that involves the couple having an agreement about everything in a divorce, including child support, alimony, custody, and asset separation. This option is often the fastest form of divorce, as it usually only involves paperwork and very little discussion at all. Uncontested divorces are also delicate because even a single point of contention in a divorce can push the couple into one of the other methods of resolving a divorce.
Which option is right for you?
It is hard to know which one you should pursue with so many options to resolve a divorce. Thankfully, you can consult with an experienced divorce attorney for the guidance you need. A skilled lawyer can help you weigh your options and even help you pursue your goal of settling your divorce quickly and efficiently. There are many ways to resolve a divorce, so make sure you take the time to choose the one that is right for you.
