Getting a divorce is always a fraught experience, but some approaches to the process are less stressful than others. In particular, filing for an uncontested divorce can save you a lot of time and money. But what exactly is an uncontested divorce? Uncontested divorces are those between two individuals who are in agreement about the terms of their separation and want to minimize conflict in the divorce process. Even in an uncontested divorce, though, there are still legal issues, and you need to have proper support to navigate the process.
Beyond DIY
Uncontested divorce is sometimes categorized as a “DIY” divorce because you can find all the information you need to complete the process online – you don’t even need a lawyer. That said, you shouldn’t actually go it alone. A more accurate characterization of the uncontested divorce process is that it allows you to save time and money and, most importantly, minimizes the emotional trauma of the divorce process for all parties involved. This is often a high priority for parents who don’t want to traumatize their children with their separation and who hope to co-parent well going forward.
The Right Support
Rather than thinking of an uncontested divorce as one that doesn’t require any kind of legal support, it’s better to think of it as a legal process that require appropriate guidance, though less than a typical divorce might. In order to reach an equitable settlement and ensure that your rights are protected, you should still hire a divorce attorney to consult on the case. Even if you’ve agreed to certain terms before meeting with a lawyer, you may be entitled to additional resources that a lawyer can help you pursue.
Trying to represent yourself is one of the most common mistakes people make when getting divorced, but just because you hire an attorney doesn’t mean the process has to be adversarial. You can still be a party to an uncontested divorce and seek legal advice.
Save Time And Money
Even when you hire a lawyer, one of the major advantages of an uncontested divorce is that the process will save you time and money. On average, the modern divorce costs about $15,000 per person, but uncontested divorces are much less expensive. That’s because your lawyer will work far fewer hours on the case compared to more contentious proceedings. It’s more expensive than trying to go it alone, but you’ve got a lot to gain in terms of legal advice.
Uncontested divorces are a relative rarity in our litigious society where everyone is fighting to get the most out of a stressful situation, and it’s a sign of real emotional maturity that you and your partner are willing and able to keep the peace. As you move through the process, keep a cool head and don’t create conflict where none exists. While no one looks back on their divorce fondly, an uncontested divorce can offer you the reassurance that you’ve done what’s best for all parties and can look forward to what comes next.