Should You Get A Contested Or Uncontested Divorce In Fort Lauderdale?
Going through the breakup of a marriage is a messy business. Few people who have been through it walk away unscathed. Watching your relationship fall apart hurts and dividing property and making other practical decisions in the aftermath often proves challenging.
At some point, you face a choice: either you see a way to work divorce-related matters out amicably with your soon-to-be former spouse or you will need to take them to court. Our Fort Lauderdale divorce lawyer explains more about the differences between a contested versus uncontested divorce and what to consider in making the right choice for your situation.
The Difference Between A Contested Versus Uncontested Fort Lauderdale Divorce
When getting a divorce in Fort Lauderdale, there are important issues that must be addressed before you can get a final court order. One of the first matters of business is marital property division. Under the Florida Statutes, all property and assets earned or acquired during your marriage must be split between you and your spouse on an equitable basis.
Depending on your circumstances, there may be other important divorce-related issues to address. An alimony award might be appropriate in the situation and if you have children, you will need to divide parental rights and responsibilities between you. It is common for each spouse to feel strongly about all these issues. Of course, each party’s primary concern is making sure their rights and best interests are protected.
In some cases, divorcing couples are able to reach amicable and mutually beneficial agreements through the help of their legal representatives. This is referred to as an uncontested divorce. Some of the benefits of getting an uncontested divorce in Fort Lauderdale include:
- It takes less time to resolve and obtain a final order;
- Less time means less attorney fees;
- Not hashing out the details in family court protects your privacy;
- It can help put any anger or bitterness behind you and move on with your life.
In the event a couple cannot agree on important divorce-related matters, going through a contested divorce in Fort Lauderdale may be the only option.
When A Divorce Should Be Contested
In an uncontested divorce, there is typically less stress, less time spent attending Broward County Family Court proceedings, and lower overall costs. However, there are situations that may make a contested divorce the best option. This includes:
- When your spouse is being unreasonable and unwilling to negotiate;
- When they are determined to get more than their fair share;
- When there are hidden assets or allegations of cheating or other marital misconduct;
- When there are serious disputes over children or ownership of certain property, such as family heirlooms or a business.
Discuss Your Options With Our Fort Lauderdale Divorce Lawyer
Decisions you make during your divorce can impact you for years to come. To discuss whether a contested or uncontested divorce is the best option, contact Fort Lauderdale divorce lawyer Vanessa L. Prieto. Reach out and request a consultation today.
Sources:
leg.state.fl.us/Statutes/index.cfm?App_mode=Display_Statute&URL=0000-0099/0061/Sections/0061.052.html
browardclerk.org/Divisions/Family
