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Ways to Avoid a Contested Divorce

Many divorcing spouses have a difficult time getting along, which might be a major reason they have decided to end their marriages. However, refusing to compromise and agree during the divorce process will lead to a contested divorce, which means that one or more issues are not settled between the spouses before they file. In many situations, a contested divorce will require litigation, which costs more time, money, and stress for both spouses. It also puts the outcome of your divorce in the hands of the court, which is risky.

For these reasons, it is important to try to avoid a contested divorce when possible. The first step to do so should be to consult with a St. Augustine divorce attorney who is a skilled negotiator.

Prefiling Negotiation and Mediation

Though you decided to file for divorce, there is no requirement that you file your paperwork with the court right away. Instead, your lawyer can help guide you to resolutions of as many issues as possible, if not all.

First, your divorce attorney should identify all points of contention and negotiate with your spouse’s attorney to try to find a middle ground. In many cases, it simply takes the perspective and guidance of a legal professional for your spouse to compromise. If informal negotiation does not work, you and your spouse might attend mediation sessions. Your lawyer can represent you during this process and write up a mediation agreement if an agreement is successful.

Discuss Your Options with Our St. Augustine Divorce Lawyers

At Naples & Spence, Attorneys at Law, we always seek to resolve divorces in the most efficient manner possible. However, if a contested divorce is necessary, an experienced divorce lawyer is ready to advocate for your rights in the courtroom. Contact us online or call 904.478.8964 to discuss how we can help with your divorce case today.