The first step is the preparation and filing of a complaint. This document notifies the court and your spouse, when served, that you want the court to end your marriage. It also lists your requests, such as child custody, child visitation, child support, spousal support, property division, attorney’s fees and costs. After the complaint is filed, the defendant must be served with a copy of the complaint. The defendant has thirty (30) days from the date of service of the complaint to serve an answer. If the defendant requests an extension, it is common for that party to be granted an additional thirty (30) days to serve an answer. The defendant may raise a counterclaim that is a part of the same pleading containing the answer. If the defendant files a counterclaim, the plaintiff must serve a reply within thirty days (or sixty days if an additional thirty day extension is granted). Unless both parties agree on all matters, a trial may be necessary on one or more claims. Even after the complaint is filed, some or all of the case may be resolved by agreement. A lawsuit is not always necessary. Most cases are resolved by agreement either before or after a lawsuit is filed.