When a couple decides to divorce, they must determine how to end their marriage legally. In some cases, the couple can agree on all aspects of their divorce and file for an uncontested divorce. An uncontested divorce is one in which the spouses agree on all terms of the divorce, including child custody, visitation, child support, spousal support, division of property, and division of debt.
If the couple cannot agree on all terms of their divorce, they will need to file for a contested divorce. A contested divorce is one in which the spouses do not agree on at least one issue related to their divorce. For example, if the couple cannot agree on who should have primary custody of their children or how to divide their property between them, they will need to file for a contested divorce.
In order for a couple to file for an uncontested divorce in most states, they must first complete a period of separation. This is a period of time during which the couple does not live together as husband and wife. In some states, the length of this separation period is six months; in others it is one year. Once the required separation period has been completed, either spouse can file for an uncontested divorceso long as both spouses are in agreement about all terms of thedivorce.
If you are considering filing for an uncontested divorce but are not sure whether you and your spouse can agree on all terms related to yourdivorce , it may be beneficial to speak with an attorney who specializesin family law . He or she can help you understand your state's requirementsfor an uncontested divorce and advise you on whether filing for such adivorce is right for your particular situation.