Divorces are often considered messy, difficult, draining, and filled with conflict. While it is common for spouses to disagree throughout the divorce process and require a contested divorce, many couples remain in agreement with one another throughout the divorce process, allowing for an uncontested divorce.
If you are seeking a divorce but agree with your spouse about everything, you may wonder if you need a divorce attorney. In this article, we’re looking at all the factors of an uncontested divorce and exploring how a divorce attorney will benefit you throughout the process.
What Is Involved in an Uncontested Divorce?
It is easy to assume that an uncontested divorce means no negotiations, court appearances, or extensive paperwork. While fewer legal proceedings are involved in an uncontested divorce, there are still procedures to work through and complex factors to consider throughout the process.
Uncontested divorces in Georgia include:
The Divorce Complaint
The divorce complaint is a document that informs the court of your desire to end the marriage, your qualifications for divorce, and in an uncontested divorce, requests that the settlement you and your spouse have agreed to become part of the Final Order in the case.
The Settlement Agreement
The settlement agreement puts into writing the terms of your agreements regarding:
- Alimony
- Child custody
- Child support
- Property division
Only one spouse must file the divorce papers. The other must sign and file the Acknowledgement of Service, which indicates to the court that both spouses are aware of and consent to the divorce.
In all divorce cases, the court must wait at least 31 days from when the spouse signed and filed the Acknowledgement of Service.
Why Should I Hire a Divorce Attorney for My Uncontested Divorce?
As simple as an uncontested divorce may sound, there are beneficial reasons to partner with an experienced divorce attorney.
The right legal counsel will assist with:
- Ensuring your settlement agreement remains fair and balanced
- Making sure you are not being taken advantage of at any stage in the proceedings
- Advocating for the best interest of your children
- Thinking through negotiations with your spouse
- Managing all necessary paperwork to confirm you file correctly
- Ensuring your case is finalized timely
Additionally, as straightforward as your divorce may seem, numerous factors could interfere with your journey toward divorce. Amicable divorces can quickly turn sour and cause your uncontested divorce to become contested. With a skilled divorce attorney, you can work to avoid complications and be fully prepared if your proceedings take a negative turn.
If you are pursuing an uncontested divorce in Georgia, turn to the experts at Platt Family Law.
Our divorce attorneys offer in-depth knowledge of family law and rely on nearly 20 years of experience representing spouses in contested and uncontested divorces throughout Atlanta, Georgia, and the surrounding areas. Even if your divorce seems simple, schedule a consultation with our firm to ensure you will remain protected throughout the process. Contact our office today: 404-255-3434
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