Ending a marriage can be stressful and emotionally draining. The legal proceedings involved in the divorce process can also be time-consuming and expensive. However, if couples are willing to cooperate and work together, there is an easier and simpler alternative to a traditional litigated divorce. Spouses in Illinois who share the common goals of getting through their divorce and moving on with their lives may want to consider an uncontested divorce.
The uncontested divorce process
In an uncontested divorce, the divorcing spouses essentially agree on all terms and do not have any material disputes that would require court intervention. There are two routes to an uncontested divorce. The first way is to agree on all issues like marital property, child support, spousal support and others. The second way happens when one party files a divorce petition and makes a request for relief, but the other party never responds and doesn’t appear in court. The case proceeds without the other party, with the court deciding if the filing spouse is entitled to the requests specified.
Benefits of an uncontested divorce
An uncontested divorce has two significant benefits: it saves time and money. Once the couple reaches a settlement, they can file it with the court, and a judge can approve it more quickly. Conversely, a traditional contested divorce takes months and, in some cases, years.
Professional help
Uncontested divorces are not for every couple. However, spouses who want to get through their divorce as quickly and as stress-free as possible may want to look into an uncontested divorce. An experienced and knowledgeable family law attorney can answer questions and help those in Illinois determine the best route for their divorce.