Uncontested Divorce

Experienced West Palm Beach Divorce Lawyer

Divorce can be complex and difficult to navigate, but it is a process that must be handled with as much objectivity and fairness as possible. One of the biggest reasons why divorces are so often full of conflict is because they are rarely straightforward, unless it happens to be what is known as an uncontested divorce, which means that all the legal issues were resolved by mutual agreement of the parties. If you have questions, contact our West Palm Beach divorce lawyers for answers.

What Exactly Is an Uncontested Divorce in Florida?

Divorces are either going to proceed as uncontested or contested, wherein one is more complex and time-consuming than the other. In an uncontested divorce – which is also known as an amicable divorce – both people involved have reached an agreement about all the legal issues that typically lead to conflict.  A mutual agreement may also be accomplished with a collaborative divorce, much like the amical divorce, but unique in its approach.

These issues may include allocation of personal property, and all matters relating to children in the marriage, such as child custody, child support and possible child relocation in the future.

Steps to Uncontested Divorce in Florida

In Florida, parties that wish to pursue an uncontested divorce must follow these procedures:

  • Negotiate the major issues of the divorce, which includes assets, custody agreements, child support, alimony and the allocation of debts.
  • Sign a Marital Settlement Agreement and Parenting Plan– This is a contract that details all the terms of the divorce, and how each major issue has been resolved. A Parenting Plan is required, where minor children are involved.
  • Go through court review – A family court judge must review the Marital Settlement Agreement and approve it. Once the judge approves the agreement, it is signed as an order of the court and a final judgment is rendered to dissolve the marriage.

Advantages of an Uncontested Divorce

When a couple chooses an uncontested divorce, they eliminate potential conflicts that often result in negative retaliation and bitterness. Furthermore, an uncontested divorce typically takes much less time to resolve than a contested divorce, and is also less expensive.

Couples who have settled all major issues in this type of divorce must create a Marital Settlement Agreement, and Parenting Plan if minor children are involved. These are legally binding documents, so any changes that either party wants to make will require a petition to the court.

Why You Should Always Have a Family Lawyer Prepare, Negotiate or Review A Marital Settlement Agreement and/or Parenting Plan

Even though uncontested divorces are designed to eliminate the acrimony that often accompanies a contested divorce, you should never sign a Marital Settlement Agreement or Parenting Plan without having an experienced uncontested divorce lawyer prepare, negotiate or review the document first.

Many legal terms have multiple interpretations, and a family lawyer will ensure that all your rights are protected, especially as it relates to any child custody or child support payments in the settlement agreement.

It’s important to note that if you sign a Marital Settlement Agreement prior to a lawyer reviewing it and then later realize you need something modified, you will have to petition the court to modify the agreement. This may create animosity, and introduce hostility into a process that had previously been harmonious.

Call Our Experienced West Palm Beach Divorce Lawyer

An uncontested divorce can save you time and money, and provide you with an agreement that is flexible enough to work for both parties. Instead of having to abide by a court order imposed by a judge that one party may find unfair, couples that choose this type of divorce have made the necessary compromises that lead to a more harmonious outcome.

If you are going through an uncontested divorce, please contact The Law Office of Eric C. Cheshire at (561) 677-8090. Our West Palm Beach divorce lawyers have the experience and the resources to help ensure that your divorce proceeds amicably.

What Our Clients Have to Say

  • “He is a wonderful lawyer and wonderful person, I always felt cared for and knew he never had anything but my best interest at heart!”

    - A. Presnell
  • A true advocate. “Eric was effective in and out of court with the Judge, the opposing counsel, and me.” Frank
  • Our experience was excellent! “The process didn’t take long, and ended in the awesome success of the legal adoption of our daughter!” Former Client
  • Wisely advised me! “We ended with great results! I have been so impressed, through this whole process, of Eric’s knowledge and expertise and high standards.” Former Client
  • Eric made my dreams come true! “Adopting my child was the most important decision of my life and Eric Cheshire was very instrumental in making this happen.” Former Client

Get Started Today

Family law issues such as divorce, child custody, and alimony are complex and difficult to navigate without the help of an experienced family law attorney. Contact us today for a personal consultation with attorney Eric C. Cheshire.

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