Reasons Why Uncontested Divorces Change to Contested Divorces

Divorcing spouses who wish to to enter into an uncontested divorce process, often do so without the support of a divorce attorney. This choice is generally focused on saving money and avoiding unnecessary conflict. Although it’s not required to have legal representation in any divorce proceeding, it is highly beneficial to have a divorce attorney guide you through the process. It’s important to understand that uncontested divorces can and do shift to contested divorces. Listed below are some of the most common reasons why an uncontested divorce might change into a contested divorce process, keeping in mind the matters that must be settled include equitable distribution, non-martial property division, alimony, child custody and child support when applicable.

One or both parties have fundamental disagreements over a major aspect of the settlement, such as paying alimony or timesharing and custody arrangements
One or both spouses have become unwilling or unable to come to terms through mediation on any one matter. Very often, both parties may agree on the majority of terms in the marital settlement agreement, but then refuse to agree on just one issue.
Either or both parties may become combative during the process of mediation and negotiations, causing an impasse on reaching a full settlement
One party may fail to respond to court documents
New circumstances or information may arise that causes one or both parties to withdraw their original agreement. Examples of such might be the sudden knowledge of hidden assets or dissipation of assets.

It is most important for divorcing spouses who wish not to contest their divorce to understand that it only takes one dispute over any one matter to shift their uncontested divorce to a contested divorce. This means that they will move into a contested divorce process, including discovery, additional mediation and litigation.

How You Can Ensure a Successful Outcome in an Uncontested Divorce in Tampa Bay

Hiring an uncontested divorce attorney in Tampa Bay is a first best step to ensure that your uncontested divorce remains uncontested. Our Tampa uncontested divorce attorneys are skilled negotiators, providing calm, focused legal solutions and representation that can help you to remain focused on reaching a final settlement. However, it is also important to protect your best interests and secure future. Although hiring a Tampa divorce attorney doesn’t guarantee you’ll meet all of your goals, should you reach an impasse with your spouse, you will be better equipped to confront the contested divorce process that would follow. If you and your spouse do agree on a settlement, errors in your marital settlement agreements and paperwork can lead to future problems or disputes. This can be frustrating and costly.

Contact Nilo J Sanchez & Associates PA

If you have questions about an uncontested divorce and how we can best serve you, please reach out to us to schedule an affordable divorce attorney consultation.

Telephone: (813) 879-4600

Michelle C Owen specializes in uncontested divorces in Hillsborough, Pasco and Pinellas County, FL

We respect our clients’ preferences and can accommodate you should you prefer to hire a male divorce or custody lawyer or female uncontested divorce attorney in Tampa Bay. Call or send a secure message below to consult with Attorney Owen or any of the experienced Tampa family law attorneys at Nilo J Sanchez & Associates PA.

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