Most people in West Virginia go into the contested divorce process knowing that there will be many challenges to navigate. Divorce often brings about significant financial adjustments, which may mean one must find new housing arrangements, make changes in a career, and adjust weekly schedules around custody agreements. While some couples can work through these changes amicably, through an uncontested divorce, others require significant court intervention.
How a contested divorce works
The court system is vital for contested divorces where a couple cannot work out divorce terms on their own. Divorces may happen for many reasons and when those reasons involve extreme emotions, it can be difficult for both parties to agree on things like child custody, asset division, and spousal support. In a contested divorce, where the couple can’t agree on divorce issues, they must meet in court to provide evidence that will allow a judge to decide.
Contested divorces can take longer, add more stress to an already stressful situation, and cost much more. But for some divorcing couples, they are the only option. When preparing for a contested divorce, one should have all their financial paperwork, marriage-related documents, and other evidence. This may include witness testimony and photographs in some cases.
Contested divorces require sound legal assistance
When one is going through a contested divorce, advice from an experienced West Virginia family law attorney can provide all the information needed to help one make the right decisions. Negotiating issues like child custody and the division of assets can bring out the worst in some people. An attorney can help one understand how to make the best decisions based on their specific circumstances and provide guidance through the entire divorce process.
