Those in unhappy marriages often consider ending their marriages. However, many couples are reluctant to dissolve their marriage due to the potential of a dragged-out and costly legal battle that involves multiple court hearings and a trial. Fortunately, this doesn’t always have to be the case. If you and your spouse can collaborate to agree on the terms of your divorce, it is possible to avoid going to court. However, if you are unable to work together effectively, litigation may become necessary to iron out issues of child custody, child support, spousal support, and property division. If you want to avoid the hassle and expense of court battles in your divorce, keep reading and contact an adept Suffolk County Divorce Attorney who can help you consider alternative divorce routes that can help you end your marriage without going to court.
Can I get a divorce without going to court?
Fortunately, several divorce routes may allow you to end your marriage without going to court. However, it is critical to note that with specific divorce routes, you may still have to show up briefly in court, but you will not have to undergo a trial. For instance, if you pursue an uncontested divorce, meaning you and your spouse can agree on the terms that will apply to the termination of marriage, you may have to appear before the court for your final hearing. Opting for a contested divorce, meaning you and your spouse are unable to agree, it will be necessary for you to attend numerous court hearings to settle interim matters and eventually proceed to trial.
If you want to avoid a costly and time-consuming legal battle, you may find it beneficial to turn to divorce mediation. If you and your spouse are open to the process and willing to compromise, divorce mediation can save you substantial time and money as you can avoid litigation. In divorce mediation, you and your spouse will meet with a neutral third-party mediator who will help you resolve your disputed issues throughout a few sessions. The main goal of divorce mediation is to help couples reach a mutual agreement on the terms that will apply to the termination of marriage. After you have reached a mutually beneficial agreement, the terms agreed-upon become legally binding once both parties sign the agreement.
What other alternatives exist?
Moreover, another alternative dispute resolution you can pursue is a collaborative divorce. In a collaborative divorce, you and your spouse will each be represented by an attorney, and you will participate in sessions similar to mediation. However, there is no mediator involved. Both parties’ legal counsel will work together to help resolve contested issues and work toward a mutually beneficial divorce agreement. If the process is successful, you will not have to undergo litigation or a trial.
If you want to end your marriage and avoid a trial, contact a skilled Suffolk County divorce attorney from The Law Offices of Susan A. Kassel, P.C., who can help you negotiate a favorable settlement.
