Each divorce, contested or otherwise, generally covers four main issues: the division or property, the division of debt, payment of child or spousal support, and decision-making responsibility for any children. Although it is rare that any divorce is truly “uncontested,” meaning that there are no disagreements, these disputes do not necessarily have to be resolved in a court of law.
This is what sets an uncontested divorce apart from a contested one — uncontested divorces are resolved outside of court because the two spouses are usually able to come up with a plan for resolving issues without taking their case to trial. Generally speaking, an uncontested divorce is less expensive and faster to resolve when compared to a contested one.
For most couples seeking a divorce, we recommend first trying to work out issues on mutual terms without going to court. If the uncontested divorce process does not work out, there are other options, including mediation and arbitration with or without lawyer representation. In most cases, opting for an uncontested divorce, whether or not arbitration or mediation is used, can minimize conflict and allow both parties to work towards their new normal faster.
If you and your spouse are interested in an uncontested divorce, we would be happy to tell you more about this process and what it entails. Contact us at Collaborative Divorce Waterloo Region today to find out more about our collaborative approach and how we can help you and your spouse end your marriage or separate in a beneficial manner.