One of the things you’re dreading about getting a divorce is having to spend a lot of time in court. Divorce is already an emotionally draining and time-consuming process, and the prospect of also having to attend courtroom hearings is intimidating you.
Before you file for a divorce, determine whether or not you actually have to go to court, as well as ways to stay out of court as much as possible.
Do You Have to Go to Court for a Divorce?
In Ohio, you do have to go to court when you get a divorce, even if it’s an uncontested divorce. While you could file for divorce by not going to court in person, you’ll need to go to court and attend a final hearing at the end of the process. This applies whether you are the spouse filing for the divorce or not. During the hearing, you’ll be asked basic questions, and it usually won’t take longer than 15 minutes.
If you have a contested divorce, then you’ll likely end up in court more than once while you hash out all the details. You may also go more than once if you’re working on child custody and support issues.
Staying Out of Court
If you can, you might want to find a mediator to help you work out your divorce so you can stay out of court as much as possible and come up with an agreement with your spouse. For this, you’d file for an uncontested divorce. The agreement will cover things like:
- The division of assets
- The division of debts
- Child custody
- Child support
- Alimony
Keep in mind that while you and your spouse may agree on these issues, the court still has to approve them. Once you get to court, things could end up changing.
Having to Go to Court
Unfortunately, if you have a contentious relationship with your spouse, it might not be possible to file for an uncontested divorce. You could always try a mediator and see if you and your spouse can work it out, but court might be the only option.
Hiring a Divorce Lawyer
Whether you are filing for a contested divorce or an uncontested divorce, seeking out advice and representation from a divorce lawyer is going to be helpful. With an uncontested divorce, you could speed up the filing process and come to favorable terms of agreement for you and your spouse.
And if you have a contested divorce, your lawyer will attempt to make it go as smoothly as possible and make sure you get what you deserve. They will be your fierce advocate and be in your corner during your time of need. Your divorce lawyer will also prepare you for court and negotiate with the other side.
When looking for a divorce lawyer in Ohio, seek out one who has years of experience, is responsive to your needs, and has the time to take your case on. At your initial meeting, make sure you ask about how the fees work, so you know you afford to hire a lawyer. If the fees seem high, you can always ask for a payment plan or some other type of arrangement.
Get in Touch With Richard P. Arthur
Richard P. Arthur, Attorney at Law, can help you file for divorce. You can call 937-254-3738 for a consultation. He has more than three decades of experience helping clients in Dayton and Trotwood, as well as Montgomery, Greene, Miami, Clark, and Warren counties.