Going through a divorce can be challenging. You are required to make crucial decisions, including the most appropriate process for your case. Contested divorce, which involves a judge making decisions, is one of the options, but is it suitable for you?
This guide discusses four situations in which contested divorce is beneficial:
Disagreements
If you and your spouse can’t agree on crucial matters, such as property division, spousal support or child custody/support, if you have kids, consider choosing contested divorce. Further, if you believe your spouse has unfair requests, a judge will analyze the issue competently and offer a fair decision.
Cover-up of assets
For community property to be divided fairly, all parties should list all the assets and debts. If you believe the list provided by your spouse is wrong, and they may be using tricks to conceal assets, a contested divorce may help you. Litigation provides discovery tools for hidden assets.
Besides, contested divorce takes time, which is often viewed as a disadvantage, but it allows you to realize some assets are missing and raise questions.
Other connections
If you and your spouse had other connections, besides marriage, for example, business partnerships, your divorce may be more complicated. A contested divorce gives you time to double-check every document from the other side. As a result, you can identify mistakes and act accordingly.
Abuse
People in marriages that involve physical and/or psychological abuse may not benefit significantly from agreements outside of court. The abusive party may interfere with the wishes of the other spouse. However, with a contested divorce, the judge will assess the case carefully and make informed decisions.
Although some people shy away from contested divorce, it’s beneficial in different situations. You should learn more about your case to determine if this option will work for you.
