Basic Steps in Obtaining a Divorce

There is a lot that goes into the process of filing for a divorce. Here we go over six basic steps to obtaining a divorce, from start to finish.

1. Filing your Forms

First, you will decide if you and your spouse are signing together or if one of you will be completing the forms to start the action. Next you will file the action and pay the appropriate fees.

2. Serve Copies of the Documents

The spouse must be provided with copies of the summons, petition, confidential petition addendum, and proposed parenting plan.

3. Temporary Hearing

You can request a temporary hearing before the Family Court Commissioner if you and your spouse cannot agree on the following:

• Child custody
• Child support
• Spousal support
• Payment of bills
• Use of car/other personal property
• Use of family residence

If you request this hearing, you must attend. A Temporary Order will be issued when attending the hearing. This step can be skipped if you and your spouse deem it unnecessary.

4. If minor children are involved, complete any required parenting programs and file required Parenting Plans

5. Pre-Trial Conference

Complete these documents before final hearing:

• Marital Settlement Agreement (if you agree on everything) or Proposed Marital Settlement Order (if you and your spouse do not agree)
• Financial Disclosure Statements
• Findings of Fact, Conclusions of Law, and Judgment of Divorce
• Vital Statistics Form

6. Attend Final Trial and Finalize Divorce

Attend the final hearing and complete post-trial documents.

At Hart Law Office, we understand each situation is different, and the process may vary from case to case. We will put our best effort to make this process go smoothly for you and your spouse. Contact us to schedule an appointment.