Are you thinking about getting a divorce but not sure what exactly it entails or how to start the process?

One of the most stressful experiences that anyone can go through, getting a divorce can feel completely overwhelming, especially if you have children together.

That being said, the more information you have helping you to get the ball rolling, the better you will be able to navigate and manage the situation.

You can discover everything you need about getting a divorce in the United States below.

Filing for divorce in your state

When it comes to getting a divorce, each state is different and has its own forms that you will need to complete. You can obtain these forms yourself from your local courthouse, or you can enlist the services of Divorce lawyers to help you with this process.

If you are the person who is filing for divorce, you will fill in these forms and then they will be served to your spouse, who will then be able to respond to your petition.

Certain states require that you try mediation before you are able to obtain a divorce. If you are unable to settle, then a trial will be scheduled, and a judge will hear from both parties and then make a decision.

What are grounds for divorce?

Again, states have different requirements for divorce, so you will need to check your specific state’s laws before you file for a divorce. That being said, most states will grant a divorce based on the following reasons:

• Adultery
• Imprisonment
• Legal separation
• Cruel or inhumane treatment

You must provide proof of one or more of the above to use these reasons for divorce. You can also ask for a no-fault divorce in all states which means that neither spouse is specifically to blame.

Do I need to hire a divorce attorney?

You do not need to hire a divorce attorney to file for divorce in the United States as you can legally do this on your own. However, many people feel more comfortable enlisting the services of a professional Rolling Meadows family lawyer (or a family lawyer anywhere else) especially when it comes to financial agreements and custody of children.

If you are able to agree on the terms of the divorce with your spouse, then you can simply use one attorney to sort out the paperwork for you. Alternatively, if you are not in agreement, you may feel better hiring a separate divorce attorney.

How long does a divorce take?

The time it takes to complete a divorce depends upon a number of factors, such as your local court’s schedule and whether you and your spouse can agree on the terms of the divorce.

That being said, in most cases, a divorce can be completed in under one year.

How much does a divorce cost?

The cost of a divorce depends on how complex your case is and whether or not you decide to hire an attorney. If you choose to file for divorce yourself, you will only need to pay to file the papers, which can cost as little as a few hundred dollars.

Jane