Westford Uncontested Divorce Lawyer

Divorce Lawyer in Middlesex County, MA

Uncontested divorce is a way to dissolve a marriage without litigation. It can be a more cost-effective and less stressful way to end a marriage. It is also usually a quicker process than a contested divorce. The Westford uncontested divorce attorneys at Ryder & Phelps can provide you with the legal guidance necessary to complete the process.

Call (978) 381-1660 or contact us online to get started with a consultation with our experienced Westford uncontested divorce lawyers.

What Is an Uncontested Divorce?

In an uncontested divorce, the spouses agree on every aspect of the marital dissolution. They agree on how to divide assets, debts, and property. They also agree on spousal support, child support, and child custody. The court will review the settlement agreement drafted by the spouses and their attorneys. If the judge approves the agreement, he or she will issue a divorce decree.

Uncontested divorce is not an option for all couples. It is only appropriate if:

• The spouses agree on all issues.
• The spouses have been married for fewer than five years.
• The spouses do not have any children together.
• The spouses do not own any real estate together.
• The spouses do not have any retirement benefits.
• The spouses have a combined total of less than $25,000 in assets.
• The spouses have a combined total of less than $25,000 in debts.
• Neither spouse is seeking spousal support.

When is an Uncontested Divorce Not Recommended?

An uncontested divorce is not always the best option for every situation. Here are some scenarios where an uncontested divorce may not be recommended:

• Disagreements on key issues (e.g., child custody, property division, alimony).
• Unequal power dynamics, including financial or emotional control.
• Presence of domestic violence or abuse.
• Unclear or complicated financial situations (e.g., business assets, debts).
• One spouse is unwilling to cooperate or unresponsive.
• Unresolved emotional issues prevent meaningful negotiation.
• Suspected hiding of assets or financial information by one spouse.
• Concerns about future modifications (e.g., custody or support changes).
• Disparity in legal knowledge or resources between spouses.

How Long Does an Uncontested Divorce Take in Massachusetts?

An uncontested divorce is a much quicker process than a contested divorce. In general, an uncontested divorce typically takes around 3 to 4 months to complete, assuming both parties are in agreement and all requirements are met. However, the length of time it takes to get an uncontested divorce in Massachusetts will depend on several factors.

Here are a few factors that can impact the length of time it takes to get an uncontested divorce:

• How long it takes to complete the divorce papers. You will need to complete several divorce forms. It can take time to gather all the necessary information and complete the forms.
• How long it takes to have your spouse served. You will need to have a third party serve your spouse with a copy of the divorce papers. If you do not know where your spouse is, it can take time to find him or her.
• How long it takes to get a hearing date. The judge will need to schedule a hearing. The length of time it takes to get a hearing date will depend on the court's schedule.
• How long it takes for the judge to issue a divorce decree. The judge will review your divorce papers. If the judge approves your divorce papers, he or she will issue a divorce decree. The judge may need to review other cases before reviewing your divorce papers.

How Much Does an Uncontested Divorce Cost in Massachusetts?

Uncontested divorce is usually a more cost-effective way to end a marriage than a contested divorce. However, the cost of an uncontested divorce in Massachusetts will depend on several factors.

Here are a few factors that can impact the cost of an uncontested divorce:

• Whether you hire a divorce lawyer. If you hire a divorce lawyer, you will need to pay for his or her legal fees. You will also need to pay for any court fees.
• How long it takes to complete the divorce papers. You will need to complete several divorce forms. If you hire a divorce lawyer, he or she can help you complete the forms. You may also need to pay for any court fees.
• Whether you and your spouse agree on all issues. You and your spouse will need to agree on how to divide assets, debts, and property. You will also need to agree on spousal support, child support, and child custody.

How Our Attorneys Help to File for an Uncontested Divorce in Massachusetts

Uncontested divorce is a less stressful way to end a marriage than a contested divorce. However, it is not an option for all couples. The spouses must agree on how to divide assets, debts, and property. They must also agree on spousal support, child support, and child custody. The court will review the settlement agreement drafted by the spouses and their attorneys. If the judge approves the agreement, he or she will issue a divorce decree.

Our experienced Westford uncontested divorce attorneys can guide you through the process from start to finish. We can help you:

• Complete the necessary divorce papers
• File the divorce papers with the court
• Have your spouse served
• Wait for your spouse's response
• Complete the necessary divorce forms
• Attend the divorce hearing

Call (978) 381-1660 or contact us online to get started with a consultation with our experienced Westford uncontested divorce lawyers.