What are contested and uncontested divorces?
A divorce in which the issues cannot be resolved between parties is a contested divorce.  Because of lack of agreement, the issues must be resolved through alternative dispute resolution or decided by the court.

When parties can agree on the issues of their divorce, it is an uncontested divorce.  De Renzo Durrett PLLC is provides both contested and uncontested divorces to best serve the needs of each client.

Uncontested divorce in Kentucky
An uncontested divorce is one in which the parties agree on the issues of their divorce.  The advantages of an uncontested divorce include:

• Reduced stress and emotional trauma
• Less expense
• Issues resolved more easily and more favorably to each party
• Less time devoted to resolving issues

Any and all issues can be handled in an uncontested divorce.  Together, the parties  work out an agreement acceptable to both, and the written agreement is filed with the court.  Once filed, the agreement is enforceable through the court if either party does not live up to their obligations.

In an uncontested divorce in Jefferson County, Kentucky, you are not required to appear in court.  Your lawyer drafts all necessary documents and you and your spouse sign the documents.  Once the required documents are signed and filed, the court may grant the divorce immediately providing there was a 60-day separation preceding the filing.  In uncontested divorces involving children, the court must wait 60 days after the divorce filing to grant the final decree.

Contested divorce in Kentucky
When divorcing couples do not agree on the issues forcing a contested divorce, and they cannot resolve the issues with the assistance of a mediator, they must present the issues in court and depend on the mercy of the judge to decide issues, including:

• Property/debt division
• Child custody
• Child support
• Child visitation
• Maintenance (spousal support/ alimony)

Going to court should be considered a last resort for couples and has many drawbacks including:

• The judge’s decisions may appear to be arbitrary
• Neither party is usually happy with the outcome
• Usually much more expensive than settling outside of court
• Generally a time consuming process

Contact a family law attorney you can trust
Call De Renzo Durrett at 502.420.2862 to schedule your free 30-minute initial consultation appointment, or contact us online.

De Renzo Durrett, PLLC
Attorneys at Law
1300 Clear Springs Trace
Suite 4
Louisville, Kentucky 40223
P: 502.587.3454
F: 888.400.6919