If you're facing an up-and-coming divorce, it's fairly likely that you aren't looking forward to the proceedings and would let to get them over with as soon as possible. While there are a number of things you cannot control during the process, there are a few things that you can do to ensure the process moves as quickly and efficiently as possible. While your attorney will have some great tips for you to consider, also be sure to take a look at the three suggestions below.
1. If Your Ex is Dragging Their Feet, File Motions
Unfortunately, you may be facing a reluctant soon-to-be spouse who is just looking to make your life more difficult by drawing out the divorce process. Fortunately, there are some things you can do to speed it up.
One way your ex-spouse may aim to make your life more difficult is by ignoring the papers you've served them with. While this can certainly be a pain, there is one bright side to this tactic, and that's a little something called a default judgement. Essentially, if your ex doesn't respond to the serve notice within the specified amount of time, a judge can rule in your favor. Did your spouse respond to the notice but is now delaying every deposition and mediation session? Speak with your divorce attorney about denying your spouse's requests to cancel court appearances, and even ask them about specific motions you may be able to file in your state to put a stop to your ex's antics.
2. Be Ahead of Schedule
While you can't control the actions of your soon-to-be ex, you can ensure that things go quickly and smoothly on your side. The best way to do so is to be ahead of schedule.
For example, during a divorce, there's a number of important documents that will need to be provided to your divorce attorney, and there's a lot of paperwork you'll be expected to fill out. The sooner you can get these documents to your attorney, and the sooner you can fill out all necessary paperwork and have it filed, the smoother your divorce proceedings will be. So, ask your attorney for a list of documentation that you can provide them right now. This will reduce the number of times your attorney has to get into contact with you (which will save you money), and it will also reduce the number of hours spent on communications and document serving.
3. Suggest Mediation
If you are dealing with a soon-to-be ex who is looking to get through the divorce proceedings as quickly as you are, your best bet is to request mediation services for any issues you can not decide on amongst yourselves.
Mediation is a great way to hash out any problems you think will arise during the divorce proceedings, and it can significantly speed up the process. Mediation can be helpful for a number of different issues, including child custody schedules, child support and alimony payments, the split of property, and so much more.
To learn more about your upcoming divorce proceedings and how to get the ball rolling, consult with a knowledgeable divorce attorney now.
