Contested vs. Uncontested Divorces

Virginia Beach Marriage Dissolution Attorneys

Many people delay getting a divorce because they fear the unknown and are worried about the time and cost. They would rather live unhappily in their current marriage than face an uncertain future decided by a judge. When faced with these difficult circumstances, it is important to know that you do have options.

At Joseph W. Hood, Jr. & Associates, we favor the collaboration and open communication of uncontested divorce over the prolonged courtroom drama and child custody battles of contested divorce. We strive to help our clients make decisions for the future, encouraging mutually acceptable agreements whenever feasible.

Contact our Divorce Attorneys at 757-340-5800
• Caring Lawyers Who Aggressively Protect Your Interests and Help You Move Forward

The Benefits of an Uncontested Divorce

An uncontested divorce is not for everyone. It is reserved for those couples who can agree on all major issues regarding the dissolution of marriage. We strongly advise our clients to consider uncontested divorce, as it offers many benefits:

• Clients have more control over the outcome of their divorce
• Clients make important decisions regarding child custody, visitation and property division
• Clients enjoy an amicable relationship with their ex-spouse, rather than continued fighting
• Children often adjust easier to divorce because the parents are less adversarial
• Uncontested divorce is often less costly and takes less time than divorce litigation

Our lawyers will meet with you to discuss all relevant divorce issues and prepare a comprehensive separation agreement that carefully outlines all of the agreed upon terms. Your separation agreement will then need to be finalized in a brief hearing before a judge.

Choosing the Best Option for You

Our knowledgeable family law attorneys have extensive experience with both contested and uncontested divorces. When you sit down with us for a consultation, we will listen to your needs and concerns to help decide which divorce method will best achieve your goals. We will then take the time to explain all the details so you will know exactly what to expect. If you choose to retain our services, your initial consultation fee will be waived.

Contact a Skilled Family Law Attorney

A large percentage of the divorces we handle start out as uncontested divorces. However, it is not uncommon for a spouse to alter their position on important issues such as custody or property settlement. This can create hostility among the parties and necessitate a contested divorce. In the event this occurs, we are readily able to aggressively protect our client's rights throughout the litigation process.

Even if you and your spouse cannot agree on all of the issues, agreement on some issues will simplify the divorce and reduce cost and stress.  We will help you optimize your position. 

To learn more about uncontested divorce, please schedule a confidential consultation by calling us at 757-340-5800 or contacting us online.

Joseph W. Hood, Jr. & Associates • Convenient Beach Tower Location • Major Credit Cards Accepted