Contested vs Uncontested Divorce

 Posted on November 10, 2017 in Uncategorized

Are you nervous about the cost to file for divorce in Wisconsin?

If you've already made the difficult decision to sever a relationship with a spouse, it may help to know that costs vary widely depending on how a divorce is contested.

Regardless of whether your Wisconsin divorce is contested or uncontested, having an attorney that will represent you with confidence makes all the difference. Many clients in Dane, Columbia, Rock, Sauk, Jefferson and Green counties have chosen John T. Fields & Associates to handle their legal situation. A trusted firm with deep knowledge of the law, our attorneys do not stop until you receive the best possible settlement in a divorce case.

A divorce settlement can be reached with or without a trial. As a general rule, costs associated with uncontested divorce in Wisconsin run significantly lower than contested cases.

Wisconsin Uncontested Divorce Cases

One of the most important factors affecting the cost to file for divorce in Wisconsin is the level of cooperation between spouses. Jointly filing, the easiest way to complete an uncontested divorce, makes the entire process much more predictable, less time consuming, and far less expensive.

When a petitioner in a divorce case files singly, that party must pay any filing costs prior to serving up the divorce papers to a respondent. These costs typically run anywhere from $100 to $400. When a respondent chooses to contest the divorce, he or she faces a separate cost for filing an official response.

Depending on circumstances, the cost to file for divorce can be mitigated by respondents if they desire to waive their right to contest the charges brought about by the petitioner. Ultimately, uncontested divorce means both parties come to agreement in all key areas that may be affected by the separation, including child custody, alimony, visitation rights and division of property.

A trusted legal representative with a proven track record of success can help you determine whether or not it's in your best interest to file jointly, or waive your right to dispute charges.

Contested Divorce in Wisconsin

Of course, there are times when you need a legal team at your side, preparing your case for trial and aggressively advocating for your rights. If the terms of a divorce petition are not agreeable to you, it's probably in your best interest to contest.

While Wisconsin divorce costs are higher when a contested divorce goes to trial, there are usually quite a few important things at stake – namely, your private assets or custody of your children.

Our experienced attorneys know full well that hostilities can run high in contested divorce cases where valuable assets are involved. But you shouldn't let your spouse stop you from enjoying the full benefits of your retirement account, real estate holdings or other personal property.

When children are at stake, we make sure to act in their best interest at all times. And if your right to be with your child is challenged in any way, we take this very seriously.

There's a reason why John T. Fields is called the pit bull divorce lawyer for Madison and the surrounding area. In contested divorce cases involving children, or personal property, it often takes the attitude of a pit bull to fight for your rights during a difficult time.

Count on our experience to represent you in any divorce case. Contact us today for an initial consultation.