If you are filing for a divorce from your spouse, it is a much easier and less stressful process when you can have an uncontested divorce. This means you and your spouse have come to an agreement on all terms, from who will keep the house, to child custody, support, and alimony. Here are some tips for settling divorce terms so your divorce can be uncontested and amicable.
Consider Your Child Custody Options
One of the biggest decisions to make is who will keep custody of your children and what the child support situation is. This is a common thing to disagree with during a divorce. If you and your spouse can decide on a mutual arrangement that benefits the children and both of your interests, you will be well on your way to an uncontested divorce. You might want to try shared custody in the beginning and see how it works out, then decide later on if other arrangements need to be made.
Separate Property Early
Another thing you need to come to an agreement on is what to do with your property. To simplify the process, begin by making a list of property you owned before getting married, which should still be your sole property. Have your spouse do the same thing. Now make a list of property you have acquired since getting into your relationship. Setting a value for your shared property can help you split it up equally and fairly. Consider each person's needs, such as the person who drives the furthest for work needing the vehicle you share. If one person has custody of the children, that might be the person who keeps the house. If you have property you can't agree on, consider selling it so nobody gets it and you split the profits.
Go Through Mediation
When you go through a mediator, a third party will work with both you and your spouse in an attempt to come to an agreement. This is often needed if you and your spouse are having difficulty coming to a compromise on your own. The mediator is not there for you or your spouse and doesn't pick sides. They will help you communicate effectively and work through your problems. This hopefully leads to an amicable divorce without going to court.
Get a Good Lawyer
Lastly, make sure you have a good divorce attorney. Get an attorney who wants to help you have an uncontested divorce, as this does make a difference. They can help you during mediation and communicate with your spouse and their lawyer to come to a compromise with any issue you have.
