Divorce: You Have Options
Many people considering divorce do not realize that they have several options available to them. Our attorneys are well-versed in all the methods of obtaining a divorce and can help you determine which method is best for you.
At the Law Office of Marta J. Papa, we believe that, just as no two people are the same, no two cases should be handled in the same manner.
The Four Methods of Divorce
Divorce is never easy, but a skilled divorce attorney can make all the difference in the cost, length and outcome of your divorce proceedings. At the Law Office of Marta J. Papa, our lawyers will resolve your divorce using one of the following four methods:
- Non-Contested Divorce: In a non-contested divorce, also known as a "kitchen table divorce", one spouse retains an attorney who represents only that spouse. The spouses agree on how to divide all property and on child custody matters. The attorney draws up the papers in accordance with the spouses' decisions and files all necessary documents and represents one spouse at the divorce hearing.
- Contested Divorce: In a contested divorce, husband and wife cannot agree on how to divide their property or custody of the children. Both husband and wife retain separate attorneys who negotiate for them in order to settle the case. If a settlement cannot be reached, the case is set for trial.
- Mediation: A mediated divorce is one in which the divorcing couple attend sessions with a trained mediator who facilitates their decision-making. At least one party must hire an outside attorney to file the completed mediation documents at the courthouse. The other party has the option of hiring his or her own attorney to review the completed mediation documents before filing them at the courthouse.
- Collaborative Law: Collaborative law differs from mediation in that each spouse hires his or her own advocate from a pool of collaborative law attorneys, rather than sharing one mediator. The clients and attorneys use four-way meetings and negotiation to resolve all dissolution issues without resorting to litigation.
If you have questions about the different methods of divorce in St. Louis, Missouri, call the Law Office of Marta J. Papa at 1-888-713-9308 or contact us online.
