Divorce Process Explained: Your Comprehensive Guide

When facing the difficult decision of ending a marriage, understanding the divorce process is crucial. At Siegel Family Law, we specialize in family law and are here to guide you through every step of the process with care and expertise.

The first step in the divorce process is filing a petition. This legal document formally initiates the divorce proceedings and outlines the grounds for divorce. Once the petition is filed, the next step is serving the petition to the other party. This can be done through a process server or certified mail. After the petition is served, the next step is typically temporary orders. Temporary orders address important issues such as child custody, child support, spousal support, and the use of marital assets while the divorce is pending. These orders are put in place to provide stability and structure during the divorce process. Next comes the discovery phase, where both parties exchange information and documents related to finances, assets, and liabilities. This phase is essential for reaching a fair and equitable settlement. Mediation or negotiation often follows the discovery phase. This is an opportunity for both parties to sit down with a neutral third party and attempt to reach agreements on key issues such as property division, child custody, and spousal support. If an agreement is reached, it is formalized into a marital settlement agreement. If mediation is unsuccessful, the case may proceed to trial. At trial, both parties present evidence and arguments to a judge, who will make decisions on unresolved issues. It is essential to have a skilled attorney by your side during the trial to advocate for your rights and best interests. Once a judgment is entered by the court, the divorce is final. However, post-judgment issues may arise, such as modifications to child custody or support agreements. It is important to have a knowledgeable attorney to assist with any post-judgment matters that may arise. Navigating the divorce process can be overwhelming, but with the right legal team by your side, you can feel confident and supported every step of the way. At Siegel Family Law, we are dedicated to providing compassionate and effective representation for all of our clients.