3 Essential Divorce Procedure Questions

Divorce is one of the hardest legal events anyone will ever face. When you divorce, you face losses that are not just emotional, but financial and legal as well. This blog series will help answer some basic questions you might have about divorce.

You know one thing -- your marriage is coming to an end. After that, there's a seemingly endless list of questions and precious few answers. And most of those unanswered questions center on the paperwork and procedure involved with filing for divorce.

While every divorce is unique and will present its own set of questions, there are some answers that will apply to most divorce cases. Here are three of the biggest divorce procedure questions, and a few answers as well.

1. Who Should File for Divorce First?

Does it matter if you beat your soon-to-be-ex to the courthouse? For the most part, divorce courts treat both parties equally, no matter who filed the papers, and will generally make the same decisions when it comes to property, custody, and support. But there are a few scenarios where filing for divorce first could be an advantage. Read about why you don't want to be blindsided by a divorce filing.

2. Can I Serve Divorce Papers Myself?

Not all spouses are keen on the idea of divorce. So if yours is avoiding process servers, do you just need to wait to get divorced? And even if you can serve the papers yourself, is that even a good idea? Find out if you've got options on serving divorce papers, and if you can get a divorce without handing the papers to your spouse yourself.

3. Do You Have to Go to Court for a Divorce?

Some people avoid a divorce because they're intimidated or afraid of appearing in court. Who wants to air their dirty laundry in front of a judge, and pay all that money for the privilege? But depending on the circumstances, you may not need to go through lengthy court proceedings to get a divorce. Learn about different ways to legally dissolve your marriage, and options to resolving divorce disputes.

While there are some general rules to divorce, your best source for information about your divorce case is going to be an experienced divorce attorney in your area. Contact one today.

Related Resources:

• Dealing with a divorce? Get your case reviewed for free now. (Consumer Injury - Family)
• Is It Divorce Season Yet? (FindLaw's Law and Daily Life)
• Will Adultery Affect Child Custody? (FindLaw's Law and Daily Life)
• Who Keeps the Family Car After a Divorce? (FindLaw's Law and Daily Life)