Uncontested Divorce - We Agree On Everything?

In Massachusetts, there are two broad categories of divorce: contested and uncontested. An uncontested divorce is defined as "both people agree about everything they file." 

This might lead many couples in the midst of marital conflict - perhaps fighting about more issues than they agree upon - to think uncontested divorce isn't right for them. In fact, the term "uncontested divorce" and its standard definition are somewhat misleading and can lead divorcing spouses to prematurely limit their options.

In this excellent blog posting Rackham Karlsson address two common myths about uncontested divorce:

Myth #1: Uncontested divorce is only for couples who agree on everything.

In fact, many uncontested divorces involve a period of deliberation and negotiation about important issues in the divorce, such as asset division, child support and/or alimony, and parenting schedules
 
Myth #2: Uncontested divorce is easy.

Getting to the point where you can file for an uncontested divorce can be hard, especially if there are children involved. You are taking a family's resources — time, money, energy — and dividing them between two households. Nobody will emerge from the process unaffected.

If you or someone you know could benefit from assistance in decision making during a divorce, contact Falmouth Mediation at 508-566-4159 for a free, no-obligation, private, confidential consultation.  We will be happy to discuss the key details of your situation, address any concerns, and help you decide if divorce mediation would be beneficial.