What is an Uncontested Divorce?

May 26, 2023 | uncontested divorce in Palm Beach County, collaborative divorce in Palm Beach County, mindful divorce
By: Chad Layton, Esq.

Uncontested divorce can mean many different things. The common thread in all uncontested divorce options is the agreement that you will not fight in court. Once this basis principle is established, you are on the road to a divorce process that will save you time and money.

This decision will also save you and your family from unnecessary emotional damage that accompanies divorce litigation.

Additionally, you will maintain control over your divorce. You will have the opportunity to treat your spouse with respect. You will maintain your privacy.

Here is a short summary of uncontested divorce options in Palm Beach County:

Kitchen Table Divorce – You and your spouse can sit down at your kitchen table and write up an agreement to resolve all of the issues in your divorce. I recommend this option if you do not have any legal questions that need to be answered, and you do not have any property that needs to be addressed.
Mediation – You and your spouse can hire one neutral mediator to meet with you for a couple of hours. The mediator will help you to write out your agreement, and he or she will help you to consider compromises on areas that you do not agree. The mediator cannot answer any legal questions for you or your spouse. The mediator cannot advise you or your spouse if the agreement is fair. The mediator cannot tell you if you should be seeking more or less in your divorce. The mediator can only help you come to an agreement. I recommend this option if you have a combined annual income below $100k. The clerk of court family division offers their services to assist with mediation. Here is a link to their office: 15^th Circuit Mediation
Collaborative Divorce – You and your spouse can choose to work a specially trained collaborative divorce lawyers to help you craft a custom written agreement that resolves all of the legal issues in your marriage. Your attorney will guide you through the process and make sure that you understand each step in your divorce. Your attorney will be your advocate to make sure that you receive a fair settlement. You will attend 3-4 settlement meetings with your attorney over a period of 3-6 months. Here are links to additional information on collaborative divorce: collaborative divorce and FACP and Mindful Divorce