The Advantages of an Uncontested Divorce over a Contested Divorce

Let's face it, divorce is not usually a pleasant experience. It's an unsettling time in your life, and can be much worse if there are children involved. Depending on the reason for the divorce, you may not feel like being particularly civil to your soon-to-be ex; but it makes sense to keep things polite and sensible if you can.

If you, and the other person involved, are able to do this, you should be able to opt for an uncontested divorce. This does not necessarily mean that the divorce has no issues, it means that you are able to sit down with both of your attorneys and work things out. There are several advantages to be had from making this happen.

What is an uncontested divorce?

It helps to have an understanding of what an uncontested divorce is. This type of divorce involves both parties, usually with some legal support, sitting down and agreeing the terms of the divorce. In order to be able to do this, both parties need to be able to talk about different aspects of the situation, in an adult and sensible manner. If couples are able to do this, it makes the whole divorce process a lot easier to get through for everyone involved, including children. As children often suffer the most impact from divorce, this is important.

On the other hand, if there is no prospect of this happening, a contested divorce will be necessary. This can involve going to divorce court and is a lengthy and costly process.

The benefits of choosing an uncontested divorce

If you are thinking of an uncontested divorce as an option for you, there are several benefits that you can get.

• Less costly

At a time when finances are an important consideration, you cannot underestimate the benefit of saving money. Divorce is never especially cheap, but an uncontested divorce is far more affordable than a contested one.

• Speedier process

If you want the divorce over and done with, so that you can get on with your life, an uncontested divorce is the best option. There is no court process involved and it's possible for an uncontested divorce to be finalized in just a few weeks. Of course, this depends on individual circumstances.

• Less mess and more privacy

It's likely that you do not want to create any more mess than already exists. Getting further embroiled in massive dramas does not benefit anyone. It's just likely to make you feel even worse. An uncontested divorce can usually be dealt with more amicably, so there is less chance of further verbal mud slinging. The dealings in an uncontested divorce are also private whereas court proceedings in a contested divorce are a matter of public record.

There is no doubt that, if possible, an uncontested divorce is the best option. It's a quicker and less costly process that tends to be completed in a more amiable manner, meaning it's easier for everyone to move on.