What is the difference between a contested and uncontested divorce?

In Virginia, a contested divorce is one in which the two spouses are unable to reach an agreement on the terms of their divorce. This can include matters such as child support, division of property and debt, and alimony. In a contested divorce, each party will be represented by a lawyer and the case will go to trial. The court will then make decisions on each of the unresolved matters and issue a final divorce decree. An uncontested divorce is one in which the parties reach an agreement on all issues prior to filing the divorce petition. This agreement is then filed with the court and, once approved, the court will issue a final divorce decree. Uncontested divorces are typically less expensive and faster than contested divorces. Both contested and uncontested divorces follow the same legal process in Virginia. The divorce begins when either spouse files the petition for divorce. The responding party then files their response. After this, there will be a waiting period and then, depending on the circumstances, either an uncontested divorce or a contested divorce will likely occur.

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