Contested Divorce Lawyer in Columbia

What is contested divorce?

Before the court will finalize your divorce, it is necessary for you and your spouse to make arrangements regarding every aspect of the situation, including child custody and visitation, child support, property division and the payment of alimony. If you two are unable to come to agreements out of court, the judge will have the duty of issuing rulings on each issue, and you will be legally required to abide by the resulting court orders. In such a situation, it is in your best interests to retain dedicated legal representation to fight for your rights and help you secure a settlement which works in your favor.

Let Us Fight for You

The first step in your contested divorce is to contact us at Masella Law Firm, P.A. for an initial consultation, to discuss your concerns and your goals in the divorce and to learn more about your legal rights. We have years of experience and a proven track record of success, and we know how important it is for you to safeguard your personal interests in the situation. The outcome of the divorce process may have a significant impact on your future, and we will work diligently to help you reach the conclusion in the best possible position.

What happens in a contested divorce?

A Columbia divorce attorney from our firm will help you outline the terms you want to seek in divorce, including them in a document known as the "complaint," which will then be served on your spouse, who will have 30 days to file an answer and counter-complaint with terms. The courts prefer to avoid litigation whenever possible in a divorce, so you may be ordered to pursue mediation services for alternative dispute resolution.