When you and your spouse are ready to get divorced, finding ways to cut down on the red tape and move the process forward faster can be a priority. Filing for an uncontested divorce can be a great choice for couples who are largely in agreement on the terms and conditions of the divorce. It’s faster, cheaper, and typically less stressful than filing for a traditional divorce. Your Virginia uncontested divorce attorney will be able to help you through the process, but there are still a few things you can do to make your uncontested divorce go more smoothly and resolve faster.
Get Your Financial Documents Together Now
Before you meet with your uncontested divorce lawyer, gather your financial documents and encourage your spouse to do the same. These documents could include:
- Loan statements
- Bank account statements
- Investment account statements
- Retirement account statements
- Property titles
- Tax filings
- Credit card statements
The goal is to ensure that you, your spouse, and your attorney have a clear picture of the financial assets and liabilities that you need to divide. If you’re not sure what to provide, your attorney will help you identify the key documents to bring with you to your appointment.
Create a List of Your Wants
The point of an uncontested divorce is that you and your spouse are in charge of creating and agreeing to the terms of your divorce. There’s no court oversight needed, which means you’ll need to have an idea of what you want the divorce to look like when you meet with your lawyer.
Consider creating a list of your wants. For example, if you have a favorite piece of artwork that you want to keep, make a note of it. If you want your spouse to get the house or retain the lease on your current home, specify that on your list.
Have a Conversation With Your Spouse if Possible
If you and your spouse are on civil terms, consider having a conversation about the terms you’d each like to see before you meet with your attorney. This can help you both be on the same page and could make it easier to identify terms that you’ll need help coming to a consensus on. This gives you a plan and can guide your meetings with your attorney so they’re more productive and you’re able to accomplish more during each session.
If you and your spouse aren’t comfortable speaking to each other without a mediator or legal professional in the room, that’s fine. Just be sure to communicate your concerns with your attorney before your appointment.
Think About Your Parenting Plan Ahead of Time
One of the hardest parts of getting divorced is working out a custody agreement and parenting plan with your spouse. You and your spouse know your preferences and your child best. Try to work out a rough parenting plan with your spouse before you meet with your attorney. It doesn’t have to be incredibly detailed—it just needs to give you a starting point that you can fine-tune and work out with your attorney’s help.
Work With an Attorney Who Specializes in Uncontested Divorce
One of the best ways to speed up your uncontested divorce is to work with an experienced Virginia uncontested divorce attorney. Lawyers who specialize in these types of divorces understand the nuances and are uniquely equipped to help couples move through the process as quickly as possible.
Schedule a Consultation Today
If you and your spouse are interested in filing for an uncontested divorce, follow these tips. They’ll help you prepare for your first meeting with your Virginia uncontested divorce attorney and could make it easier for you and your spouse to complete your divorce.
At AC Rieman Law, our team is here to help. Contact us today to schedule a free consultation and see how an experienced uncontested divorce lawyer can help you through your divorce quickly.