Contested Divorce
It is not always the case that couples can agree on every issue in their divorce. Most of the time, this does not mean that a judge will ultimately decide the important issues in the divorce. Usually, the parties just need time to negotiate the contested issues and possibly attend mediation. Although this scenario is not ideal, it is sometimes unavoidable due to circumstances beyond your control.
Our Kentucky Contested Divorce Service
Although it is ideal to keep your divorce uncontested, we can help you with your contested Kentucky divorce. Our goal is our client’s success. From our first meeting, we make certain that we understand your desired position at the conclusion of your divorce. We then plot a course of action and strive to achieve all of your goals. Throughout the process we maintain unobstructed lines of communication with our clients.
Our Fee: Contested Divorce
Unfortunately, contested divorces do not lend themselves to a flat fee structure. Each case is so unique that an hourly fee structure is most appropriate. However, we structured our contested divorce fees in a manner that reduces the cost to our clients. Below you will find our hourly rate, retainer information, and the unique features of our fee structure.
- Hourly rate: $275 per hour
- Retainer: Determined on a case-by-case basis.
How To Determine If Your Divorce Is Contested
Below are some characteristics of a contested divorce. Just because your divorce has some of the characteristics does not mean that it is contested.
Contested Divorce
- You and your spouse cannot agree about several issues in your divorce
- You and your spouse cannot agree about child custody, visitation, and child support
- You and your spouse cannot agree about some or any of the issues mentioned above
- You don’t and can’t speak to your spouse
- You have been abused by your spouse
- You can’t locate your spouse
- You want to “get even” or punish your spouse
- Your spouse wants to “get even” or punish you
- You can’t stand to look at or be in the same room with your spouse
- Your spouse has stolen or misused significant amounts of marital property
- There are some issues on which you are just not willing to compromise
The Kentucky Contested Divorce Process
The following is a general timeline in a contested divorce:
- Initial client conference
- Prepare pleadings
- Meet to review and sign pleadings
- File pleadings
- Serve respondent
- Discovery (gather evidence)
- Pre-trial conference
- Prepare for trial
- Trial (before judge not jury)
- Review ruling
- Make appropriate motions to amend ruling
- Appeal if appropriate
* This list is meant to be an overview of the process. There may be other steps along the way as circumstances require.
Settlement offers may be made or received by either party at any point in the process. Also, pendente lite (temporary orders) may be sought early in the process to grant temporary custody, start child support, and more. You should expect your attorney to keep you abreast of the developments in your case, and help you understand what comes next in the process.
