Uncontested vs. Contested Divorce in Pennsylvania

If you are facing a divorce, your case will either be uncontested or contested. An uncontested divorce is one in which you and your divorcing spouse resolve each of the applicable terms between yourselves. If, however, you need the court’s intervention for one or more of the terms, your divorce will be contested. Uncontested divorce offers many benefits, but there are instances when heading to court is necessary to protect your interests.

The experienced Camp Hill, PA, divorce attorneys at Tanner Law Offices will help you make the right choice for you and your children throughout the divorce process.

Negotiating the Terms of Your Divorce

Whether or not your divorce is uncontested or contested will hinge on you and your soon-to-be ex’s ability to find common ground for each of the following terms that apply to your case:

• Child custody, which includes both legal custody and parenting time
• Child support, which is calculated according to exacting state guidelines
• The equitable division of marital property, which may or may not be equal
• Alimony
• Spousal Support/APL

If even one of these terms trips you up and you’re unable to resolve it, it can translate to a contested divorce.

The Primary Benefits of an Uncontested Divorce

There are many excellent reasons for setting your sights on an uncontested divorce. Not the least of these is that it allows you and your divorcing spouse to make important decisions that will directly affect your financial rights and your parental rights. All the following advantages also apply:

• You can expect more privacy with an uncontested divorce.
• An uncontested divorce is generally less time-consuming and less expensive.
• Your uncontested divorce is less likely to become hotly contested and to generate intense hostility that is hard on everyone, including your children.
• By settling your divorce terms between yourselves, you pave the way for a less rocky post-divorce relationship, which will serve your entire family well.

When a Contested Divorce Is the Better Option

Divorce is a very challenging life event, and it can bring out the worst in some people. If your spouse is far more interested in making your divorce as painful as it can be with little concern regarding the greater good, it’s a pretty good sign that you are better off heading directly to court. Further, if your divorce involves domestic violence, safety should be your primary focus. This is another instance when the court’s intervention is the best approach.

Our Experienced Divorce Lawyers Can Help

Our seasoned Camp Hill divorce attorneys at Tanner Law Offices have an impressive track record of helping our clients resolve their cases favorably, whether through uncontested or contested divorce. We care about you and your case, so please don’t wait to reach out with any questions or to learn more about everything we can do to help. Contact us online or call our firm at 717-731-8114 today.