Facing Divorce? Learn about divorce laws, grounds for divorce, and the legal process. Find a qualified lawyer to ensure a fair and amicable outcome.
When one spouse disagrees — a contested divorce — it usually takes 1–3 years, sometimes even longer if the case is highly complex.Unlike uncontested divorces (3–6 months), contested divorces involve court intervention, discovery, hearings, mediation, and potentially trial — all of which extend the process significantly. Below, we explain why contested divorces take longer, what…
No, you are not legally required to sign divorce papers to make the divorce happen. But — and it’s a big but — you do need to respond appropriately and within deadlines to protect your rights, avoid a default judgment, and have your voice heard in court. This guide explains: What Does It Mean to…
A divorce decree is the judge’s final, binding legal order that officially ends your marriage. It spells out everything: property division, debts, custody, support, name changes, and more, effectively serving as a blueprint for your post-divorce life. Think of it as your legal “rebirth certificate” typically 8–15 pages, stamped with the court’s seal, signed by…
You (or your spouse) must have lived in Indiana for at least six months and in the county where you’re filing for at least three months. You file a Petition for Dissolution of Marriage with your county clerk, serve the papers to your spouse, wait at least 60 days, and resolve issues like property, custody,…
To divorce a narcissist, you must combine strong legal planning with emotional self-protection. This includes working with a skilled attorney, documenting abusive behavior, setting firm communication boundaries, and protecting your finances and custody rights. Narcissistic spouses often use manipulation and delay tactics, so preparation is your strongest defense. A Chilling Stat That Explains the Urgency…
A 3-year-old child may not fully understand divorce, but they deeply feel the emotional disruption. At this stage of brain and emotional development, separation can cause confusion, insecurity, and behavioral changes. However, with the right support, consistent routines, and co-parenting strategies, long-term psychological harm can often be minimized. Why This Matters: A Startling Stat According…
Research consistently identifies early childhood (ages 3-5) as the most vulnerable period for parental divorce, creating a “perfect storm” of developmental risks. At this stage, children experience divorce through a lens of magical thinking and egocentrism, often believing they caused the separation through their behavior. As described in parenting accounts, a 3-year-old may sob, “But…
Divorce is often complicated by the question of who gets to keep the family home, especially when children are involved. The family home is more than just a piece of real estate—it represents stability, routine, and emotional security for the children. In this combined guide, we explore the crucial factors that determine who gets the…
Divorce is one of life’s most emotionally and financially significant legal processes. A common question at the outset is, Does it matter who files for divorce first? Legally, filing first (as the petitioner) does not automatically guarantee a better outcome. U.S. courts make decisions—on custody, support, and property—based on facts, not who initiated the case….