Contested Divorce
Not all dissolution of marriages involves amicable settlements. In a contested divorce, it is important to hire a lawyer immediately to start working on your case. Many divorces involve complex valuations of assets and appraisals of property that can take six to twelve months. Your lawyer will also be able to request a Temporary Orders Hearing, which allows you to obtain temporary maintenance, child support, parenting time, and attorney fees. This process is especially important in situations in which spousal support is disputed. This hearing often sets the tone for the rest of the case.
Most contested divorces settle. However, in the event that you go to trial (called Permanent Orders), you need an expert courtroom lawyer. Many divorce lawyers do not have trial experience and having a lawyer who has successfully examined hundreds of difficult witnesses is an asset to your case. An experienced litigator can make a huge difference in your case.