If My Divorce is Uncontested, Why Do I Need a Lawyer?

 Posted on November 16, 2023 in Divorce

There is a widespread belief that uncontested divorces are straightforward processes that require little to no planning and can be done without the guidance of legal professionals. This is a complete falsehood. While an uncontested divorce may feature less hostility than a traditional divorce requiring extensive litigation, even when both sides agree on the issues, as is true in uncontested divorces, having a qualified lawyer by your side is crucial. If you are approaching your divorce and believe it will be uncontested, here are the many reasons why you should still obtain the services of an attorney.

Traversing Legal Requirements 

Divorce laws and procedures vary from state to state. In Illinois, understanding and navigating these requirements can be challenging to near impossible without first having advanced legal knowledge of the procedures at hand. A lawyer is trained to guide clients through the entire divorce process, making sure all necessary legal requirements are followed appropriately. From correctly filling out various legal documents to filing them on time in the correct fashion, an attorney is specifically trained to complete such tasks. While these kinds of tasks may sound simple to complete, they are anything but.

Writing and Assessing Fundamental Legal Documents 

Even if your divorce is uncontested, there are many documents that will need to be prepared and filed. These documents, such as the settlement agreement, parenting plan, and financial disclosures, must be accurately drafted and reviewed to ensure your rights and interests are protected. Your lawyer will be responsible for ensuring these documents are comprehensive, legally sound, and effectively executed, lessening the risk of future disputes or complications. 

Identifying and Addressing Problem Areas

Even in an uncontested divorce, complex legal issues can arise at a moment’s notice, issues which may require advanced legal knowledge. Of course, these issues may involve property division, spousal support, child custody, and more. A lawyer will be able to provide you with guidance on the legal implications of different decisions, affording you the ability to make decisions that are in the best interests of you and your situation. 

Mediating Disputes

While an uncontested divorce implies that both parties have reached a tentative agreement, disagreements can and often do arise during the process. A lawyer can act as a mediator, helping to facilitate communication and negotiation between yourself and your spouse. Their ability to help you navigate such disputes can prove highly beneficial in the course of divorce proceedings. 

Contact a Wheaton, IL Uncontested Divorce Lawyer 

For effective legal guidance in your divorce, contact the skilled Winfield, IL uncontested divorce attorney with Hensley Sendek Law. Call 630-358-9029 for a free consultation.