What to Do About a Lengthy Divorce

A typical divorce can take several months or more to complete. If your divorce is more complicated, it may take longer. When your divorce drags on, it can be stressful for you and your family. It is helpful to know what to do about a lengthy divorce. There are some things you can do to keep your divorce moving forward.

Find Out the Cause of the Delay

If you feel your divorce is taking too long you should find out what’s causing the delay. Many times the cause of a delay is a dispute between parties. These disputes can cause the divorce process to stall while couples try to find a resolution. Many disagreements are due to finances or issues regarding the children. Once you know the reason for the holdup, you can more easily work to resolve it or at least find ways to identify or quantify each party’s position for a Court to more easily make a determination.

Take Steps to Resolve the Disagreement

A stalemate can happen when parties are unwilling to communicate. Better communication may create a better understanding of what is at the heart of the dispute. Emotions can often play a significant part in causing a rift between spouses. Your lawyer can be instrumental in facilitating a resolution that is fair.

Consider Making Compromises to Resolve Problems

With few exceptions, assets and property that was obtained during the marriage is considered marital property. Marital property must be distributed equitably between parties in a divorce. Keep in mind that it can be more costly to try to fight a particular issue than to simply compromise.

Seek Assistance from a Mediator

A mediator may be helpful in bringing about a sensible result. Mediators are objective professionals who specialize in facilitating dispute resolutions. Couples work through their most difficult problems in a divorce settlement. Mediation may be requested by the court if a couple is not able to come to an agreement on their own. Attorneys can help make the mediation process even more productive by lending their client their own expertise and knowledge during the proceedings.

Get Help from Your Attorney

Remember that your attorney wants to do what is best for you. If the process is taking too long, talk to your lawyer to assist in finding a compromise that is reasonable. Keep in mind that some cases may require additional time to iron out complex situations. Talk candidly with your lawyer to express your concerns about the length of the divorce process. Your attorney will answer your questions and create a plan to bring your divorce to a conclusion as quickly as possible.

Contact the compassionate legal team at Udall Shumway PLC to discuss the details of your divorce.

This blog should be used for informational purposes only. It does not create an attorney-client relationship with any reader and should not be construed as legal advice. If you need legal advice regarding Lengthy Divorce, or other family law issues, please feel free to contact Barry C. Dickerson at 480.461.5300, log on to udallshumway.com, or contact an attorney in your area. Udall Shumway PLC is located in Mesa, Arizona and is a full service law firm. We assist Individuals, families, businesses, schools, and municipalities in Mesa and the Phoenix/East Valley.