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Divorce Process
Divorce Process
- Initial Consultation with Attorney: The process often begins with one spouse consulting with a divorce attorney to understand their rights, options, and the divorce process itself. During this consultation, the attorney gathers information about the marriage, assets, and any relevant issues.
- Filing the Petition: Once the decision to proceed with the divorce is made, one spouse (the petitioner) files a petition for divorce with the appropriate court in their jurisdiction. This legal document outlines the grounds for divorce and any requests regarding child custody, support, property division, and other matters.
- Service of Process: After filing the petition, the petitioner serves the other spouse (the respondent) with copies of the divorce papers, typically through a process server or certified mail. This step ensures that the respondent is officially notified of the divorce proceedings.
- Response to Petition: The respondent has a specific period, usually 30 days, to file a response to the petition with the court. In their response, the respondent can agree or disagree with the grounds for divorce and raise any counterclaims or requests for relief.
- Discovery: Both spouses engage in the discovery process, where they exchange information and documents related to finances, assets, debts, and other relevant matters. Discovery methods may include requests for documents, interrogatories (written questions), and depositions (sworn testimony).
- Negotiation or Mediation: With the assistance of their respective attorneys or a neutral mediator, the spouses attempt to negotiate a settlement agreement that addresses all relevant issues, such as child custody, support, property division, and alimony. Mediation may be court-ordered or voluntary, and its goal is to reach a mutually acceptable resolution without the need for a trial.
- Trial or Final Hearing: If the spouses are unable to reach a settlement through negotiation or mediation, the case proceeds to trial before a judge. During the trial, both parties present evidence, testimony, and arguments supporting their positions on contested issues. The judge then makes decisions on unresolved matters and issues a final divorce decree.
- Finalization of Divorce: Once the judge signs the final divorce decree, the divorce is finalized, and the marriage is legally dissolved. The decree outlines the terms of the divorce, including custody arrangements, support obligations, and the division of assets and debts. Each spouse must then comply with the terms of the decree, and any necessary legal steps are taken to implement its provisions, such as transferring property titles or changing beneficiaries on insurance policies.
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What Real Clients Have To Say
Travis B.
Mr. Waple did a fantastic job on my case, even if I wasn't a lot of help he still came through and for that I thank you Mr. Waple.
Tara D.
I was at a point of despair & thought that my then employer would do the right thing. Lou’s honesty, and integrity; along with his guidance gave me the dose of reality that I needed to see the true colors of legality in corporate America. Without his savvy I would have been blindsided! Cherie, always responded to all of my responses, and nervous reactions and made sure Lou was aware of what was happening! Great firm, I would highly recommend to anyone who wants respect, honesty and guidance as a client!
Aunyette S.
Mr.Waple has handled both of my cases very well. I definitely recommend this team of professional lawyers and secretaries. Thank you!
Tashaun H.
My experience working with Lou was an absolute joy. From our very first conversation, he assured me that he would work relentlessly to help me secure adequate compensation for my case and he did just that. His paralegal, Cheri, was helpful with timely responses to any and all questions I had and she helped reduce the stress of a very tedious process. I highly recommend this firm for any future litigation and would love to work with them again if the opportunity arises.
S.D.
Lindsey Houk helped me gain custody of my son from a very toxic and unhealthy environment with his biological mom. Thanks to Lindsey, I was able to provide him with the stability he needed. Thank you for your hard work and unwavering dedication to our case. You were always available, promptly filed emergency documents, and provided unwavering support from the moment we first discussed my case in your office. Some might say you were just doing your job, but whatever the case, my family appreciates you so much. My son is the true definition of...
Tammy A.
Mr. Lou Waple & his associates rendered great & professional services to me from day one handling my case. They are very friendly & stayed on top of everything. I will use them again if needed in the future & I highly recommend them to others.
Jessie W.
Lou and the team was just what I needed. They never left me in doubt. It was like he held my hand the whole way through. He worked with the workers comp agency and I didn't have to deal with them. Thanks team.
David P.
Lou and Cheri were absolutely amazing! Cheri went above and beyond any expectations I had to make sure I was taken care of. Lou was there for all of my questions and made sure the mediation went the way it should by engaging the moderator and making sure the insurance company was held responsible for the compensation to me for my injuries. Thank you both and your entire team for helping me through this horrendous tragedy. I am forever grateful to you!
Scott H.
Fantastic staff. Very friendly, knowledgeable. Exceeded my expectations. I would highly recommend!
Chelsea B.
I have never had to even think about finding a lawyer considering I’m only 31, never would I imagined needing one. But Waple and Houk saved my life. Lou Waple, I can’t say enough kind words about this man. He become part of my life not just a lawyer, he listened when I cried, he fought for me like no one else was, he got what I deserved in the end and if it wasn’t for him idk where I’d be...
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