Owensboro Contested Divorce Attorneys

Providing Professional Legal Support in Kentucky & Indiana

When a couple is unable to agree on the terms of their divorce, it is considered a contested divorce. These cases can be more complex due to the fact that the parties do not see eye-to-eye on multiple issues. If you are facing a contested divorce, it is crucial to have a skilled family law attorney on your side who can protect your interests and guide you through the process.

Bamberger & Brancato, PSC is here to help. We have been serving clients in Kentucky and Indiana for more than 50 years and have a proven track record of success. Our Owensboro contested divorce lawyers have a comprehensive understanding of this area of law and can provide the strong legal representation you need and deserve.

Need a contested divorce attorney in Owensboro, KY? Call us today at (270) 926-5050 to learn more about our services and how we can assist you.

Grounds for Divorce in Kentucky

In order to file for divorce in Kentucky, you must first meet the residency requirements. Then, you must have grounds for divorce. Kentucky is a no-fault divorce state, which means that you do not have to prove that your spouse did anything wrong in order to file for divorce. You can simply state that your marriage is “irretrievably broken.” If you and your spouse have been living apart for at least 60 days, you can also file for divorce based on this fact.

If you can prove that your spouse has committed misconduct, you may be able to file for a fault-based divorce. In Kentucky, the following are considered grounds for fault-based divorce:

• Adultery
• Abandonment for at least a year
• Alcohol or drug abuse
• Physical or mental abuse

In addition, if you and your spouse have lived apart for at least 1 year, you can file for divorce based on incompatibility. Keep in mind that you do not have to prove fault to file for divorce in Kentucky.

How to File for Contested Divorce

When a couple cannot agree on the terms of their divorce, it is considered a contested divorce. In order to file for contested divorce, you must first prepare a Petition for Dissolution of Marriage and file it with the appropriate court. You will need to pay a filing fee, unless you qualify for a fee waiver, and provide a copy of the petition to your spouse.

Your spouse will then have the opportunity to respond to the petition. If they do not respond within the designated time frame, you may be able to obtain a default judgment. If they do respond, your case will move forward and you will need to start preparing for court.

What Happens in a Contested Divorce?

In a contested divorce, the spouses are unable to agree on one or more of the following issues:

• Property division
• Alimony
• Child custody
• Child support

If you and your spouse are unable to agree on the terms of your divorce, you will need to go to court and let a judge make the decisions for you. The court will hold a hearing and you will need to present evidence to support your position on each of the contested issues. The judge will then review the evidence and make a final ruling.

How Long Does a Contested Divorce Take?

The length of a contested divorce depends on a variety of factors, including the specific circumstances of the case and the court’s schedule. Some contested divorces can be resolved in a few months, while others can take a year or more. Generally speaking, the more issues you and your spouse are able to agree on, the faster the process.

How Much Does a Contested Divorce Cost?

The cost of a contested divorce will depend on several factors, including the complexity of the case and how much you and your spouse are able to agree on. In general, the more issues you and your spouse are able to agree on, the lower the cost.

Keep in mind that you will need to pay a filing fee when you initiate the divorce process. If your case goes to trial, you may also need to pay additional court costs. In addition, if you choose to hire an attorney, you will need to pay for their services. Remember that the cost of an attorney is an investment in your future and can help you avoid making costly mistakes.

How to Choose a Contested Divorce Attorney

When choosing a contested divorce attorney, it is important to do your research. You want to choose a lawyer who has a deep understanding of this area of law and has a proven track record of success. You should also consider the lawyer’s reputation and how comfortable you feel with them. Divorce can be an emotional process, so it is crucial to choose a lawyer who you feel comfortable sharing personal information with.

At Bamberger & Brancato, PSC, we have been serving clients in Kentucky and Indiana for more than 50 years. We have a comprehensive understanding of this area of law and can provide the strong legal representation you need and deserve. 

Why You Need an Experienced Owensboro Contested Divorce Lawyer

It is not required to have a lawyer in order to file for divorce. However, if you are facing a contested divorce, it is highly recommended that you consult with a lawyer. The divorce process can be complex and difficult to navigate, especially if you and your spouse are unable to agree on the terms of your divorce.

An experienced contested divorce attorney can help you understand your rights and options, guide you through the process, and protect your interests. They can also help you gather the necessary evidence and build a strong case. Remember that the outcome of your divorce can impact you for years to come, so it is crucial to have a skilled attorney on your side.

At Bamberger & Brancato, PSC, we can provide the strong legal representation you need and deserve. Our Owensboro contested divorce lawyers will work tirelessly to protect your interests and help you achieve your goals. Contact us today to schedule a consultation.