Q: I filed for divorce and paid the fees and just received the receipt in the mail with his signature stating he received
The papers. What is my next step?
A:
After the respondent is served, the respondent then files an answer. Next, the parties will be required to submit disclosures under Rule 26.1, including the financial declaration. The parties can then try to reach a settlement agreement, or stipulation on all issues. If there are children, the parties will also be required to complete the divorce education courses. Once a stipulation is reached and the parties have completed the divorce education courses (if children are involved), proposed findings of fact and proposed divorce decree can be submitted to the court. Divorce actions with children are a lot more complicated. The parties will also need to submit the child support worksheet, income verification for both parties, and a parenting plan. There is also a required 30 day waiting period after the petition is filed before the court can . If the respondent fails to timely file an answer, the petitioner can seek a default judgment.
OCAP has a system for persons who are representing themselves in some legal matters, including divorce cases.
Many lawyers can also assist with the paperwork for uncontested divorces for a reasonable fee.
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