Do I Need an Attorney for My Divorce?
June 21, 2021
Filing for divorce is a complicated process and can affect every aspect of your life. In both Kansas and Missouri, more and more couples are filing for divorce. According to the most recent data from the Kansas Department of Health and Environment, there were 6,303 divorces and 95 annulments in Kansas in 2019 alone. Missouri saw even more couples filing for divorce, as 17,698 couples filed for dissolution of marriage and 42 more filed for an annulment.
Given the psychological toll that divorce often takes, it’s absolutely critical that you receive detailed guidance and experienced representation. At Rundberg Law, LLC, I have devoted my entire career to providing reliable and experienced legal guidance to people facing divorce in both Kansas and Missouri. I’m available to discuss your unique circumstances and explore all possible legal options.
As a skilled divorce attorney, I can offer you the detailed legal counsel, support, and advocacy you need to make this transition as smooth as possible. My firm proudly serves clients across the Johnson County area, including Overland Park and the surrounding communities. I am also licensed to serve clients in Missouri, throughout the Kansas City area. Call me today to learn more about how I can help you.
Contested Divorce
vs. Uncontested Divorce
As you may know, divorce is often categorized into two separate categories — uncontested and contested divorce.
Uncontested Divorce
In an uncontested divorce, the parties agree on all of the terms and provisions of the divorce settlement, including asset division, spousal maintenance, child custody, child support, and parenting time. A settlement agreement is prepared that describes all agreed-upon terms and conditions. The settlement agreement is then submitted to the judge for approval to grant the divorce.
Even if you think your divorce is uncontested, it is important to have an experienced attorney assist you. An attorney will prepare the settlement agreement for you and be sure that the agreement includes all relevant issues that need to be resolved. A good divorce attorney will protect your rights and ensure that all important aspects of the divorce agreement are settled on terms that are fair to you.
Contested Divorce
In a contested divorce, the two spouses are unable to mutually agree on one or more terms of the divorce. If the parties cannot reach an agreement, a court trial will be necessary to resolve the disputed issues. During the trial, the parties will present evidence to the judge why the issue should be resolved in their favor. Often, issues at trial are decided in ways that please neither of the parties. An experienced attorney will protect your rights and represent your best interests in court. It’s important to have an advocate on your side who can adequately present your case to the judge and maximize your chances of receiving a favorable outcome.
Divorce Mediation
Divorce mediation is a cost-effective alternative dispute resolution method that many couples choose to avoid a court trial. Mediation is the process by which a neutral person assists the separating parties in reaching a mutually acceptable agreement, including child custody, residency, parenting time, and division of property. The role of the mediator is to:
Help the parties identify all divorce issues
Reduce misunderstandings between the parties
Clarify the priorities of each party
Explore areas of compromise and find points of agreement
Mediation can be with or without the parties' attorneys present. Having an attorney present is helpful to evaluate any proposal and determine if the proposed terms are acceptable or not. At the end of the mediation, the mediator will outline all of the details that have been agreed upon and the parties will confirm their agreement. A settlement agreement will then be prepared by the parties' attorneys to finalize the agreement to be submitted to the judge for approval. Any agreement reached by the parties will be acceptable to the judge.
Allow Rundberg Law, LLC
To Help with Your Divorce
Going through a divorce or legal separation can be a very emotional experience. Whether you’re negotiating a divorce settlement, dividing marital property, establishing spousal maintenance, determining child custody, child support, or parenting time — all of these challenges can make the whole process feel overwhelming. That’s why consulting with an experienced divorce attorney will help guide you through these disputes so that you can move forward with your life.
At Rundberg Law, LLC, I have the experience needed to assist and guide you through the complexities of the divorce process. As your legal counsel, I will evaluate your unique situation, help you understand all of your available options, and determine the best course of action for you. I will work diligently with you to resolve your divorce on terms that meet your needs. Using my extensive experience, I will guide you through every phase of the divorce process and ensure your rights are protected every step of the way.
So if you, or someone you know, is considering a divorce in Kansas or Missouri, contact my firm — Rundberg Law, LLC — today to schedule a one-on-one case assessment. I will work to protect your legal rights and help you move forward as quickly and amicably as possible. My firm is proud to serve individuals and families across Overland Park and the greater Johnson County area, as well as the surrounding communities throughout Kansas City, Kansas, and Missouri. Call me today to learn how I can assist you with your divorce.