What are the basic steps in a divorce?
The basic steps in a divorce are similar across the United States. Divorce laws, like marriage laws, are state matters, and each state has its own divorce statutes and procedures, but the process is pretty much the same everywhere in the U.S. It’s a good idea to familiarize yourself with the process of divorce in your state before you begin. It is also very helpful to consult a divorce attorney, who can tell you more about what you can expect regarding your own specific circumstances. 1. One of the spouses (husband or wife) usually has an attorney write up a petition, the document that says that the spouse wants a divorce. In some states, this document is called the “complaint.” It is also possible to handle the divorce documents oneself (“pro se”), if the divorce situation is a very simple case. 2. The petition is filed with the family law court. 3. The lawyer who filed the petition has the document served on the other spouse, along with a summons that requires his or her response. 4.
