What Happens If a Person Refuses to Sign Divorce Papers?
Contested Divorce Generally, when a spouse wants to file for a divorce, he or she consults with the other spouse in order to determine if the spouses can agree on filing for a divorce. If the couple agrees, this is known as an “uncontested” divorce. However, when a spouse cannot agree or one of the parties refuses to sign uncontested divorce papers, the divorce becomes known as a “contested” divorce. In such an instance, it is necessary for a contested divorce action to be filed in court. Contested Divorce Initial Procedure Generally, a contested divorce action begins with the filing of a petition to the appropriate court, usually the family court. The petition only requires the signature of one spouse. The petition should contain an allegation that the marriage has dissolved. Additionally, the petition should include any basis for the divorce, if the state’s applicable statute requires such information to be contained in the document. The petition should only include those items requi
