What is generally involved in a contested divorce proceeding?
The case commences when a complaint for divorce is filed. The Complaint and summons are served on the other spouse (the defendant) usually by a special process server who finds the defendant and personally hands him/her the papers. While this may be more dramatic than certified mail service and is at a cost to the client, usually certified mail service is unsuccessful because the defendant does not pick up or accept the certified mailing. On request of either party, by motions and affidavits filed, a court magistrate may issue whatever temporary orders (custody, support, parenting time with child/children, payment of existing debts, etc.) are necessary and which will likely be in effect during the pendency of the case. Formal discovery is also involved and typically includes requests for the production of documents (usually financial documents) and depositions of the parties and non-parties. Property may need to be appraised, and if so, experts may be retained and testify. If custody i
