Individual Services
Marital Dissolution
When you and your spouse have reached agreement on the terms of your separation, document preparation and filing assistance is provided to complete the legal process with clarity, dignity, and efficiency.
Important: This Service is for Uncontested Matters Only
Document preparation is provided for couples who have already agreed on all terms of their separation. Neither party is represented, no negotiation is conducted on anyone's behalf, and contested matters including custody disputes are not handled.
If you and your spouse disagree on property division, support, custody, or any other significant issue, you need attorneys who can advocate for your individual interests. Referrals can be provided to Alden Kinsley, the litigation partner firm.
The Approach
Completing the process you've already started
When couples make the difficult decision to separate and work together to reach agreement on terms, they deserve efficient, dignified assistance completing the legal requirements. The focus is on accurate document preparation, proper filing, and clear guidance through the court process.
Agreement-Based
The starting point is what you've already agreed upon. The role is to translate your decisions into proper legal documents, not to influence the outcome.
Accurate Documentation
Proper legal documents are essential. Agreements are accurately captured in formats that courts accept and that protect both parties.
Ethical Clarity
The team is clear about what is and isn't offered. Both parties are encouraged to seek independent review, and the process pauses if disagreements arise.
Document Services
Documents Prepared
Each situation is unique, but these are the core document services available for uncontested dissolutions.
Uncontested Dissolution
When you and your spouse have reached agreement on all terms, attorneys prepare the legal documents required by your state, ensure proper filing, and guide you through the court process. This service is for couples who have already resolved property division, support, and parenting arrangements.
Separation Agreements
A separation agreement formalizes the terms you and your spouse have negotiated, covering property division, debt allocation, support arrangements, and parenting schedules. This written agreement becomes the foundation for your dissolution filing.
Property Division Documentation
Attorneys prepare the deeds, titles, and transfer documents needed to implement your agreed property division. This includes real estate transfers, vehicle titles, retirement account divisions, and business interest assignments.
Parenting Plan Documentation
For couples with children who have already agreed on custody and parenting time, your arrangements are documented in the format required by your jurisdiction. Clear, comprehensive plans help avoid future misunderstandings.
The Process
How the process works
From initial consultation through final decree, here's what to expect when you engage the team for document preparation.
Initial Review
30-45 minutesThe process begins with a conversation to understand your situation and confirm that the dissolution is uncontested. Attorneys review what you and your spouse have agreed upon and identify any areas that need clarification before proceeding.
Agreement Documentation
5-7 business daysBased on the terms you've agreed to, a comprehensive separation agreement is prepared covering property, debts, support, and if applicable, parenting arrangements. You'll have time to review everything carefully.
Document Review
30-45 minutesA meeting is held to review all prepared documents together, answer questions, and make any needed revisions. Both parties must understand and agree to all terms before signing.
Execution & Filing
Varies by jurisdictionOnce finalized, signing is coordinated with proper notarization and documents are filed with the appropriate court. Guidance is provided on any required waiting periods and court appearances.
Final Decree
30-90 days typicallyAfter the court reviews and approves your filing, you receive your final decree of dissolution. It is reviewed with you to ensure you understand any ongoing obligations or next steps.
Please Understand
Important considerations
This is Document Preparation, Not Representation
Legal documents are prepared based on agreements you have already reached. No negotiation is conducted on your behalf, no advocacy for either party, and no advice is provided about what terms you should seek.
Both Parties Should Understand All Terms
Before signing, each party should fully understand every provision. Both parties are encouraged to seek independent legal review if they have any questions about whether the terms protect their interests.
Contested Matters Require Different Services
If you and your spouse disagree on any significant issue, you need attorneys who can negotiate or litigate on your behalf. Referrals to qualified family law attorneys for contested matters can be provided.
Common Questions
Frequently asked questions
What does 'uncontested' mean?
An uncontested dissolution means you and your spouse agree on all major issues: property division, debt allocation, spousal support (if any), and if you have children, custody and parenting arrangements. If you disagree on any significant issue, the matter is contested and requires a different type of legal service not offered here.
Do you represent both spouses?
No. Both parties cannot be represented in a dissolution. The role is to prepare the legal documents based on the agreement you and your spouse have already reached. It is recommended that each party have the opportunity to have the documents reviewed by their own independent counsel if they wish, though this is not required.
What if we disagree on something during the process?
If a disagreement arises that you cannot resolve between yourselves, the matter becomes contested. Document preparation would need to pause, and you would need to either work out the disagreement or engage attorneys for negotiation or litigation. Referrals to the litigation partner firm can be provided for contested matters.
Can you give us legal advice about what's fair?
The role here is document preparation, not negotiation or advocacy. Neither party is advised on whether the terms are 'fair' or in their best interest. If you need help negotiating terms or want advice on what you should ask for, you should consult with an attorney who can represent your individual interests before engaging the team.
How long does the process take?
Document preparation typically takes 1-2 weeks once all necessary information is received. After filing, the timeline depends on your state's requirements. Many states have mandatory waiting periods of 30-90 days. The specific timeline for your jurisdiction is explained during the initial consultation.
What about contested divorces or custody disputes?
This service does not handle contested matters, custody disputes, or cases requiring negotiation or court advocacy. For those situations, clients are referred to Alden Kinsley, a litigation firm experienced in family law matters. The focus is exclusively on helping couples who have already reached agreement complete the legal process.
Do we both need to be present for meetings?
For the initial review and document signing, both parties should be present to ensure everyone understands and agrees to the terms. The review meeting can include both parties together or separately, depending on your preference and comfort level.
What documents will we need to provide?
Typically, financial information is needed including income documentation, asset lists, debt statements, and property records. If you have children, their information is needed as well. A detailed checklist is provided after the initial consultation so you know exactly what to gather.
Ready to complete the process?
If you and your spouse have reached agreement and are ready to formalize your dissolution, the team is here to help with the paperwork and process.