When a couple makes the decision to divorce, it is typically just one spouse who goes to a divorce lawyer to file the paperwork. One of the documents filed is called a divorce petition, and this is the document that basically starts the divorce process. If your spouse recently filed this, you should be receiving a copy of it soon, and here are several things to know about how you should respond to it.
Why you need to respond
The first thing to understand is the reason that you even need to respond to the divorce petition after receiving it, and the reason is to protect yourself and your rights. Not responding to it offers an indication that you agree with everything your spouse is saying and everything he or she wants, and therefore, not responding will void your ability to negotiate on the settlement of the divorce.
What your answer should contain
There are two main things that you will need to include in your response to the divorce petition you received. The first is an acknowledgment showing you received the petition. The second is simply your position on the settlement of the matters of the divorce. Your response should contain what you agree with that you see on the divorce petition and what you disagree it. You should cautiously write your response in a way that is clear and complete.
Ways to submit your answer
There are two main ways to respond to a divorce petition, and one option is to write a response yourself. If you do this, you will need to mail a copy to the court or drop it off. Make sure your copy includes the case number for the divorce so that the court knows exactly what case it is for. A second option is to visit a divorce lawyer and let the lawyer respond to the petition, and choosing this option is a better choice.
How to proceed after this step
After responding to the petition, you will need to make sure the court schedules a preliminary hearing, at which certain issues of the divorce will temporarily be settled. This hearing is an important step in your case, and you will need to make sure you are present for it.
If you have not pursued hiring a lawyer as of yet, that should be your first step. You need legal representation in a divorce case, and you can learn more about this by contacting a divorce lawyer or family lawyer in your city.
Share11 December 2019
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