THE STEPS TO SECURING AN ALABAMA DIVORCE
Getting a divorce in Mobile or any of the other courts of Alabama is a process that requires time and perseverance. That is because divorce is a legal process that has rules and requirements for a successful outcome to be achieved. When a Mobile resident is ready to end their marriage, it can benefit them to talk with a divorce attorney about what steps they must follow to secure their divorce.
The information contained in this post is general and is not offered as legal advice. Individual readers can work with their own lawyers to meet the many requirements of filing and fighting for their divorces. Other rules and considerations may apply to readers’ divorces that are not discussed herein.
THE DIVORCE TIMELINE IN ALABAMA
Only Alabama residents can get divorced in Alabama courts. In order to file for divorce in Alabama, a person or their spouse must have lived in the state for at least 6 months to establish residency. If a couple moves to Alabama with the intent of immediately divorcing, they will have to wait around half a year to begin the process.
Alabama residents who file for divorce can choose fault or no fault grounds on which to based their divorces. They may claim that their marriages are irretrievably broken, or they may allege fault in the form of adultery, criminal conduct, or another bases as the grounds for their divorces.
Once a divorce is filed the courts mandate that final decisions regarding the divorce be subject to a 30 day waiting period. This waiting period gives individuals time to reconcile if they choose to stay in their marriages.
FACTORS THAT CAN LENGTHEN DIVORCE PROCEEDINGS
A straightforward divorce between two individuals who both wish to end their marriage and who agree on all divorce-related matters can resolve relatively quickly. However, many divorces are complicated by other family law matters, such as:
- Child custody and support
- Property divisions and settlement of assets
- Alimony or spousal support
Getting through a divorce can be difficult. Individuals do not have to face their family law challenges alone. Legal counsel from a local attorney can provide support and guidance to those who are ready to begin the divorce process.