What Can Be Done If a Spouse Doesn't Sign the Divorce Papers?
Divorce papers outline the conditions of the divorce set forth by a spouse and their lawyer. However, the legal ramifications for a divorce process are complicated when one spouse refuses to sign divorce papers written by the other spouse.
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After Papers are Presented
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There is usually a 60-day period for spouses to respond to divorce papers. If the spouse does not sign the papers, it may lead the courts to rule an uncontested divorce in favor of the spouse that filed the papers. However, during the 60-day period, the other spouse may contest the divorce.
Contested Divorce
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A contested divorce works in a number of ways. The spouse that does not sign the divorce papers can contest the divorce. If there are demands or allegations within the divorce papers that are untrue, the spouse being given the papers may challenge the divorce papers in a court of law. The spouse that refuses to sign the papers must appear in divorce court for a contested divorce. In court, the spouse gives his or her reasons why they did not sign the divorce papers.
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Ramifications
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A contested divorce prolongs the divorce process. The spouse contesting the divorce may change the conditions of the divorce, but if the court rules against the contesting spouse, then he or she must agree to sign the divorce papers.
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References
- Photo Credit papers to be signed image by Pix by Marti from Fotolia.com
