How do you respond to being served divorce papers?

How do you respond to being served divorce papers?

You have two choices when responding to the divorce papers:

1. Answer only. An “Answer” tells the judge and your spouse what parts of the complaint you agree with and disagree with.
2. Answer with a Counterclaim.

How much does it cost to respond to divorce?

As the Petitioner, all you should have to pay when you file your Petition for Dissolution of Marriage is $388. If your spouse, as the Respondent, files an Answer or other responsive pleading later, he or she will pay the $251 response fee. There are other ways to keep divorce filing fees to a minimum.

Can you refuse to accept divorce papers?

The Court can grant a divorce order, even if the spouse refuses to sign any documents. Otherwise, the spouse may ask the Court to appear by telephone. While a spouse can refuse to sign the divorce papers, it is highly likely that the divorce will still take place. However, some situations could delay the divorce.

How long do I have to respond to a divorce petition?

30 days

What happens if spouse doesn’t respond to divorce petition?

When one spouse in California files a petition for divorce, the other spouse must be formally served with papers. When a spouse doesn’t respond to a divorce petition, the person who failed to file the answer to the court will lose his or her rights to make arguments about property division, support, and child custody.

Who usually pays for a divorce?

Each party in the divorce action pays for his or her attorney fees and costs. However, there are circumstances in which a judge may order a husband to pay the wife’s attorney fees and costs.

Is there an advantage to filing divorce first?

One of the main legal advantages that a person gains by filing the divorce petition before his or her spouse does is that the filer can request a Standing Order from the court when filing the petition. If the matter should go to a hearing, the person who files the petition usually presents his or her case first.

What can I ask for in a divorce settlement?

Considerations to Make About What to Ask for in a Divorce Settlement

• Marital Home.
• Life Insurance and Health Insurance Policies.
• Division of Debt.
• Private School Tuition and College Tuition.
• Family Heirlooms and Jewelry.
• Parenting Time.
• Retirement Funds.