Do both parties have to sign divorce papers in Alabama?
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Do both parties have to sign divorce papers in Alabama?
When just one spouse files a complaint for divorce, they are required to “serve” the paperwork on the other spouse. If the divorce is amicable, the other spouse can just sign for the paperwork at the courthouse, which will speed up the process.
Can a spouse force you to sign divorce papers?
The fact is that California is a no fault state and you do not need your spouse's signature in order to get a divorce. When you file a divorce petition, you have to serve your spouse with the summons and petition. Your spouse then has 30 days to file a response after being served with a divorce petition.
Do both spouses have to sign for a divorce?
Generally, the spouse who files for divorce is required to sign her own petition or complaint, although some states will allow her attorney to do it for her. In these states, if spouses agree to end the marriage, they can file a joint petition for divorce. They must both sign it.
What happens when a spouse won’t sign divorce papers?
If you properly served the divorce petition and your spouse filed an uncontested response, but won't sign off on the final divorce papers, courts in some states may allow the case to proceed as though it's uncontested. You may wait to be assigned a court appearance date.
What do you do when your spouse doesn’t want to sign divorce papers?
When a spouse refuses to sign divorce papers, the spouse seeking a divorce will need to obtain what is called a contested divorce. To file a contested divorce, the party who wishes to obtain the divorce must file a petition in the family court in their jurisdiction.
How long does a contested divorce take in Alabama?
An uncontested divorce usually takes about 6-10 weeks after everything has been signed by both spouses and filed with the court. A contested divorce can take anywhere from 30 days to months or years, depending on if there is a trial or not.
How long do you have to respond to divorce papers in Alabama?
30 daysThe answer – Your spouse has 30 days to respond to the complaint. This allows him or her time to hire a divorce attorney and respond to your claims fully. Ideally, he or she will agree to the terms and there is no need for the divorce to be contested.
Why won’t he sign the divorce papers?
Uncontested Divorce If you properly served the divorce petition and your spouse filed an uncontested response, but won't sign off on the final divorce papers, courts in some states may allow the case to proceed as though it's uncontested. You may wait to be assigned a court appearance date.
How long does an uncontested divorce take in Alabama?
about 6-10 weeksAn uncontested divorce usually takes about 6-10 weeks after everything has been signed by both spouses and filed with the court. A contested divorce can take anywhere from 30 days to months or years, depending on if there is a trial or not.
