Does it matter who initiates a divorce?

Does it matter who initiates a divorce?

Only one spouse can file first. They are referred to as the plaintiff. The other spouse is the defendant. Whether you are the plaintiff of the defendant is not as important as getting a good team together or doing research yourself into the divorce process.

Can a spouse drag out a divorce?

A divorce begins when either spouse files a divorce petition. Spouses can speed up the process by making their divorce uncontestedmeaning both spouses agree to all of the terms in the petition.

Is my wife entitled to half my assets?

They can be a common fear amongst people entering into a new relationship, that their new spouse may automatically become entitled to half of their assets. Just because you enter into a new relationship with a person, does not mean that person becomes automatically entitled to half your assets.

How long is a petition for divorce valid?

Divorce papers that have not been filed do not expire (whereas if a marital settlement agreement that has been filed but not ratified will be dismissed by the court for lack of record activity in 1 year). When you say you signed a petition I assume you also mean a marital settlement agreement.