When a couple chooses to get a divorce in Wheat Ridge, Arvada, or Golden, it is often the first time they are dealing with the courts and the legal system. There are many terms and phrases that experienced divorce attorneys will use and refer to that may be unfamiliar to you. While you should always feel comfortable asking exactly what the terms mean, you can use this blog as a handy reference guide for those commonly used basic divorce terminology.
Commonly Used Terms and Phrases Related to Arvada Divorce: A Glossary
Contested – A contested divorce is one where both parties are not in agreement about certain terms. A contested divorce requires a court hearing where the judge will make a ruling on the contested issues.
Decree – This is the final document that the Jefferson County judge will sign, which states that you and your spouse are officially divorced. It is officially called the decree of dissolution of marriage when a divorce is being sought. For a legal separation, it is known as the decree of legal separation.
Discovery – Discovery refers to the documents and information requested from either party. It can relate to financial matters, interrogatories (interview with another party), or other necessary documents needed for child custody, divorce, child support, or alimony determinations.
Financial Disclosures – A financial disclosure is the collection of financial documents that are exchanged through the divorce negotiations. The disclosure must include a sworn financial statement and a certificate outlining the documents you have provided – like pay stubs, account statements, and tax returns.
Motion – A motion is a request that you file with the court.
Petition – A petition is the document you first file in a divorce case. It is basically what notifies the court that a new case is being started, so it can be assigned a case number. It is officially known as a petition for dissolution of marriage. Petitions must be served on the other party.
Separation Agreement – This is the final document which outlines all the terms of a couple’s divorce. It will include those that the parties agreed to and those that the judge decided on (in the case of a contested divorce). It covers terms related to property and debt division, child support and alimony.
Uncontested – An uncontested divorce is one where both parties agree on all the issues related to the divorce. No court hearing is required when the dissolution is uncontested.
If you are getting a divorce, contact the best family law attorneys from the Pearman Law Firm at 303-991-7600 for a initial phone consultation.
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