Contested Divorce

Minneapolis Contested Divorce Lawyer 

Guiding Clients Through The Contested Divorce Process in Minnesota 

When a marriage dissolves, it can be a tumultuous and emotionally challenging experience. Not all divorces follow the same path, and while some couples can reach an amicable agreement, others find themselves entangled in a contested divorce. At Sobol Family Law, our dedicated team of Minneapolis contested divorce lawyers is here to guide you through the challenges of a contested divorce, ensuring your rights and interests are protected. We understand our clients' difficulties and are here to provide the support and expertise you need during this trying time.

Call Sobol Family Law today at (866) 484-4079 or contact us online to schedule a meeting with our contested divorce attorney in Minneapolis!

What is a Contested Divorce?

A contested divorce is a legal process in which spouses cannot agree on essential issues, such as property division, child custody, alimony, and other aspects of their separation. In such cases, the court becomes the decision-maker, resolving disputes and issues the spouses cannot agree upon.

Contested divorces often involve intense negotiations, document gathering, and, potentially, court appearances. Having a skilled and experienced attorney on your side is essential to help navigate this intricate legal terrain. Our team at Sobol Family Law is well-versed in handling contested divorce cases in Minneapolis, ensuring our clients receive the best legal representation.

Contested Divorce Requirements in Minnesota

Minnesota has specific requirements that must be met to initiate a contested divorce. These requirements include:

  • Residency: One or both spouses must be residents of Minnesota for at least 180 days before filing for divorce. If a member of the armed forces is stationed in Minnesota, they can still meet the residency requirement.
  • Grounds for Divorce: Minnesota is a "no-fault" divorce state, meaning that you do not need to prove fault or wrongdoing by either party to obtain a divorce. All that is required is to state that the marriage has suffered an "irretrievable breakdown."
  • Filing a Petition: The spouse initiating the divorce, known as the "petitioner," must file a Petition for Dissolution of Marriage with the court. The other spouse, the "respondent," is then served with the divorce papers.
  • Response: The respondent has a specific amount of time to respond to the divorce petition. If they disagree with any of the claims in the petition, this can lead to a contested divorce.
  • Temporary Orders: During the divorce process, temporary orders may be issued by the court to address issues like child custody, spousal support, and property division while the divorce is pending.
  • Discovery and Negotiation: The discovery process involves gathering financial and other relevant information. Negotiations often follow, intending to settle. If an agreement cannot be reached, the case proceeds to trial.
  • Trial: In contested divorces, a trial may be necessary to resolve unresolved issues. Both parties present evidence and arguments, and a judge makes the final decisions.

Our team of Minneapolis contested divorce lawyers at Sobol Family Law is well-versed in Minnesota's divorce laws and can guide you through these requirements, ensuring your case is handled with the utmost professionalism and expertise.

Award-Winning Representation
Brian is the only lawyer so ranked in Minnesota who is also a diplomate in the American College of Family Trial Lawyers, a by-invitation only group of 100 of the top family trial lawyers in the American Academy of Matrimonial Lawyers, an equally select group of the top family lawyers in the nation. Get his experience on your side today.
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How Long Does a Contested Divorce Take?

The duration of a contested divorce in Minneapolis can vary significantly and is influenced by several factors, including the complexity of the issues, the court's docket, and the willingness of the parties to cooperate. On average, a contested divorce can take several months to over a year to conclude. Here are some factors that can impact the timeline:

  • Complexity of Issues: The more complex the issues in dispute, the longer it may take to resolve. Matters like high asset division, child custody disputes, and spousal support can extend the process.
  • Court Docket: The court's schedule can significantly impact the timeline. Courts may have busy dockets, causing delays in setting hearings and trial dates.
  • Negotiation and Mediation: The process may be expedited if the parties can agree on some or all issues through negotiation or mediation. However, a trial becomes necessary if an agreement cannot be reached.
  • Document Gathering and Discovery: The time it takes to gather all necessary documents and complete the discovery process can also affect the timeline.
  • Interim Orders: Temporary orders may be necessary while the divorce is pending, and the court may need time to issue these orders.

It's important to understand that while the timeline for a contested divorce may be unpredictable, having a skilled attorney by your side can help streamline the process and work toward a favorable resolution efficiently.

Contact Our Minneapolis Contested Divorce Attorney Today

If you find yourself in a contested divorce situation, our experienced Minneapolis contested divorce lawyers are here to guide you every step of the way. We understand the challenges these cases present and are devoted to assisting you through the legal process with confidence. With Sobol Family Law, you have a dedicated partner in your journey towards a better future.

Contact Sobol Family Law today to schedule a consultation with our contested divorce lawyer in Minneapolis!

Testimonials

Read What Satisfied Clients Say About Working with Brian
    “I cannot say enough as to the caring and zealous help Brian gave to me and my family.”
    “Brian was tenacious in helping me protect my children and was able to uncover our finances to allow us to ultimately reach a fair division of our property and a fair award of support for me and my children.”
    - Megan C.
    “Brian, is not just a lawyer but a miracle worker as well.”
    “His work is nothing but extraordinary. What he did for my friend was impossible to even think could be done. Brian did what he would do for his own family.”
    - Yelena B.
    “Brian has guided my wife and I, plus extended family members, through some challenging times.”
    “His knowledge in a variety of legal aspects is unparalleled. We feel fortunate to have his representation.”
    - Jeff
    “Brian was efficient, respectful, knowledgeable, personable and wonderful.”
    “He made the process of the ordeal as good as it could have been, including the outcome. I would recommend Brian to anyone, who wants an exceptional professional and advocate to represent them in a legal matter.”
    - Former Client
    “Brian was brilliant.”
    “After Brian negotiated my divorce settlement, my ex-husband, surprisingly, delivered the highest compliment, stating "Brian was brilliant."”
    - Barbara
    “It was tough, but Brian met all of my expectations.”
    “During the past three years Brian helped me through a bitterly contested family law matter.”
    - David
    “I highly recommend Brian Sobol for contentious custody cases especially when opposing counsel is outrageous.”
    “Brian Sobol is methodical in his approach. It takes a long time to move through the family court process but I can sit back now and relax. A highly skilled professional will argue the law and fight for me to see my kids.”
    - Julie M.
    “He is the best lawyer I ever could have been blessed with.”
    “I know I won't have need of for Mr. Sobol again. If I did though...Brian Sobol would be the person I would have defend me!”
    - Tammy G.