Navigating Divorce Proceedings

Summary

Filing for divorce involves receiving a case number and serving your spouse with papers. They have 20 days to respond. If contested, hearings or trials may occur. If uncontested, a judge reviews and decides. Contesting means disagreeing on issues like custody or property. Non-response can lead to a default judgment. Trials include opening statements, evidence presentation, and a judges verdict. Oklahoma typically has judges, not juries, for divorce cases. Consult a local attorney for specific guidance.

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I have just filed for divorce, what should I expect
Hello ****, here's a general overview of what to expect:
- You will receive a case number.
- Your spouse will be served with divorce papers.
- They will have 20 days to respond.
- If they contest, there may be hearings or trials.
- If uncontested, a judge will review and make a final decision.
- Property, debts, and child custody will be addressed.
What does it mean to contest divorce
Contesting a divorce means your spouse disagrees with something in your divorce filing. This could be related to child custody, division of property, alimony, or other issues. In this case, the divorce may proceed to court for resolution.
what happens if they dont respond
If your spouse doesn't respond within the *-day period in Oklahoma, you could request a default judgment from the court. This may grant you the terms you've asked for in your divorce filing. However, it's best to consult with a legal professional to navigate this situation.
what happens at trial
A trial in a divorce case typically includes the following steps:
- Opening statements by each side
- Presentation of evidence and witnesses
- Cross-examination of witnesses
- Closing arguments
- Judge or jury deliberation and verdict.
The aim is to resolve disputes such as property division, alimony, or child custody.
is there a jury for divorce trials
In Oklahoma, divorce cases are typically decided by a judge, not a jury. However, some states do allow for jury trials in certain aspects of divorce, like property division or child custody. It's important to consult with a local attorney to understand your specific circumstances.