You may choose to pursue your uncontested divorce alone or with an attorney. Working with an attorney can help speed up the process, and you’ll be sure to file the proper paperwork before any legal deadlines that may arise.

It is normal to disagree on terms of your divorce, especially pertaining to children, property and asset division, and other challenges. However, to keep your divorce uncontested, you and your spouse must find a compromise when drafting up your divorce agreement. Both spouses must agree to the resolution of all issues related to divorce, but you will have time to talk things through in the meeting room. Working with an attorney familiar with mediation and divorce negotiation can go a long way to finding a timely – and fair – compromise.

It is helpful for you and your spouse to agree on basic divorce issues such as child care and custody, property and asset division, spousal support, and other financial arrangements. Both parties must, of course, agree to the divorce as well. Even if one party does not show up for divorce proceedings, this will be construed as their agreement to the divorce.

Once you sign your divorce agreement, it may be difficult to alter the terms of your divorce – but it is not impossible. If you’re going through post-divorce changes such as income fluctuation that affects your ability to pay spousal or child support, there were errors made by the court, one party was arrested or charged with crimes, a spouse/parent needs to relocate, or you want to appeal a court decision, you may be able to petition the court to modify your divorce settlement agreement. It’s best to talk to an attorney about your unique situation.

This depends on how quickly you can draft an agreement that both you and your spouse approve and how quickly your court files paperwork and approves divorce judgments. Again, working with an attorney can speed the process along, as they will have specific experience in dealing with your divorce court and can facilitate productive negotiations.

An attorney is a great place to start when you’re pursuing uncontested divorce, and your attorney will likely draft and file most of your paperwork. Many couples use a mediator to help facilitate agreements surrounding finances or custody issues. You may also need to speak with financial experts, such as an actuary/appraiser, to determine the value of your retirement benefits or real property. Mental health experts may also be important to consider, especially if one or both spouses needs emotional support during the divorce.