August, 2014 byAlma Abell

Getting divorced may be the most stressful time in a person’s life. Anger, grief, regret and loss may control a person’s actions, causing him or her to do or say regrettable things. Many find change always difficult to deal with and divorce is a profound change.

There are some frequently asked questions about Kansas divorce.

What are the grounds for a Kansas divorce?

Incompatibility is the ground for most divorces. It means that the couple no longer with to live together, cannot get along and either or both desire to end the marriage.

What if I don’t want a divorce?

If one spouse wants a divorce, regardless of the other spouse’s wishes, the court is required to grant the divorce.

What is an uncontested divorce?

If both husband and wife agree on all issues pertaining to the divorce (division of property, custody and visitation, child support etc.), the divorce is considered ‘uncontested’. If there is disagreement on an issue, then work must be done to reach agreement.

What if I want to claim that the divorce is all my spouse’s fault?

While Kansas law allows ‘fault’ divorce, that is usually a very bad idea and will seldom affect the court’s decision. Generally, all that a ‘fault’ divorce accomplishes is a much slower divorce process, increased costs (from 3-10 times the cost) and a lot of bitter arguments. Discuss the matter with Divorce Lawyers In Garden City KS or where you live before proceeding.

Does it make a difference who files for divorce first?

Kansas is a ‘no-fault’ divorce state, so legally it doesn’t matter who filed first. In a few cases, there may be a strategic advantage to filing first; discuss this with a divorce lawyer.

What should I do? I just received divorce papers.

Don’t panic. The law allows 20 days to respond to the petition if served in Kansas and 30 days if the papers were received outside Kansas. The response to the divorce petition is called an ‘Answer’. It is critical to respond within the 20 or 30 days; otherwise, you will be ‘in default’ and will have forfeited your rights and can be divorced without your knowledge.

The Law Offices of Todd Allison and Sarah Newell Offices have helped many through the treacherous divorce waters. These Divorce Lawyers In Garden City KS are experienced in all of the ramifications of divorce in Kansas. Browse the Website for more information.