Your Des Moines, IA family lawyer can help you get through your divorce, and the right team can also help you find your next steps. At Law Group of Iowa, we’ve spent years helping our clients with family law, estate planning, and more. Now, we’re ready to share what we know to bring you up to speed.
Going through a divorce brings up a lot of questions, especially when it comes to legal rights, timelines, and what to expect. We’ve put together a set of common voice-search-style questions that we often hear from clients who are just starting the process. If you’ve found yourself asking similar things, you’re not alone. Read on for some important answers to your divorce questions, and contact us today to get started on your case.
How Long Does A Divorce Usually Take?
The length of a divorce depends on how much the two people agree on. If everything is uncontested and both sides sign off quickly, a divorce can move through in a few months. But if there are disagreements about property, custody, or support, it could take longer—sometimes a year or more. Courts often have waiting periods too, which can affect the timeline.
What’s The Difference Between Legal Separation And Divorce?
Legal separation means you’re still married but living apart with a legal agreement in place. It can cover child support, custody, and property, just like a divorce, but without officially ending the marriage. Some people choose this route for financial or personal reasons. Divorce, on the other hand, legally ends the marriage.
Do We Have To Split Everything 50-50?
Not always. Iowa follows an “equitable distribution” approach. That means the court tries to divide things fairly, but not necessarily down the middle. Factors like the length of the marriage, contributions from each spouse, and future earning potential all come into play. Each case is a little different, which is why it’s helpful to talk to a family lawyer early in the process.
Who Usually Gets Custody Of The Kids?
There’s no set rule. Courts look at what’s best for the child. That includes the child’s needs, the ability of each parent to provide care, the relationship the child has with each parent, and a few other factors. Shared custody is common when both parents are involved and able to co-parent. One parent may also get more time depending on the family’s situation.
What Happens If My Spouse Won’t Sign The Papers?
You can still move forward. In Iowa, one person can file for divorce even if the other doesn’t want it. If the spouse refuses to respond, the case can still go to court and result in a divorce through what’s called a “default judgment.” It might take a little longer, but it doesn’t stop the process entirely.
Contact Us Today To Get Started
If you have questions or want help with your own case, we’re ready to provide you with our 20+ years of legal experience. Reach out to Law Group of Iowa, and see how a family lawyer from our team can make all the difference.
