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I'm Ready to Start My Divorce - What Do I Do First?

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Divorce is an involved process with many steps. If you are ready to start your divorce, you need to talk with an attorney immediately. This should be your first step in the divorce process. A lawyer can learn about your unique case and then help you to begin your legal path to dissolution of marriage.

At The Law Offices of W. Douglas McKeague, we have over 33 years of trial experience. We understand the value of a lawyer and know what it takes to advocate for you in the family courts. After you have an attorney on your side, you can discuss details. You will want to determine whether you plan to file an amicable divorce or a contested divorce.

What is an amicable divorce?

  • Amicable divorces involve both adults
  • Both spouses must agree on the terms of the divorce
  • The spouses fill out the divorce petition together
  • When complete, spouses submit the divorce petition to the courts
  • The petition will outline all terms of the divorce including:
    • Property division
    • Child custody
    • Child support
    • Spousal support
    • Visitation

What is a contested divorce?
Some spouses are not able to get along and work through a divorce petition together. Instead, they need to battle out the terms of their divorce in the courts. Contested divorces involve arguing over the terms of the divorce and allowing a judge to decide all of these orders. After the orders are decided, they will be finalized and enforced by the court.

Allow an Orange County Divorce Lawyer to Guide You Through the Process

After you have chosen which divorce method will work for you, our team of attorneys at the Law Offices of W. Douglas McKeague can help you through your case. There is a lot of paperwork involved in the divorce, and we know how to make sure you file that paperwork accurately. We have an understanding and vision for divorce cases and have limited our practice exclusively to gamily law in order to best help you in your case. Contact us today to get an attorney that provides a high-caliber presence in any courtroom!

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