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Contested Divorce

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Guiding You Through Your Divorce with Clarity, Compassion and Advocacy

Divorce is never simple. When significant assets, complex financial arrangements, or parenting disputes are involved, the process can feel overwhelming. At Clarkson Law, we guide you through every step with clear communication and steady guidance. Our goal is to keep you informed, supported, and empowered to make the best decisions for your family’s future.

What is a Contested Divorce?

A contested divorce occurs when spouses cannot agree on one or more important issues—such as property division, spousal support, child support, or parenting arrangements. In these cases, the court may ultimately decide the outcome.

Contested divorces can take longer than uncontested divorces—sometimes a year or more—especially if the matter proceeds to trial. Costs are higher than in uncontested cases, as they depend on the complexity of the issues and the amount of court involvement. Early settlement is encouraged to save both time and money.

Our Approach

Gather
Collecting and exchanging financial and parenting information

Discuss
Negotiation or mediation to
attempt settlement

Court
If needed, attending court hearings, case conferences, or trial

Resolution
Obtaining a final court order on
unresolved issues

Key Benefits We Handle in Contested Divorce

Even if your divorce starts as contested, that doesn’t mean it must end in trial. With proactive communication and a focus on solutions, we are able to settle most cases before they reach court—even in high-conflict situations. Our goal is to help you reach an agreement that protects your interests while reducing stress and uncertainty.
  • Protect your rights and interests when the other party is unreasonable or uncooperative
  • Ensure complex financial or parenting issues are addressed fairly
  • Provide a clear, enforceable outcome when settlement is
    not possible
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Compassion – We understand the human side of family law.

Progress - Keeping cases moving forward to reduce stress and delay.

Resolution - Reducing unnecessary conflict wherever possible.

How We Can Help

Communication – You receive regular updates so you always know where your case stands.

Empowerment – We provide guidance that allows you to make informed choices.

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Questions We Hear Often

View FAQs
You can apply for a divorce if there has been a permanent breakdown of your marriage. This can be shown in one of three ways:

  • Living separate and apart for at least one year

  • Adultery

  • Cruelty


For an uncontested divorce, once the one-year separation requirement is met, the court can typically grant a divorce in 8–10 weeks, depending on processing times. Contested divorces take longer—sometimes a year or more—because the court process involves multiple steps and hearings.

Why Clarkson Law?
We Do Things Differently.

We offer unparalleled care, transparency, and expertise with a personalized, hands-on approach focused entirely on your needs. We are here to de-escalate conflict and
deliver peace of mind.
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