All services
Contested divorce
When you cannot agree, we protect your interests firmly and keep the process as calm and short as it can be.
Usually 9 to 18 months, depending on the court and the issues
Is this you?
You and your spouse disagree on money, property or the children
Your spouse already has a lawyer, or has filed
You need someone to negotiate for you, and go to court if it comes to that
The process
How it usually goes
Strategy meeting
We review your situation, explain the likely path and give you a cost range in writing.
Disclosure
Both sides share financial information. We make sure the picture is complete.
Negotiation
We try to settle through letters, meetings or mediation. Most contested cases settle here.
Hearing, if needed
If an agreement is not possible, we prepare your case thoroughly and present it to the judge.
In more detail
A contested divorce is one where you and your spouse cannot yet agree on one or more important issues. It is more common than people think, and it does not have to mean years of conflict.
We prepare every contested case as if it might go to trial, because that preparation is what makes a fair settlement possible. We also tell you honestly when a fight is not worth its cost.
Questions people ask
How much does a contested divorce cost?
Will I have to go to court?
Fees
Hourly, with a written estimate
How much this costs depends on how much is still disputed. After the first call we send you a written estimate and a monthly cap that you approve.
Hourly rates and retainers
Your lawyer for this
Claire Hartwell
Founding partner
Related reading
Guides for this situation
All guides
Already filed
7 min read
Financial disclosure: what it involves and how to prepare
Both sides must share their financial information. Here is how to make it painless.
Just separated
4 min read
Temporary orders: what they are and when you need one
Short-term rules for the children, the home and the bills while the divorce is in progress.
Talk it through, privately.
A free 20-minute call with a family lawyer. You choose how we contact you, and nothing you say commits you to anything.