If a couple does not get along, breaking ties with one another is an emotionally draining process. However, the situation worsens if your husband does not sign the divorce papers before the court. Deciding your next step becomes difficult as there is a rush of emotions. This article will discuss steps suggested by The Harris Firm, LLC that you may take if your husband refuses to sign divorce papers. So, here we go!
Steps to take if your husband does not sign divorce papers
1. Consult a divorce lawyer
Hiring a lawyer becomes even more important if your husband refuses to sign the paper at the last minute. As experienced professionals, they navigate the entire process and suggest the best course of action that you can take in such a situation.
2. File a petition
You can still move forward by filing a petition for divorce if your husband is not signing. The court will offer a petition to your partner. Further, they will be given a time limit to respond to this petition. If they do not respond within the given time period, the court will proceed with the divorce without their signature.
3. Consider mediation
It is one of the most commonly used methods in cases where one of the two parties does not agree to sign a divorce. In this situation, a third party enters and studies the entire case. Based on their judgment, they help you and your partner work through all disagreements and mutually agree to resolve the case. Compared to contested divorce, meditation is a less contagious and more affordable option.
4. Request a default judgment
If your partner does not respond to the petition filed by the court, you can request a default judgment. In such a situation, the divorce agrees to your divorce without your husband’s signature. However, such a judgment is not preferred as it may lead to unfair settlement. Therefore, it is recommended that you hire a lawyer before taking this path.
5. Ask the court for an agreement
If the divorce petition is filed and your partner does not sign but is ready for a fair settlement, you may ask the court to enforce an agreement. In such a situation, it becomes important to prove that both partners agree to a divorce.
Wrapping Up
Since each divorce is unique, every couple goes through different complexities. Therefore, you need a divorce lawyer for guidance at every step.
