⚖️ CONTESTED DIVORCE IN ALABAMA: CLIENT INSTRUCTIONS
✅ STEP 1: Complete the Intake Form
Before your consultation, please fill out the intake form so we can fully understand your situation and begin preparing your case.
👉 Contested Divorce without Kids
This form asks for detailed information about:
Your marriage
Your children (if any)
Your assets and debts
The issues you expect to be disputed (custody, visitation, child support, property division, alimony, etc.)
🎥 STEP 2: Watch the Video – What to Expect in a Contested Divorce
We’ve made a video explaining how contested divorces work in Alabama, what to expect, and how we guide you through it.
👉
This covers:
The court process
Mediation/negotiation phase
Temporary hearings (if needed)
Trial preparation and procedures
💸 STEP 3: Understand Legal Costs
A contested divorce involves more time, preparation, and court appearances than an uncontested case.
Attorney Fees: Based on hourly billing or a flat fee depending on the complexity of your case. We will go over this with you during your consultation.
Filing Fee: Required by the court (Varies by county – Etowah County is $201.76).
Other Possible Costs: Process servers, mediation fees, custody evaluations, etc.
📄 STEP 4: Submit Relevant Documents
We will need copies of:
The most recent divorce or custody orders (if any)
Financial records (pay stubs, tax returns, bank statements, etc.)
Any evidence you believe supports your case (texts, photos, social media, etc.)
Please get these to us as soon as possible so we can evaluate your case and begin preparing.
🗓️ STEP 5: Case Timeline & Court Involvement
Contested divorces take time. Here's a general breakdown of what to expect:
Initial pleadings are filed with the court.
Temporary hearings may be scheduled to address urgent issues.
Discovery phase begins (gathering evidence and documents).
Mediation/Negotiation phase to try to resolve the case without a trial.
Trial preparation and court date if no agreement is reached.
We will keep you updated at every stage.
✍️ STEP 6: Stay Engaged & Responsive
Contested cases move quickly when all parties stay involved. Please:
Respond to requests for information promptly.
Be available for strategy meetings and document reviews.
Stay off social media if it could harm your case.
📬 STEP 7: We Handle Court Filings & Communications
Our team will:
File documents with the court
Communicate with opposing counsel
Represent you at hearings and trial
You’ll always be looped in and prepared for every step.
🔔 REMINDERS
Be Honest: Full transparency helps us fight effectively for you.
Stay Calm & Civil: We handle the legal fight — your job is to stay steady.
Ask Questions: We’re here to help. No question is too small.
