Savannah Contested Divorce Attorney
Finding Solutions in Complex Georgia Divorces
Divorce can be a heartbreaking, difficult time in your life, but it can be made even more difficult when your spouse refuses to agree to break up. In a contested divorce, you may have difficulty convincing your spouse to accept your wishes for a divorce. This can be frustrating and painful. Contested divorces also can be time-consuming and expensive.
A contested divorce means that there are unresolved issues at the time of filing. These can include the desire to divorce, but also child custody, child support, alimony, and the division of marital assets and liabilities. Many couples resolve these issues before filing to divorce, but if your spouse is uncooperative, you may be forced to take it to court. If settlement conferences and mediation have failed, litigation may be your only option to move forward and dissolve your marriage.
What Is the Contested Divorce Process in Georgia?
A contested divorce will go to court to be settled unless the couple comes to an agreement before their court date. If they do not agree, a divorce trial will commence, and each party will argue their side of the story.
- The first step to a divorce is to file a petition for a divorce with the correct court. The spouse who files will be known as the petitioner, and the other spouse will become the respondent. The petitioner will serve the divorce petition to the respondent, who then has 30 days to file their answer to the petition.
- When the petition has been answered, the process will move to the discovery period. The discovery period will last for six months, during which both parties gather evidence for trial. The discovery period may be shorter or longer, depending on the situation of the case. The purpose of the discovery is to provide as much information as possible to the judge so that they may be informed when making their decision regarding your divorce.
- There may be a temporary hearing at the beginning of the process. This establishes certain factors such as child custody and support, alimony, which spouse remains in the marital home, and visitation.
- During the formal trial, both parties will present their evidence and argue their side before the judge. The judge will make their decision, known as the Final Decree. In Georgia, most divorces are bench trials and occur before a judge.
Proven Representation from Savannah Contested Divorce Attorneys
At Johnson Kraeuter & Sanders LLC, our Savannah divorce lawyers have over 200 years of collective experience. Our team is committed to helping your family through this emotional process. We want to see you reach a brighter, stronger future. Our legal advocates have the trial-tested experience to handle your contested divorce proceedings, and we will strive to win the best possible outcome for you.
Contact Johnson Kraeuter & Sanders LLC today by calling (912) 421-2900 for a consultation.
Hear From the Families We’ve Helped
Our Reviews & Testimonials
At Johnson Kraeuter & Sanders LLC, your satisfaction is our priority! See for yourself what our clients have to say about working with us.
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"A great group of attorneys and staff."I have known several of them for years, and I have worked closely with them as both colleagues and as a client. I recommend this firm without reservation!- John R.
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"Flawless experience."It's really simple. If you have a personal injury case, Scott is the attorney you want to handle it. Competent, efficient, personable, and available, Scott directed my case to a quick and rewarding outcome. I could not have had a better experience.- Grant M.
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"Heartfelt thanks and deep appreciation."Heartfelt thanks and deep appreciation for the truly professional legal services, the balanced honest approach and the sensitive, personal touch provided by Super Attorney Paul Johnson.- K. King
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"Richard is the best!"He handled my divorce almost a decade ago and continues to take care of me with current litigation connected to that divorce. I feel profoundly safe and protected with Richard. There is no one else for me. Thank you Richard for everything!- Carmella
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"I would recommend Richard without any reservations."Richard is an outstanding attorney who is ethical and professional with his clients. He has strong litigation skills, and not only considers the legal strategies but the practicalities of solving the issue with alternative legal options.- Susan
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"Highly competent and effective execution."He took his time and explained the process and responded to all communication quickly. He displayed a high level of compassion and concern toward me easing the high impact of emotions involving divorce.- Camela
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"Best lawyer anyone could ask for."Mr. Sanders is hands down a true fighter. When he took my case he displayed a confidence that is rarely seen in cases similar to mine. He spent countless hours working with me to provide me with great detail and preparation.- Daniel
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"Richard is the most personable, reasonable, and understanding lawyer."Every question I have had has been answered with perfect clarity, in a timely manner. Mr. Sanders went far above and beyond my expectations. If you're reviewing law groups to handle your legal matters, your search ends here.- Bryce
Trusted When the Stakes Are High
Why Clients Choose Johnson Kraeuter & Sanders LLC
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Comprehensive Representation for Life's Most Important Challenges
From divorce and child custody to criminal charges and serious injury claims, our team provides experienced guidance through every stage of your legal matter.
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Respected Leaders in the Legal Community
Our attorneys are recognized by peers, trusted by judges, and honored with prestigious distinctions, reflecting a long-standing reputation for legal excellence.
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Personalized Strategies. Proven Results.No two legal matters are alike. We develop customized legal strategies designed to protect your rights, your future, and the outcome that matters most to you.
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Former Prosecutor on Your SideWith former prosecutor Frank Pennington on our team, clients benefit from valuable courtroom insight and strategic criminal defense representation.
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Trial-Tested When It Matters MostOur attorneys are experienced litigators who prepare every case for success in the courtroom, giving clients confidence whether negotiating a settlement or going to trial.
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A Legacy of Trusted AdvocacyMore than 200 years of combined legal experience delivering sophisticated representation across family law, criminal defense, and personal injury matters.