Whatever the circumstances, divorce can be a challenging and emotionally charged process for couples. While every divorce is unique, there are standard steps that most couples go through.

This article aims to help you understand the typical steps of a contested divorce as a Marble client, so you can better navigate this life-changing event, and understand how Marble can support you at each stage. 

It’s important to keep in mind that because Marble works on a limited scope basis, your services may differ slightly (and timelines may vary state-by-state). Your attorney will walk you through each step your case requires, and you’ll pay a clear, fixed price for every service. 

Step 1: Filing for divorce

Summary:

This step is about reviewing your information, drafting and filing legal documents, and then waiting for the court to process that paperwork.

What we’ll do:

What you should do:

Important to know

It helps to speed things up if you provide your team with accurate information in a timely manner. This step can be influenced by several factors, like court processing time (which is outside of Marble’s control), so we recommend being patient as your case starts up.

How long this step takes:

This process can take from approximately three weeks to two months. As with every service we discuss in this article, timelines may vary state-by-state. 

Summary:

We get to work on serving your spouse with official paperwork if they reside in the US and we know where to find them.

What we’ll do:

What you should do:

Important to know

We generally attempt to serve your spouse at a single address only (usually the address you provide us with). Should you have new information, we may need to start fresh. This is an additional service.

How long this step takes:

This can typically take from three days to three months end-to-end.

Step 3: Waiting for the opposing party’s response

Summary:

We’ll know the next steps based on how the opposing party responds (or doesn’t). Patience is key at this stage.

What we’ll do:

What you should do:

Important to know

Patience is very important at this stage. Remember that you’ll be first to know when there’s a response, so we won’t have updates until the court contacts YOU. Based on how the opposing party responds, your attorney will contact you to recommend which additional services are needed to keep your case moving forward. 

How long this step takes:

This can take approximately three to four weeks.

Step 4: Providing the required financial documents

Summary:

This is when you’ll provide us with your financial documents within a set deadline based on a list we give you.

What we’ll do:

What you should do:

Important to know

The judge requires these documents to move your case forward. Before securely uploading them to your Marble home, ensure nothing is left out. 

Always upload before the deadline. If you miss your deadline, the judge may dismiss your case (we’ll remind you of your upcoming deadlines and try to help you as much as possible).

How long this step takes:

This can take from approximately two weeks to two months.

Step 5: Issuing temporary orders

Summary:

Temporary orders are designed to address immediate concerns while you wait for a final court order. They can address anything from spousal support to property division to child custody and beyond. 

What we’ll do:

What you should do:

Important to know

This is usually an additional service and is only added if you need it. The outcome decided on by the judge is final, until your case is done and there’s a final judgment. We’ll do our best to advocate for you, but we advise you to keep your expectations reasonable. You may not get everything you feel you’re entitled to.

How long this step takes:

This step may take approximately two to four months.

Step 6: Mediation and settlement

Summary:

Mediation is a process during which you and your spouse try to settle issues out of court with the help of a mediator. The mediator will prepare a settlement agreement after the session based on what you both agree to. 

Note: Some states require a couple to go through mediation even if they plan to go to trial.

What we’ll do:

What you should do:

Important to know

Mediation and settlement are usually faster, less expensive, and less stressful than going to trial. However, if you and your spouse can’t agree, you must go to trial. One of the downsides of going to trial is that the judge decides what you and your spouse take from the divorce – you won’t be able to negotiate afterward.

How long this step takes:

This step can take approximately two to six months.

Step 7: Discovery

Summary:

Discovery or “information gathering” is when you and the opposing party request and share information, including about your finances. This helps both of you see the full financial picture to reach a fair resolution. Discovery is usually required for cases that go to trial but can be beneficial even if you decide to settle out of court.

What we’ll do:

What you should do:

Important to know

It’s important that you’re honest and forthcoming with the information you provide. If the court discovers any hidden information, this could impact the timeline of your case significantly. 

How long this step takes:

The timeline for discovery varies significantly based on your court. 

Step 8: Trial

Summary:

A trial is a formal process in which a judge examines the evidence in a case, may talk to witnesses, and then makes a judgment. 

What we’ll do:

What you should do:

Important to know

A judge decides on the outcome of a trial, and their decision is final. We’ll try to help you get everything you want, but we cannot guarantee your case outcome. If your hearing is longer than one day, this may be an additional service and could affect how long it takes to close your case.

How long this step takes:

A trial may take from approximately six to eight months, but it varies depending on the court.