When Spouses Cannot Agree: Understanding Contested Divorce in Louisville

A contested divorce occurs when spouses disagree on one or more critical issues such as:

• Child custody and parenting time arrangements

• Child support calculations and payments

• Division of marital property and assets

• Allocation of shared debts

• Spousal maintenance (alimony)

Even when both parties want to end the marriage, Kentucky law requires complete agreement on all issues before finalizing your divorce without court intervention.

The Kentucky Contested Divorce Process

Mediation: The First Step Toward Resolution

When spouses cannot reach agreement, Louisville family courts typically order mediation. During this process:

• Both parties meet with their attorneys and a neutral third-party mediator

• The mediator facilitates communication and negotiation

• Mediation offers a private setting to craft personalized solutions for your family

• Many contested cases resolve successfully during mediation, saving time and money

When Mediation Isn't Enough: Going to Court

If mediation doesn't resolve all issues, your case proceeds to trial where:

• Each party presents evidence and arguments before a family court judge

• The judge issues legally binding decisions on all remaining disputed issues

• Timing depends on case complexity and court schedules in Jefferson County

Expert Support for Complex Cases

Louisville contested divorces often require specialized professionals such as:

• Forensic accountants for hidden asset investigations

• Business valuators for accurately assessing family businesses

• Child custody evaluators to determine the best interests of children

• Guardians ad Litem who represent children's interests in high-conflict cases

Kentucky Divorce Laws You Should Know

• Kentucky follows no-fault divorce principles, though fault may influence property division and maintenance awards

• At least one spouse must have lived in Kentucky for 180+ days before filing

• Spouses must live separately for at least 60 days before divorce finalization

• Parents of minor children may have to complete divorce education classes

• There's a mandatory 60-day waiting period after filing when children are involved

Why Choose Our Louisville Family Law Attorneys for Your Contested Divorce

A contested divorce creates significant emotional and financial challenges. Our Louisville divorce lawyers provide:

• Strategic negotiation to protect your parental rights

• Experienced courtroom advocacy when settlement isn't possible

• Thorough analysis of complex marital estates

• Compassionate support throughout this difficult transition

Don't face a contested divorce alone. Contact Louisville's premier family law attorneys today at (502) 861-7414 to schedule a confidential consultation, or fill out the link below.