Can I Go From a Contested to an Uncontested Divorce in Kansas City?
Divorce doesn’t always follow a straight path. What starts out as a courtroom battle can sometimes shift into a more peaceful, cooperative process. If you and your spouse began with a contested divorce but are now finding common ground, you may be able to convert it into an uncontested divorce—even after the case has already been filed.
Understanding the Difference Between Contested and Uncontested Divorce
Before you can move from a contested to an uncontested divorce, it helps to know the key differences between the two:
- Contested Divorce in Kansas City: This happens when spouses cannot agree on one or more issues such as child custody, property division, or spousal support. These cases often involve formal court procedures, multiple hearings, and potentially a trial. They tend to take longer, cost more, and create more emotional strain.
- Uncontested Divorce in Kansas City: In an uncontested divorce, both parties agree on all terms of the divorce. There is no need for a trial, and once all required documents are filed, the court can finalize the divorce quickly—often without either spouse appearing in court.
The major difference comes down to agreement. If you and your spouse can reach a full agreement, whether early on or later in the process, it is possible to switch from a contested to uncontested divorce in Kansas City.
How to Transition from Contested to Uncontested Divorce
Even if your divorce started off rocky, it’s possible to resolve disputes and reach an agreement. Here’s how the transition works:
1. Open the Lines of Communication
After the initial filing, many couples find that emotions calm down, making productive conversations possible. When both spouses are willing to communicate openly—either directly or through attorneys—it becomes easier to explore compromise.
2. Use Mediation or Collaborative Divorce
A neutral mediator or collaborative attorney can help both parties work through disagreements and find mutually acceptable solutions. These out-of-court methods are designed to encourage resolution without litigation.
3. Finalize a Full Agreement
To move from a contested to uncontested divorce, both parties must agree on all relevant issues:
- Property and debt division
- Parenting time and legal custody
- Child support
- Spousal support (if applicable)
Once a full agreement is reached, your attorneys can draft a Marital Settlement Agreement and submit it to the court.
When Is It Not Possible to Make the Switch?
Unfortunately, not every case can shift to an uncontested process. A contested divorce in Kansas City may be unavoidable if:
- One spouse refuses to negotiate in good faith
- There’s a history of domestic violence or coercive control
- One party is hiding assets or income
- Fundamental disagreements cannot be resolved, even with professional help
If any of these apply, staying in the contested divorce process may be the only way to protect your rights.
Benefits of Moving to an Uncontested Divorce in Kansas City
Making the switch from a contested to an uncontested divorce can dramatically improve the divorce experience. Here’s how:
- Faster Resolution: Without the delays of court scheduling or formal discovery, uncontested divorces move forward much more quickly.
- Lower Costs: Court battles can be expensive. An agreement cuts down on legal fees, expert witnesses, and court appearances.
- More Privacy: Your settlement remains private, unlike court proceedings which are often public record.
- Less Conflict: Working toward a resolution outside of court encourages cooperation and reduces stress for both parties—and for your children, if you have them.
- Greater Control: You and your spouse, not a judge, decide what happens with your property, finances, and family.
The earlier you can make the transition from a contested to uncontested divorce in Kansas City, the more you may benefit from these advantages.
Work with Kansas Legal Group to Take Control of Your Divorce
At Kansas Legal Group, we help clients across Kansas City move from conflict to resolution. Whether your divorce is just beginning or already filed, we can assess your situation and determine if transitioning from a contested to uncontested divorce is a realistic and strategic option. Our attorneys are skilled in both negotiation and litigation. We’ll help you identify opportunities for agreement, guide you through the paperwork, and protect your rights every step of the way.
Take the first step toward a smoother divorce. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and find out if an uncontested divorce in Kansas City is possible in your case.