Dear Attorneys,
I hired my divorce attorney a couple weeks ago. So far, she has drafted the pleadings and had my soon-to-be-ex served. But now it’s radio silence. I want to be divorced by the end of this month! How do I force her to speed it up?
Sincerely,
Speed Demon
Dear Speed,
The cadence of a divorce matter ebbs and flows, just like most other things. In the beginning, your attorney probably needed information from you, wanted you to approve the Complaint, sign the Affidavit Concerning Children, and maybe even complete your financial affidavit. That can seem like a lot. However, most divorce matters are a bit “front-loaded” like that so that the pleadings can be filed (i.e. the matter initiated in the court). Once that is done, then the intensity of the matter often tapers off as not much more progress can be made unless a) the opposing party has already filed his or her appearance, b) financial documentation is ready to be exchanged and/or c) a parenting plan needs to be drafted. Since those items require the opposing party (or counsel) to act/comply, then your attorney may not be able to push forward on much of anything at this point in time. The majority of attorneys also do not want to “overwork” a file, which means that you may need to be the one to reach out if you have questions. That’s not necessarily a bad thing, either. As long as your lawyer’s office is responsive to your questions and concerns, you should rest easy. If you are questioning anything, be sure to ask, and they will most likely explain the current situation. It is difficult for a divorce to happen in under three months, but if both parties are invested in the expedience of it, then it may be an option for you.
Wolf & Shore Law Group is here to help you make your family law matters easier, not harder. We are realistic and direct with our clients. We encourage potential clients to seek out a firm where they will feel comfortable and confident. Ever argue with a woman? Let Wolf & Shore Law Group go to work for you. Call us at 203.745.3151 or email us at info@wolfandshorelaw.com.
Very Truly Yours,
Wolf & Shore Law Group
*The situations represented in our Dear Attorneys column are entirely fictional and any resemblance to a specific case is unintentional. We cannot, and will not, offer legal advice to anyone who is not a client. However, if you do have questions or concerns, you should contact an attorney at your convenience.
