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If you've decided it's time to end your marriage, the first step is filing for divorce and hiring an attorney. Divorce law varies between states, so it's important to research the rules in your area before proceeding. Here's what residents of Alaska need to know.

3 Steps to Filing for Divorce in Alaska

1. Determine Which Type of Divorce You Need

Divorce involves challenging compromises, like dividing assets and creating a child custody agreement. If you and your spouse can agree on these terms, you can ask the courts to grant you a dissolution of marriage. This means you've mutually agreed on the separation. If you can't agree on divorce terms, you'll have to go to court to get an order for divorce, in which a judge will determine the issues you can't agree on.

2. Complete the Necessary Paperwork

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You can find the documents you'll need online. If you and your spouse agree on the divorce, division of assets, and child custody and visitation arrangements, you can complete Dissolution Packet DR-1. If you agree on ending the marriage but not on key points, like alimony and the division of assets, you can complete the Uncontested Complaint for Divorce with Children Packet DR-10.

If you and your spouse don't agree about ending the marriage, you'll have to file the Divorce With Children Complaint Packet SHC-182. Additionally, there are different forms to complete if you don't have kids, so trust an attorney to advise which documents you need.

3. Serve Your Paperwork

As soon as the forms are complete, you must serve them to your spouse. Even if you and your soon-to-be-ex have already discussed the divorce, the service of process is a necessary legal step.

It proves that both parties involved are aware of what's happening. In contested divorces, this task ensures the other party has the chance to go to court and present their side to the judge.

 

If you want help filing for divorce, turn to Darryl L. Jones, Attorney at Law in Palmer, AK. Attorney Jones and his team have provided sound legal counsel to clients throughout Anchorage and the Matanuska-Susitna area since 1988. They'll take the time to understand your unique situation so that they can advocate for your wants and needs properly. Call (907) 746-9851 to schedule a consultation.

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