How to get divorced after one year of marriage

Whether you’ve been married for months, a year, or more, getting divorced is difficult. However, many spouses believe they can ask the court for an annulment after a one year marriage. While there are certain situations where an annulment is appropriate, most couples will need to file for a traditional divorce. If you and your spouse have decided to get divorced after a short period of time, an amicable or uncontested divorce, might be your best choice.

Keep everything easy

People getting divorced after one year of marriage generally have fewer joint assets or debts and typically do not have kids. Therefore, simple divorce options are attractive to couples who want an easy, less time-consuming, and less expensive divorce. In an uncontested divorce, you and your spouse agree on all divorce-related issues; and you settle the terms in a written agreement called a Marital Settlement Agreement.

However amicable a divorce may be however, being nice during divorce can still be difficult. As you negotiate the terms of your settlement, it’s important to keep in mind the big picture. Building a strong support network of friends and family in the early stages of your divorce can help you cope. Ultimately, acting amicably towards your spouse will help you both work towards shared goals.

Is there a need for a fancy attorney?

Because a divorce may be simple after one year of marriage, spouses may think divorcing without an attorney is a good decision. Mediation is often marketed and handled by non-attorneys. And often there are key legal facts that get overlooked. In choosing what route to go, do your research to assure that your mediator is an attorney.  Or if you choose a do-it-yourself option understand what you are getting for your money.  Furthermore, it’s wise to hire an attorney to review your settlement, whether you reach an agreement on your own or through mediation. The cost of a divorce attorney may outweigh the difficulties you could have at a later date.

At Green Giraffe Legal, we have many alternative divorce solutions to keep costs at a minimum.  However, all of our mediations are handled by an attorney and all final Marital Settlement Agreements are drafted by an attorney. Our motto is do it right the first time. 

In the end, you want a divorce that is as stress-free as possible and one that might also preserve some part of your relationship with your spouse. Being friends after divorce is possible if you choose your disagreements carefully, build a support network early on, and learn to play the long game.