You both agreed: no drama, no courtroom battles, no dragging it out.
You were ready to file for an uncontested divorce and start your new lives.
Everything seemed smooth… until it wasn’t.
At Catherine Ryan Law, we’ve seen it happen more times than we can count.
Uncontested doesn’t mean unbreakable. Here’s what to watch out for—and how to protect yourself when the plan changes.
What Is an Uncontested Divorce, Really?
In Georgia, an uncontested divorce means:
- You and your spouse agree on all key issues
- You’ve signed all necessary documents
- You submit your agreement to the court for approval
It’s faster, more affordable, and avoids court battles.
But just because things start that way doesn’t mean they’ll stay that way—especially if the agreement isn’t handled carefully.
Common Reasons Uncontested Divorces Fall Apart
Miscommunication
One person thinks the house will be sold. The other thinks they’ll keep it.
Or: “We agreed I’d get the car!”
Without a written, reviewed agreement, verbal promises can fall apart fast.
Signing Under Stress
Spouses sometimes agree to terms too quickly, just to “get it over with”—and later realize the deal isn’t fair.
Financial Discoveries
You learn about a retirement account you didn’t know existed.
Or debt that wasn’t disclosed. Suddenly, it’s no longer amicable.
Changes in Custody Plans
Maybe parenting time felt easy at first, but then someone gets a new job or partner—and things get tense.
Unclear custody schedules are one of the top reasons cases shift from uncontested to contested.
What Happens When Things Break Down?
If one person pulls back from the agreement, the case can become contested—meaning the court may need to intervene.
That means:
- Delays in processing
- More court hearings
- Potential for added legal costs
- Emotional toll for both parties—and the children
How to Protect Yourself
Even when everything feels amicable, you should still:
Have your documents reviewed by a family law attorney
Even if you drafted them yourselves or used online tools—one missed clause can cost you.
Be specific in your agreement
Don’t just say “we’ll split the bills.” Spell out who pays what, and by when.
Think about the future
What happens if refinancing falls through? What if someone moves out of state? Cover the “what-ifs” now.
The Right Help Keeps Things Peaceful
We believe in uncontested divorce.
Done right, it’s respectful, efficient, and empowering.
But done wrong, it can lead to long-term consequences, especially around:
- Debt responsibility
- Property transfer
- Parenting schedules
- Child support enforcement
- Retirement benefits and tax filings
Don’t Let a Peaceful Divorce Turn into a Messy One
Even if things are calm now, you deserve protection—and so does your future.
Let us make sure your uncontested divorce stays fair, final, and legally secure.
Schedule a consultation with Catherine Ryan today
Let’s make sure your uncontested divorce actually stays uncontested.