After a divorce is filed what can you expect to do in court proceedings?

  • After a divorce is filed, it’s important to understand what proceedings will follow.
  • First, the other party should answer the filing. If not, a default will be granted after the jurisdictional period of six months or more in the case of a no-fault.
  • Next, the court examines ancillary matters such as property division or alimony. In those two cases, both parties must file documents listing all assets and debts, incomes and budgets.
  • Next, a pre-trial conference will be scheduled to see if the issues involved can be settled. If not, a hearing on ancillary matters will be scheduled including a list of witnesses and timetable for the hearing. This hearing is usually scheduled 6-8 months after divorce is granted.