What is an Uncontested Hearing?
An Uncontested Hearing is the final step in the divorce process, after which the marriage of the parties is dissolved. An Uncontested Hearing occurs only after the parties have reached an agreement on all outstanding issues and memorialized that agreement into a written Separation Agreement and Parenting Plan (if applicable). Generally, both parties will be required to appear in Court on that date. The actual Uncontested Hearing only takes about 15 – 20 minutes.
What Documents need to be Prepared/Submitted before an Uncontested Hearing?
Prior to an Uncontested Hearing, the parties are required to electronically submit or “e-file” certain documents and forms. In every case, their Separation Agreement and Financial Affidavits must be e-filed. If there are minor children the following documents must be e-filed: the parties’ Parenting Plan, Child Support Guidelines, and an Affidavit Concerning Children. If there is an award of alimony or child support, an Advisement of Rights re: Income Withholding must be e-filed. Finally, if the parties have elected to waive the twenty-day appeal period, a Stipulation to that effect is typically e-filed as well.
Do I have to take the Witness Stand in an Uncontested Hearing?
If you are the Plaintiff, yes. You will be called to the witness stand, sworn under oath, and asked certain questions by your attorney and potentially the other attorney or the judge. The Defendant is typically asked fewer questions under oath, and usually remains at counsel table.
What Questions will I be Asked?
Both parties will be asked about the agreement: whether they read it, signed it, understand it, believe it to be fair and equitable under the circumstances, believe it to be in the best interests of the minor children (if applicable), signed it of their own free will absent coercion or duress, and would like it to be entered as a Court order? If either or both parties have agreed to waive alimony, he, she, or they will be asked if they understand that if alimony is waived, they cannot later make a claim for alimony. The Plaintiff will be asked basic background questions: when and where the parties were married, the names and birth dates of the minor children (if applicable), whether or not either party or any minor child is receiving state aid, and if the marriage of the parties has broken down irretrievably with no hope of reconciliation? The Plaintiff will then be asked about the salient points of the parties’ agreement. This exercise will generally not be repeated with the Defendant. Instead, he or she will be asked if he or she agrees with the Plaintiff’s responses.
What Happens After the Canvas?
After both parties have been canvassed, the Court will make certain findings: that it has jurisdiction, when and where the parties were married, the names and birth dates of the minor children (if applicable), the presumptive amount of child support pursuant to the Child Support Guidelines and whether or not the application of the Guidelines is appropriate under the circumstances (if applicable), that the Parenting Plan is in the best interests of the minor children (if applicable), and that the parties’ agreement is fair and equitable. After it has made its findings, the Court will order the marriage of the parties dissolved and the maiden or prior name of the wife restored if she so desires.
Is my Divorce Final that Day?
Yes, provided the parties have agreed to waive the twenty-day appeal period.
Can I have my Maiden Name Restored?
Yes. As part of an Uncontested Hearing, you may request that the Court restore your maiden or prior name. While the restoration of that name is a valid Court Order, there is still follow-up work to be done such as going to the DMV or Social Security Office.
Are there any Final Documents that I need?
Yes. You should keep copies of all of the Uncontested Documents in a safe place. It is also advisable to obtain Certified Copies of your Judgment File and Certificate of Dissolution of Marriage. You may need these documents to prove that you are divorced or to complete the process of restoring your prior name. At Broder Orland Murray & DeMattie LLC, we will prepare and send to you a packet of all Uncontested Documents.
At Broder Orland Murray & DeMattie LLC, we have extensive experience in settling cases and attending Uncontested Hearings throughout Connecticut, including Stamford, Bridgeport, Danbury, and New Haven. Uncontested Hearings may seem intimidating, but our skilled and compassionate attorneys will ensure that you are adequately prepared to bring your case to a conclusion.
This Week’s Blog by Nicole M. DiGiose.
