uncontested divorce now she wont sign the papers

[McPherson]

i live in the state of washington, i have been seperated from my wife for 11 years, i have 2 children they both live with her,during this seperation i have paided child support, my wifes medical insurance and any additional costs that accured that included the children. i finally filled for divorce my wife said she would sign the papers for an uncontested divorce but now that she has the papers she will not sign them. i know she is holding back knowing i want to get married and buy a house, this has not been discussed or rubbed in her face at anytime in the last 11 years. do i have to get another lawyer and file papers for a contested divorce for this to become final....help

 

[dorenephilpot]

I'm a lawyer in Indiana, so I can explain how it would work here only. Don't know the laws of your state:

She can STALL a divorce, but she can't prevent it from happening.

You or your attorney will need to petition the court for a final contested hearing. If she shows up, the court can order the terms of the divorce, and you can be done. If she fails to show up, she can be cited for contempt, which carries a variety of penalties.

(Courts don't like it when they set up hearings, give proper notice and folks don't show up.)

Yes, you probably are going to need an attorney to make this whole thing happen in a timely, expeditious fashion.

If you have other questions, I'm at [email protected].