Attorney
Getting divorced is easy… in theory. It’s a straightforward legal process that hundreds of New Mexico couples go through each year.
But in practice, it is an unfamiliar, emotionally draining, financially straining mess. Knowing some of the hurdles you will encounter as you prepare to file for divorce can help make it less stressful, which is why Matteucci Family Law has put together this divorce checklist for couples in New Mexico.
Residency
Either you or your spouse must have lived in New Mexico for the past 6 months in order to get divorced here. Your case will be filed in the county where you or your spouse live, so the person filing must:
Grounds for divorce
New Mexico is a no-fault divorce state, which means it is not necessary to prove your former partner caused the marriage to fail through his or her misconduct or misbehavior. Even though one spouse may believe the other was responsible for the breakdown of the marriage, or committed some other wrong, airing petty grievances in court isn’t going to help that person “win” the divorce.
Fill out the appropriate forms
The New Mexico courts have standardized the divorce process and created a set of forms that all divorcing couples must fill out and file with the courts. It is possible to fill out these forms without the assistance of an attorney, but it is not advisable if you have children, own significant assets, owe a large amount of debt, or are fighting with your ex about some aspect of the divorce.
Fees
Anyone who files for divorce in the state of New Mexico must pay a court fee. If you cannot afford the court fee, you can request that it be waived.
It is important to note that this is just a general checklist. The steps you must take to prepare for divorce may vary depending on your individual circumstances. It is always best to consult with an attorney to get specific advice on your case.
Serving New Mexico Families with Dignity & Compassion
At Matteucci Family Law, divorce is something we deal with every day. We know the ins and outs, and what it takes to get our clients through it as quickly and fairly as possible. But from personal experience, we also know that being treated like you are just another family on the divorce production line is insulting. Your marriage, your family, and your life are special. You deserve to work with a firm that will cater to your needs, and help you navigate what is often one of the most challenging periods of your life.
Whether you are still considering your options, or are ready to file for divorce, Matteucci Family Law is ready to assist you. Please contact us today to schedule an initial consultation.