A divorce case is initiated with a petition submitted to the family court. The petition sets out the grounds for divorce, any claims for custody, maintenance and compensation, and the supporting evidence. Jurisdiction also matters: the competent court is that of either spouse’s residence or of the place where the couple lived together for the last six months.
Uncontested Divorce
If the marriage has lasted at least one year and the parties agree on all consequences of the divorce — custody, maintenance, property division, compensation — an uncontested divorce is possible. A signed protocol is submitted to the court; if the judge finds it appropriate after hearing the parties, the divorce is granted, usually in a single hearing.
Contested Divorce
Where the parties disagree, the case proceeds as a contested divorce through the petition stage, preliminary examination, investigation and judgment. Witnesses are heard, evidence is collected and fault is assessed.
- Filing petitions and responses within the deadlines is critical
- Evidence must be declared during the petition stage
- Fault directly affects compensation and alimony claims
After the Judgment
The judgment is served on the parties and becomes final if not appealed in time. The final judgment is notified to the civil registry. Division of matrimonial property requires separate proceedings following the finalised divorce.
This content is provided for general legal information only and does not constitute legal advice on any specific matter.
Related Practice Area
Family Law