Jackson Contested Divorce Attorneys

Condonation is the legal term for forgiving your spouse's marital misconduct. If you discover an offense like adultery but choose to resume marital relations or continue living together as a couple, the court may view this as “condoning” the behavior. 

This can entirely erase that specific offense as a valid ground for a fault-based divorce. However, this only applies to previously known conduct. If bad behavior is repeated without your knowledge, you may have grounds to file for a contested divorce. 

We understand how frustrating it is to have an honest attempt at saving your marriage legally weaponized against you. Our attorneys can review the timeline of your separation to reduce confusion and build a strategic case.

What if I Want a Divorce, But My Spouse Does Not? 

If your spouse doesn’t agree to a divorce, you cannot file on the ground of irreconcilable differences. Instead, the only path forward is a contested, fault-based divorce.

This means you are legally required to provide clear evidence for one of the state’s fault grounds, such as adultery, cruel and inhuman treatment, or desertion.

Feeling trapped in a marriage with an uncooperative or vindictive spouse can feel incredibly overwhelming. We can help you identify viable fault grounds, gather the rigorous evidence required for your contested divorce, and aggressively fight for your freedom and financial future in court.

Does Mississippi Have a Mandatory Waiting Period for Divorce?

Yes, but only for no-fault divorces based on irreconcilable differences. The statutory waiting period is 60 days, which cannot be waived or shortened by a judge. Contested divorces aren’t subject to a mandatory cooling-off period. 

Understanding the Divorce Litigation Process

Understanding what to expect during divorce litigation can reduce uncertainty and help you make informed decisions about your future. This process generally includes the following stages:

Complaint & Answer

A contested divorce begins when one spouse files a Complaint for Divorce. The other spouse generally has 30 days to file a formal response and may also file a Counterclaim requesting relief of their own. We can prepare filings, explain your legal options, and help position your case strategically from the outset.

Discovery & Information Gathering

During discovery, both parties exchange information and documents relevant to the divorce, such as financial records, property information, and other evidence related to custody, support, or marital assets.

This phase can involve written questions (interrogatories), requests for documents, subpoenas, and sworn testimony during depositions. We can work to uncover critical information, identify inconsistencies, and build a clear factual record. 

Witness Preparation & Case Development

Some divorce cases involve testimony from family members, financial professionals, medical providers, or other witnesses. Our attorneys can identify relevant witnesses, prepare testimony, and organize supporting evidence to strengthen your case. 

Temporary Hearings & Negotiations

Before trial, the court may address temporary matters pertaining to child custody, visitation, child support, or possession of the marital home in ongoing settlement negotiations. We advocate for practical solutions while remaining fully prepared for a potential trial.

Trial 

If the parties cannot reach an agreement, the case proceeds to trial, where both sides present evidence, examine witnesses, and argue their positions. Our lawyers focus on presenting organized, evidence-backed arguments to clearly communicate your side of the case while protecting your rights in and out of the courtroom. 

Post-Trial Motions & Appeals

In some situations, additional legal proceedings may follow the final judgment, such as motions to modify or enforce court orders or appeals challenging certain rulings. We offer ongoing assistance after trial to protect our clients’ futures.

Put an Award-Winning Divorce Firm on Your Side

When your future is at stake, you need a law firm you can trust to keep your family’s best interests at heart. Our attorneys are dedicated to helping families regain their strength by delivering compassionate advocacy and candid counsel. We pride ourselves on having the highest possible rating from Martindale-Hubbell®, underscoring our proven results and commitment to professional excellence. 

Take the first step toward a brighter chapter by partnering with our caring contested divorce attorneys. Call (601) 202-5594 to schedule a consultation.