Filing divorce in Honolulu

A Honolulu separation or divorce is a difficult process to begin, no matter what the circumstances surrounding your marriage.  Sheila Vierra, Attorney At Law, wishes to ease the burden of that process as much as possible by making you aware of the various steps involved in a divorce.  This helps you to understand what to expect at each stage, and how to make each one go smoothly.

The steps toward divorce or separation in Honolulu

Described below are the steps required to file for divorce or separation:

• Step #1: Meeting residency requirements.  You must meet the residency requirements in order to file for a Honolulu separation divorce.  At least one spouse must be a state resident for six months.

• Step #2: Initiation.  One spouse (the plaintiff) initiates the divorce or separation filing.  Under Honolulu divorce law, the separation petition must be filed in the district in which the plaintiff resides (the plaintiff is the individual requesting the divorce).  Although the couple may be in agreement regarding the end of the marriage, one spouse or the other must file the original petition.  Alternately, the petition may be filed in the district in which the couple last lived together.

• Step #3: Serving.  The other spouse (the defendant) is served with the divorce or separation petition.

• Step #4: A hearing.  You attend your Honolulu separation or divorce hearing.  This is where both you and your spouse appear in court before a family judge.  Unresolved issues such as asset, property, and debt division are decided, as well as those concerning child custody, spousal support, or child support.  If the divorce is contested, the attorneys retained by you and your spouse may be present in order to advocate for each of you.

• Step #5: Decree.  Your divorce decree is issued, and your marriage is legally dissolved.

When filing for divorce in Honolulu, it is important to ensure that each step is followed correctly, and is completed in the right order.  It is also wise to have qualified legal guidance if complications arise at any point during the process.  Discuss your case with Sheila Vierra, Attorney At Law.  With over 20 years of experience in family court, our firm can provide the skilled and caring services that you need over the course of your separation in Honolulu.

Contact us to file divorce in Honolulu

Whether you need legal representation in matters of family law, estate planning, or retirement planning, we have the skills and experience to help.  Contact Sheila Vierra, Attorney At Law, at (808) 538-0520.