Shreveport Uncontested Divorce Lawyer

LOUISIANA UNCONTESTED DIVORCE

When an Uncontested Divorce May Be the Right Fit

An uncontested divorce generally works best when both spouses are prepared to move forward and have resolved the issues that must be addressed. Agreement can reduce unnecessary conflict, but the process still requires accurate pleadings, proper service or waiver, attention to deadlines, and a judgment that fits the facts of the case.

ARTICLE 102 OR ARTICLE 103?

Louisiana law provides more than one procedural path. Under Civil Code Article 102, a spouse may file before the required period of living separate and apart has been completed, then seek the divorce after the applicable period and procedural requirements are satisfied. Under Civil Code Article 103(1), a spouse may file after the parties have already lived separate and apart for the required period. Civil Code Article 103.1 generally provides a 180-day period when there are no minor children of the marriage and a 365-day period when there are minor children. Covenant marriages are governed by different rules.

AGREEMENT SHOULD BE CLEAR—NOT ASSUMED

A case may appear uncontested while important questions remain about community property, debts, retirement benefits, custody, child support, spousal support, taxes, or the use of a home or vehicle. A divorce judgment does not automatically resolve every financial or parenting issue. Careful review before filing can help prevent an efficient case from becoming an expensive problem later.

WHAT THE PROCESS MAY INCLUDE

Depending on the chosen procedure and the facts, the work may include confirming jurisdiction and venue, preparing and filing pleadings, arranging service or a legally sufficient waiver, monitoring the separation period, preparing required affidavits or testimony, presenting the matter to the court, and obtaining a signed judgment. The exact steps and timing vary by case and court.

The Law Office of Jeremy Babers provides practical guidance for clients seeking an organized divorce process in Shreveport, Bossier City, and Northwest Louisiana. A consultation can help determine whether the matter is truly uncontested, which procedure may apply, and what should be resolved before documents are filed.

BEFORE YOU FILE

Confirm the Agreement

Identify every issue that is—and is not—resolved, including property, debt, custody, support, retirement benefits, taxes, and possession of major assets.

Choose the Correct Procedure

Article 102 and Article 103(1) begin at different points. The right filing path depends on the separation timeline, service or waiver, children, and the facts of the marriage.

Prepare Accurate Information

Gather the marriage date, separation date, addresses, information about children, prior orders, and any written agreements so the pleadings and judgment reflect the case.

Uncontested Divorce Questions

Does my spouse have to sign divorce papers?

Not always. Louisiana procedure requires proper notice unless a spouse legally waives service. A spouse’s refusal to sign does not necessarily prevent the divorce, but disagreement over requested relief can make the matter contested and change the required steps and timing.

What should I bring to my consultation?

Bring your marriage and separation dates, current addresses, any existing court orders, and written agreements. Identify questions about children, support, property, debts, and retirement accounts. You do not need to have every answer before asking for guidance.

How are fees and payment options discussed?

The work required depends on the procedure, service arrangements, and any unresolved issues. During your consultation, discuss the anticipated scope, legal fees, court costs, and available payment options before deciding how to proceed.