Senior Associate
It is probably common knowledge that courts are open but handling most matters virtually due to Covid-19. Obviously, this can slow down how fast a matter is processed from beginning to end in many cases. But what surprises some people is that couples seeking an uncontested divorce might be able to get one more easily and cheaper than before Covid-19. The reasons are simple, actually.
For couples with minor children, the required court-approved parenting program can be done virtually, saving people travel time going to and from an in-person class.
Judges Must Approve The Separation Agreement
And for all divorcing parties, before a settlement is final, a judge must approve the separation agreement. Before Covid, the separation agreements were reviewed in a physical courthouse, with both parties present usually. This would involve travel time and waiting time because there would often be many parties waiting to see the same judge. Now that courts are working virtually, judges often review these agreements, with the parties appearing via zoom. The parties’ time to appear is more specific than before, which cuts out driving time and significantly cuts down on waiting time. And that saves money because it leads to less time spent by counsel getting the agreement approved.