As a divorce attorney and psychologically trained mediator for over 35
years, I receive calls all the time from frantic spouses saying, “I’ve
been served with a summons for divorce, what do I do?”
I first tell them to breathe! Then I guide them with the following information:
I explain they have been formally put on notice that their spouse has filed
a petition for divorce. I also ask them to look at the summons and complaint
to see what their spouse is asking for, e.g., spousal support, child support,
distribution of assets, division of property, visitation, and so on.
Second, I tell them that when you are properly served, a clock starts in
court. In every state, there is a limit to the amount of time you have
to file an answer to your spouse's divorce summons. The number of
days you have varies from state to state. However, in every state, the
countdown begins the day you are served with your divorce papers. In New
York State it is 20 days.
Third, I tell them not to be afraid. There is help and there are a few
ways to respond.
My role as a divorce attorney and psychologically trained mediator is to
be legally informative and emotionally supportive in a sad and difficult
time. My role is to pave the path to productive discussions amidst a flurry
of very high emotions and to help a spouse make the right decisions.
If you are served with a summons, I suggest you do the following:
- Speak with a divorce attorney/mediator right away. Find out what your rights
are, and what you are entitled to.
- Consider negotiation or mediation as an alternative if possible. Mediation
is less stressful, not adversarial, more manageable, amicable, cost effective
and less time consuming.
- Acknowledge your emotions! They will range from tears, to anger, to wanting
revenge. It’s okay to feel sad and hurt!
- Don’t try to hold on to someone who wants out. You don’t need
to spend the rest of your life with someone who doesn’t want to
be with you. Consider speaking with a therapist as well! You deserve much
better.Hire a divorce attorney/mediator who feels right to you, someone
you connect with and who will guide, support, and fight for you and your family.
Struggling relationships often end in divorce because the couple has stopped
trying and drifted apart. Feelings are ignored and more often than not,
one spouse wants to stay, while the other spouse wants to go.
When a spouse decides to end a marriage, they have often made this decision
in response to their needs not being met, a breakdown in communication,
or simply not wanting to be married any longer.
If you get served with a summons, call me!
I will be happy to speak with you and walk you through your options.
Divorce doesn’t have to be so painful, divisive or expensive!
Having successfully served NYC for over 35 years as an experienced New
York divorce attorney and medically trained mediator, I can tell you a
divorce with less pain is possible.
Even though you have been served with a summons, negotiation and even mediation
in some cases is possible. Litigation may not be your only path.
Call me to schedule a free consultation. 212.734.1551.
All our
FREE CONSULTATIONS are still available virtually.
If you are served with a summons, call me first!
I, along with my team of amazing experts will provide you with comprehensive
support throughout the process!
Warm regards,
Lois
New York Divorce Attorney Lois Brenner is available to help you with your divorce!
Please call to schedule your FREE consultation now.
If you have been served with a summons, call Lois Brenner first!
Call 212.734.1551