New Mexico Same-Sex Divorce Lawyers

Legal Separation

LGBT couples may choose legal separation as an interim step to see whether they really want to divorce or if they can settle their differences and reconcile.

Couples may want to experiment by separating finances and property but still retain certain benefits provided by their married status, including healthcare, government, or insurance benefits. Note that if one partner has not been resident in New Mexico for at least six months, you cannot get divorced here. Legal separation may be a good interim option in this situation.

Uncontested Divorce

An uncontested divorce is possible when a couple agrees on all the major aspects of property division, support, custody, etc. This is generally the most desirable, most cost-effective, and least stressful form of divorce but you need to ensure that you are getting what you deserve.

In these cases, we can help by providing assistance to draw up a legal agreement that outlines all the key decisions that you and your partner make. We will ensure that it is legally enforceable and submit it to the family court of New Mexico for review.

Collaborative Divorce

Often in discussions about the terms of the divorce, same-sex couples cannot agree but are prepared to work together to negotiate a settlement.

Collaborative divorce is when each spouse hires a lawyer. These lawyers work together alongside the couple until a favorable out-of-court agreement is reached.

Mediated or Arbitrated Divorce

Same-sex couples with serious differences may not be able to agree even with a collaborative approach. However, they may still want to settle matters out of court. This is where a mediator or arbitrator can step in to assist.

In a mediated divorce, the couple hires a qualified mediator (who may be a lawyer) to attempt to guide the couple toward a settlement. Importantly, though, the final decisions still rest with the couple.

In an arbitrated divorce, the couple hires a professional arbitrator and agrees to abide by the judgment of the arbitrator for all outstanding matters in the divorce.

Each of these options can expedite a divorce case and limit the costs as the case is kept out of the courtroom.

Contested Divorce

A contested divorce is where a couple is unable to reach an agreement on one or more of the divorce issues – often multiple issues are involved

The divorcing couple may have used both informal and formal processes (mediation and lawyer collaboration) to try to reach a settlement but without success. In such cases, the divorce is settled in the family court. A judge will then be responsible for making the final decisions on the disputed issues and the outcome is out of your hands.

Why Are Our LGBT Divorce Lawyers Right for You?

Unfortunately, divorces frequently turn lives upside down in New Mexico. Confusion with the various laws relating to LGBT couples in the U.S. can confuse matters further. We believe that all separating couples should be able to face the future with maximum confidence and minimal conflict. Our same-sex divorce lawyers can provide specialist legal assistance to help you do that.

Not only will we support you in settling the key financial matters but you will find us compassionate and sensitive enough to understand the issues that you are facing and seeking resolution for. As potential collaborators, mediators, or litigators, the lawyers at New Mexico Legal Group are committed to helping you understand your rights, protect your interests, and move on.