Divorce Financial Obligations Indiana

Summary

In Indiana, divorce involves equitable distribution of assets and debts, not necessarily equal. Spousal maintenance is rare and based on specific conditions. Since you separated shortly after marriage, you might argue that debts incurred by your spouse post-separation are her responsibility. Witness testimony can support your claims, but clear evidence strengthens your case. If a child is involved and not biologically yours, youre generally not responsible unless legally presumed the father. Divorce costs vary, and legal aid may be available if you cant afford an attorney. Uncontested divorces are typically cheaper, requiring minimal court involvement if both parties agree on terms.

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Okay. So she may have collected some debt since our marriage but we have been split since * weeks into said marriage. If I got a divorce. Am I liable for those debts even tho we werent together and she left
In Indiana, marital debts are typically divided fairly, which doesn't always mean equally. However, since you were separated shortly after marriage and have been living apart, you may be able to argue that the debts incurred by your spouse after the separation should be her sole responsibility. It's important to present clear evidence of your separation and her independent debt collection.
Would you like assistance connecting with a local lawyer to better assess your situation and help you through the divorce process?
No I can't afford that. I have another question tho
Sure, feel free to ask your question! I'm here to help.
During the * weeks. we never consummated the marriage. Also I don't really got evidence per say but her sister and brother in law were there and present the whole * weeks and saw how she treated me and when she left. Would that be enough
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In Indiana, the lack of consummation might be relevant for annulment, but not for divorce. Witness testimony from her sister and brother-in-law could support your claims. However, clear evidence, like communication records, would strengthen your case.
Do you have any other specific concerns?
What if she lies and says we were together for longer.
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If she lies and says you were together for longer, her claims would need to be supported by evidence. Your evidence, including witness testimony and any relevant communication records, will be important in proving your side. If possible, gather any documentation that shows your separation timeline.
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Okay. Also during this time. She has had a child. Am I responsible even tho we never had sex
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In Indiana, if you never had sex and the child is not biologically yours, you generally wouldn't be responsible for the child. However, if your name is on the birth certificate or if you were presumed to be the father (e.g., if the child was born during the marriage), you might need to address paternity formally.
Would you like further clarification on how to handle the paternity question in your divorce process?
No that's enough. Finally. About the debts if I show she tricked, used and ditched me early in the * weeks of marriage. Would you think the judge would let me not have her debts.
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If you can demonstrate that your wife tricked, used, and left you early in the marriage, the judge may consider this when deciding how to divide debts. Evidence and witness testimonies can strengthen your case. However, consulting with a local lawyer would provide more precise guidance tailored to your situation.
Would you like to ask anything else?
What is the average court costs of divorces
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In Indiana, the average cost of a divorce can vary widely. Generally, it can range from $*,* to $*,*, depending on various factors like attorney fees, court fees, and the complexity of the case.
Is there anything else you'd like to know about the divorce process?
Would the court provide a lawyer
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In Indiana, courts generally do not provide lawyers for divorce cases. However, if you cannot afford an attorney, you might qualify for legal aid or pro bono services from local legal aid organizations.
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Do they have a payment plan for court costs from divorce
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Indiana courts typically do not offer payment plans for divorce court costs. However, some local legal aid organizations or attorneys might offer payment plans or reduced fees based on your financial situation.
Would you like more information on finding legal aid services in your area?
How would the divorce go down
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In Indiana, the divorce process typically involves the following steps:
- Filing a Petition: One spouse (the petitioner) files a divorce petition with the court.
- Serving the Petition: The petition must be served to the other spouse (the respondent).
- Response: The respondent has a set time to file a response.
- Discovery: Both parties exchange information and documents.
- Settlement or Trial: The divorce can be settled through negotiation or mediation, or it may go to trial if an agreement isn’t reached.
- Final Judgment: The court issues a final divorce decree.
Do you have any more specific questions about the process?
Can we skip the whole court room
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In Indiana, it's generally not possible to skip the courtroom entirely for a divorce. However, if both parties agree on all terms, you can pursue an uncontested divorce, which may involve minimal court appearances.
Would you like to know more about the uncontested divorce process?
I can't afford divorce
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In Indiana, there are options to help with the cost of a divorce:
- Legal Aid: You might qualify for free or low-cost legal assistance through local legal aid organizations.
- Pro Bono Services: Some attorneys may offer pro bono (free) services based on your financial situation.
Would you like more information on finding legal aid services in your area?
Is a uncontested divorce cheaper
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Yes, an uncontested divorce is usually cheaper because both parties agree on all terms, reducing the need for extensive legal fees, court appearances, and other related expenses.
Is there anything specific you'd like to know about the uncontested divorce process?