Contested Divorce in Nevada

What is a “Contested” Divorce in Nevada?

There are two types of divorce in Nevada: “uncontested” and “contested.”

  • “Uncontested” means the parties agree on ALL issues.
  • “Contested” means they do not agree on ALL issues such as custody, property, debts, or child support.

Can I Get a Contested Divorce in Nevada?

A person can get a divorce in Nevada if that has lived in Nevada for at least six weeks prior to filing for divorce and has “grounds” for divorce (incompatibility, insanity for two years prior to the action, or spouses living separate and apart for more than one year). The practical effect of “incompatibility” is that anyone can get divorced simply because they are “incompatible” with their spouse.

What’s the “Real” Difference between the Two Types?

Uncontested is less expensive, quicker, and usually less stressful because the parties agree. Contested divorces go to court and there is more litigation.

Briefly - What is the Contested Divorce Process?

  • The Plaintiff files a Complaint for Divorce and the Defendant files an Answer and Counterclaim.
  • The Plaintiff files a Motion and the Defendant files an Opposition/Countermotion.
  • The parties go to the first Hearing and the Court makes temporary rulings.
  • If the case is not settled, the Court sets a trial.

Why is an Experienced Lawyer Important to My Case?

Family law is full of traps and pitfalls for an attorney inexperienced in family law. Family law is comprised of its own statutes, cases, court rules, and standard operating procedures. In addition, each Judge has their own way of doing things. For example, some Judges will refuse to allow one side to speak in a motion hearing if no opposition was filled while others will allow this. Some Judges allow oral motions while others do not. Some Judges hold that certain “requirements” are binding while others believe they are discretionary. In short, one should want a lawyer experienced in practicing at Family Court on a daily basis.

Who is Attorney David Mann?

Attorney Mann is one of the most prominent attorneys practicing primarily in family law in Southern Nevada.

  • Former Judicial Law Clerk at Family Court (viewed as the highest honor a law graduate can achieve - a Judge selected Mr. Mann who assisted in Chambers and worked on family law court cases).
  • Attorney Mann’s argumentation skills are built on the highest education: Master's Degree, Juris Doctorate, Former Ph.D. Candidate, equivalent of bachelor’s in Accounting, and B.A. in Communication Studies, where he studied argumentation, logic, and rhetorical theory.
  • High experience in business useful in high net worth divorces: Prior to his legal career, after his undergraduate degree, he started at a national CPA firm as a staff consultant. He later joined another large national CPA firm; eventually managing the Las Vegas consulting department and representing the firm nationally. He then founded an award-winning consulting firm. Mr. Mann has personally designed and implemented over 100 business management systems for some of the most prominent businesses in Southern Nevada in industries as diverse as transportation, gaming, sales, and services. He has personally been responsible for the implementation of accounting systems for companies as large as 500 million in assets. When it comes to business valuations and protecting assets, Attorney Mann speaks the language.
  • Committed to low-income families: Mr. Mann earned the Ask-A- Lawyer Community Commitment Award for Pro Bono Service in 2009.

Can’t I Just Use One of Those “Paralegal” Services for Divorce?

Nevada has no certification or licensing for “paralegals.” Anyone can call themselves a “paralegal.” “Paralegals” cannot give legal advice and cannot represent anyone in court.

Many “independent paralegals” provide standard forms that are used for many different people no matter their circumstances. This would be analogous to a hospital clerk prescribing one medicine for all illnesses. If money is the reason you are considering using a “paralegal,” then be aware that we offer a low price guarantee and payment plans. Also, consider that it usually costs much more to attempt to “fix” a situation then to do it right in the first place.

I Want to Talk to a Divorce Lawyer Right Now – For Free – What do I do?

Call our 24 hour attorney hotline at 702-373-1116. An attorney will answer.