A judge will issue a custody order designating which parent has physical and legal custody of their child or if the parents will share custody. It is usually best if both parents can work together to reach an agreement about their parenting plan without the court's interference. If they cannot reach a settlement on their own, the matter will go to trial, and the judge will make the final call.
How Long do Divorce Cases in Alaska Take?
Alaska law mandates a 30-day waiting period between filing for divorce and finalizing the decree. However, the timeframe can vary depending on several factors.
For example, uncontested divorces, where both spouses agree on all terms, typically take less time—around two to three months—to finalize compared to contested divorces that require court intervention to settle disputes like child custody, property division, etc. These cases can take several months to a year or even longer to resolve.
What Are the Residency Requirements for Filing for Divorce in Alaska?
Alaska adheres to a residency requirement for filing for divorce. To file in the state, either you or your spouse must be an Alaskan resident. This means you must be physically present in Alaska at the time of filing with the intention of staying.
If you were married outside of Alaska but your spouse is currently an Alaskan resident, you can also file for divorce there. However, it’s important to note that filing in Alaska doesn’t guarantee the court will have jurisdiction over all aspects of your case.
What Are My Options If We Can’t Agree on Dividing Our Assets?
If you and your spouse are unable to reach an agreement, the court will make the final decision. Alaska is an “equitable distribution” state, which means the court will divide assets and debts fairly but not necessarily equally.
The judge will consider several factors when making a decision, including the length of the marriage, the value of each asset and debt, the earning capacity of each spouse, and any contributions made by one spouse to the other’s education or career.
It’s important to consult with an Alaska divorce attorney like those at Denali Law Group. Our team will help you understand your rights and options regarding the division of your assets. Contact us to schedule a free consultation.
Why Choose Denali Law Group?
When unexpected legal challenges arise, you need to retain the services of a trustworthy attorney. In family law matters you should choose a firm like ours with a proven record in the community. We have a combined 75+ years of experience and are dedicated to helping our clients through cases involving divorce and all related issues.
Contact us to learn how our exceptional Alaska family law attorneys and legal staff can help you and your family.