If you find yourself served with a Petition for Dissolution of Marriage, do not fret that you weren't the one to file. It makes no difference for the most part. You will be known as the Respondent in the case. The person who files is known as the Petitioner. You have obligations even as the Respondent.
You need to file a Response to Petition for Dissolution of Marriage within 20 days of being served. A form for a response can be found on your county's superior court website or you can prepare your own. If you prepare your own, you need to read each allegation in each hopefully numbered paragraph in the petition and decide whether you admit it, deny it or don't have enough information to do either. You don't need to restate what the paragraph says but merely need to say whether you admit or deny the allegations in the specific paragraph.
Once you have prepared your response, sign it before a notary public, make 3 copies and take it to the courthouse. There will be a filing fee. The clerk will keep the original, stamp the two copies and return the copies to you. Keep one copy for your records and mail the other copy to your spouse.
And remember...
While you may find helpful insights or bits of information in this blog as it progresses, keep in mind that this is only being provided as general information to help you and others get started in this process. My first and best advice is to consult a lawyer knowledgeable in the area of family law. This is the only way to truly obtain advice directly pertinent to your situation. I am available for consultation by calling (928) 458-5026 to schedule an appointment.
