Your spouse serves you with divorce papers, showing you that they are petitioning the court for a divorce and that they want to end the marriage. They tell you to make sure to respond by the deadline, although you do have some time to consider the terms, get your paperwork in order, talk to your lawyer and much more.
Exactly how long you have depends on what state you live in, and it can differ substantially across the United States. In Kentucky, it is important to note that you generally have 20 days to file your response. So, while you should not assume that you have to submit that response immediately and you do have time to consider your options, it is also important not to procrastinate for too long.
What happens if you miss the deadline?
Missing the deadline can affect your ability to be involved in the divorce case. But it certainly does not prevent the divorce from happening. Often, your spouse then has the option to ask the court for a default divorce judgment. They can still get the divorce, even if you never respond.
Without your response and participation, though, you may be excluded from important decisions. You will not have as much of a say in how child custody rights are divided, for example, or how marital property is divided. By responding within the 20-day deadline, you ensure your own involvement, and you can negotiate with your spouse over the terms of the divorce—or navigate a court case, if the divorce has to go through litigation.
Protecting your rights during divorce
Responding to the divorce papers is just one of the first steps you should take when your marriage is coming to an end. Be sure you know what legal options you have to protect your rights throughout this legal process.