No two divorces are easy, but when both sides can’t agree on the big stuff—like custody, support, or dividing property—that’s when it becomes a contested divorce. And let me tell you, these cases? They can be long, emotional, and exhausting if you’re not prepared.
At Mary E. Papcke, Attorney at Law, we’ve helped people from Parma, Middleburg Heights, Strongsville, and North Royalton work through some of the most heated divorce battles you can imagine. And while every story is unique, there are some consistent challenges—and some smart strategies—that can make the road a little smoother.
First, Let’s Be Honest: Contested Divorces Are Tough
There’s no sugarcoating it. When a divorce gets contested, things get personal. Fast. You’re not just splitting up assets; you’re dealing with broken trust, hurt feelings, and often, fear of the unknown.
Maybe one spouse wants full custody while the other insists on 50/50. Maybe someone’s hiding income or draining accounts. Or maybe you’ve got two people who just can’t agree on anything anymore—out of principle more than practicality.
Whatever the reason, contested divorces usually take more time, cost more money, and involve a whole lot more stress. But that doesn’t mean they’re impossible.
Strategy #1: Get a Plan—Not Just a Lawyer
This is where having the right legal support matters. At our firm, we don’t just show up to court and argue. We build a strategy that matches your goals, your budget, and your emotional bandwidth. I had a client in Strongsville who said it best: “I didn’t need a bulldog—I needed a game plan.”
That might include:
- Gathering financial documents early
- Lining up witnesses or experts (like a custody evaluator)
- Filing for temporary orders to protect your time with the kids or your access to joint accounts
It’s not about being aggressive for the sake of it—it’s about being smart and staying a step ahead.
Strategy #2: Don’t Let Emotion Drive Every Decision
This one’s easier said than done. Trust me—I’ve seen people go to war over a couch or a wedding ring just because they’re mad. And hey, no judgment. Divorce brings out a lot of emotions.
But every time you let anger lead, the process drags out. The bills get bigger. And the outcome might not even be what you wanted in the first place.
That’s why I talk with clients about prioritizing. What matters most to you? Time with your kids? Keeping the house? Fair support payments? Focus your energy there—and let the rest go when you can.
Strategy #3: Keep Records Like Your Life Depends on It
Because in court? It kind of does. Texts, emails, financial transactions, parenting schedules—these things can all become evidence. A dad from North Royalton once brought me a binder with every communication he’d had with his ex over the last six months. Guess what? It helped him win more parenting time.
If it’s not in writing, assume it won’t count. Keep things organized and save everything.
Strategy #4: Don’t Rule Out Settlement
Wait, what? Settle during a contested divorce?
Yep. It happens more than you’d think.
Even if you start out miles apart, negotiations or mediation can bring both sides to the table. Sometimes people just need time to cool down—or to see how much time and money the fight is costing them.
We always prepare for trial, but we never rule out a reasonable resolution. It’s not giving up—it’s choosing peace when it makes sense.
When to Dig In and When to Let Go
The trickiest part of contested divorce is knowing where to hold your ground and where to compromise. That’s where your attorney comes in.
At Mary E. Papcke, Attorney at Law, we’re not here to escalate conflict—we’re here to protect what matters most to you. If it’s worth fighting for, we’ll fight. If it’s better to move on, we’ll tell you that, too.
You Don’t Have to Go Through This Alone
Contested divorce is rough. It can wear you down. But with the right support and a clear strategy, you can come out the other side with your sanity and future intact.
If you’re dealing with a difficult divorce or just want to know your rights before things spiral, let’s talk. At Mary E. Papcke, Attorney at Law, we help people across Parma, Middleburg Heights, Strongsville, and North Royalton get through contested divorce with confidence and clarity.
Visit www.BankruptcyAndDivorceLaw.com or call (440) 743-7000 to schedule a consultation.
This isn’t the end—it’s just a new beginning, and we’re here to help you start it right.
