Know the Laws: Alabama
UPDATED July 11, 2008
Divorce is a legal action that ends or "dissolves" a marriage. Divorce law is different in every state. Currently, we do not have Alabama-specific information about divorce on this website, but please see below for the basic steps and links to other online resources.
Below are sources for Alabama-specific information:
The Alabama State Bar
The Alabama Bar publishes an information pamphlet that explains the options and choices involved in divorce. It covers topics such as non-contested divorces, child custody, child support, visitation rights, real and personal property settlement, alimony, and attorney fees. The State Bar created this brochure to help inform people about their rights under the Alabama law. You can read the two-page brochure here: www.alabar.org/brochures/divorce-final.pdf
DivorceInfo
This website is maintained by the Alabama Family Law Center, a private law firm based in Birmingham, Alabama. It provides information on Alabama divorce law and a free divorce information phone line for people in the Birmingham area.
www.divorceinfo.com
DivorceLine for Birmingham area: 205-979-6960
In addition to free information, this company provides services and forms for a fee. WomensLaw.org has no relationship with this company and does not endorse its services. We provide this link and phone number for your information only.
Legal Services Alabama
www.alabamalegalservices.org
Legal Services Alabama is an independent, non-profit organization that provides qualifying low-income families with legal aid and assistance in civil matters. LSA is a statewide program serving all 67 counties in Alabama. LSA provides Self Help Legal Information, as well as helps you Find a Lawyer. WomensLaw.org has no relationship with this company and does not endorse its services. We provide this link for your information only.
To read the Code of Alabama divorce laws, visit the Alabama State Legislature website at : www.legislature.state.al.us/CodeofAlabama/1975/coatoc.htm
- What are the basic steps for filing for divorce?
- Where can I find additional information about divorce?
back to topWhat are the basic steps for filing for divorce?
While divorce laws vary by state, here are the basic steps:
- First, you must meet the residency requirements of the state.
- Second, you must have “grounds” (a legally acceptable reason) to end your marriage.
- Third, you must file divorce papers and have copies sent to your spouse.
- Fourth, if your spouse disagrees with anything in the divorce papers, then he will have the opportunity to file papers telling his side. This is called “contesting the divorce.” If he contests it, then you will have a series of court appearances to sort the issues out. If your spouse does not disagree with anything, then he should sign the papers and send them back to you and/or the court. If your spouse agrees with everything and signs the papers, this is called an “uncontested divorce.” Also, if a certain period of time passes and your spouse does not sign the papers or file any papers of his/her own, you may be able to proceed with the divorce as an uncontested divorce anyway. (Speak to a lawyer in your state about how long you have to wait to see if your spouse answers before you can continue with the divorce).
- Fifth, if there is property that you need divided or if you need financial support from your spouse, then you will have to work that out either in an out-of-court settlement or in a series of court hearings. Custody may also be decided as part of your divorce.
back to topWhere can I find additional information about divorce?
The National Council of Juvenile and Family Court Judges has a free, in-depth information packet called "Managing Your Divorce: A Guide for Battered Women," which you may find helpful, especially if you have to represent yourself in your divorce. There are also other information packets on related topics which can be found on their website at http://www.ncjfcj.org/content/blogcategory/256/302/.