Question #107: My spouse and i have been living apart for over a year. she has moved out of state. i served her with a summons and complaint and the time period that she had to respond has passed. she and her attorney are simply ignoring the deadline. what happens now? am i stuck waiting or do i have recourse if she just ignores the summons? how long do i have to wait to take the next step and what would the next step be?

I cannot overemphasize the need to use experienced matrimonial counsel when dealing with divorce or separation matters.
Assuming that all of your papers were in order , and your spouse was properly served, and the time has elapsed for her to answer, you can make a motion for a default judgment. Divorce and separation are too important to be left to self-help.

If you are living in the New York City metropolitan area , please call me at 212-370-1660 to discuss the matter at greater length.

Leonard M. Weiner, Esq./Divorce Solutions