Question #58: Hi-My wife and I want an uncontested divorce. We want it to be fast and easy and not have to go to court. What grounds is best to use? She abandoned me over a year ago, but there was also cruel & inhuman treatment involved. We’re each willing to sign off on either or both grounds. Should we use both? Would that help the divorce go through? Or do the courts want you to pick only one – and if so, which one is better? Thanks & great website.

Abandonment is an easier “ground” to prove since it is clearly defined in the statute. Only one “ground” is necessary and if both of you are in agreement as to the “grounds”, the court will not bother to challenge it. However, there are many other matters ( e.g. child custody, child support, maintenace, division of marital assets, etc.) which require legal counsel to properly deal with these issues. If you are located in the NYC metro area,I strongly urge you to call me at 212-370-1660 to discuss mediating your divorce. Your decisions will have ramifications for, and will greatly impact the rest of your life. A divorce is too serious a matter to leave to “self help”! Leonard M. Weiner, Esq. / Divorce Solutions