A contested trial is a hearing that is both time-consuming and expensive at which you, your spouse, and possibly expert witnesses may testify primarily about financial issues and matters relating to children. The conduct of your spouse is only one of approximately 20 factors, which the court takes into consideration in divorces and is usually the least-considered factor, unless the conduct is extreme.

After a trial has concluded, the judge will enter a Judgment (a written decision) by which you and your spouse will be bound, and your divorce will enter on that date. Your divorce would then become final 90 days from that date of the divorce judgment.

Either party may appeal the judge's decision; however, bear in mind that not only are appeals expensive, but it is also very difficult to win an appeal in a divorce case. Judges have wide discretion in deciding Divorce or Divorce related matters. Therefore, by attempting to resolve all issues by agreement in your case, you will, in essence, be maintaining control over your own financial destiny, as well as custodial and visitation arrangements, rather than having a perfect stranger, a judge, make those decisions for you.