Divorce Articles


The following articles will give you a broad overview of some of the important aspects of New Mexico family law, like child support and property division.

Do I Need a Lawyer to get a Divorce?

There is no law in New Mexico that says a person must hire a lawyer to get a divorce.  For many people, it makes sense to hire a lawyer, but for others, doing it themselves is a realistic option.  At divorceNM.com, we can help you decide…  Read Article

Legal Separation or divorce – What is the difference?

If you have been considering a divorce, you probably have seen the term “legal separation.”  It is not a term familiar to a lot of people.  What does it mean?  Is it just leaving your spouse, or is it something more? In New Mexico, a legal separation… Read Article

Representing Yourself in a Divorce – What to Consider

Representing yourself in your divorce action may seem like a frightening idea.  You may think the laws are hopelessly complicated, and that there are hundreds of little technicalities just waiting to trip you up.  If you listen to the nay-sayers, you might wonder why anyone would even consider…  Read Article

Creating a Marital Settlement Agreement in a Divorce

Many couples who decide to get a divorce in New Mexico agree on a lot of the issues that have to be dealt with.  For example, both may agree that the children should spend most of the time with one parent.  Both may agree on who gets what property.  Both may want…  Read Article

Uncontested Divorce Without Children – What are the Steps?

If you are not familiar with it, divorce can seem like a hopelessly complicated process.  It doesn’t have to be.  A divorce action is just a series of steps.  Take them one at a time, and the process is not so overwhelming. If you and your… Read Article

Developing a Plan for Parenting After Divorce

Where do the children live?  When parents divorce, the custody of their children is perhaps the most important point to be decided.  It can also be frightening:  How do you raise children when you may not be living in the same home?…  Read Article

How to Calculate Child Support in New Mexico

When two parents get a divorce, the most important questions to be decided involve the children.  Most of these questions, such as where the children will live, and how often the other parent is able to see them, can be worked out between the parents themselves.  The one question… Read Article

Time-Sharing Guidelines: Factors to Consider for Co-Parenting and Visitation Rights After Divorce

Time-sharing refers to the schedule that defines each parent’s period of responsibility for the child. This includes regular time-sharing, holidays, and vacations. The goal is to maintain a good relationship between the… Read Article

Joint Legal Custody vs. Sole Legal Custody – What is the Difference?

Joint legal custody is one of the most misunderstood concepts in child custody cases. Contrary to popular belief, joint custody does not require equal time or equal money. Instead, it means that parents share major decisions for the five… Read Article

Preparing for Mediation: How to Create a Mediation Statement

When preparing for your mediation session, your first step will be to prepare a mediation statement. The mediation statement provides your mediator with a brief introduction to your case, any disputes between you and the other party, and what your… Read Article

Preparing for Your Court Hearing: Do‘s and Don’ts

The following identifies several questions you may have as you prepare for your hearing and provides helpful tips for courtroom etiquette. What Should I Wear to Court? Court is a business type of environment. Dress in a way that shows respect for the court. You should avoid … Read Article

What if I Cannot Afford the Filing Fee? Applying for Free Process in New Mexico

When you file for divorce, you will be required to pay a filing fee of $137. If you cannot afford the filing fee, you may ask the Court to allow you to file for free or at a reduced rate. The Court will decide whether your request for free process … Read Article

This post is also available in: Spanish