A dissolution of marriage where the parties disagree on one or more key issues, such as property division, child custody, spousal support, or visitation, requiring court intervention to resolve these disputes within the Alabama legal framework. For example, if one spouse seeks primary custody of the children while the other believes they are better suited to be the primary caregiver, the case will likely be considered contested.
The process allows for a fair and impartial resolution of marital disputes. It ensures that both parties have an opportunity to present their case and evidence before a judge, safeguarding their rights and promoting equitable outcomes. Historically, the evolution of family law has aimed to provide structured processes for resolving disputes that inevitably arise during the end of a marriage, reflecting societal shifts in values and expectations regarding familial responsibilities and asset ownership.
