[forevergrateful]

I have been served divorice papers by my wife. Am I required to sign them?

[stevetcg]

If you don't, a default order will be issued against you and it really becomes a moot issue... so technically, no, but realistically, it won't have any effect except a minor, insolent delay.

[anniebelle1]

Signing them is a formality, whoever served you has already told her that you have been served. There will be a hearing, at which time you /and your attorney can present your issues, i.e. division of property, custody of children, child /spousal support. If you ignore that as well, the divorce will be granted most likely, with whatever she asks the judge for, so it is in you best interests to become involved.

[s_cianci]

No, you're not. Are you being asked to actually sign them? Usually divorce papers are accompanied by a notice to appear and/or a time frame within which to file a response. And that's what you actually want to do right now ; file a response. It will be easier (but more costly) to have an attorney do it for you. It is also possible to do it yourself ; check with the local law library in your county's Superior Court, either online or in person. They will have sample forms as well as instructions for filing. If your situation is overly complicated, such as lots of marital assets to be divided up, then you should just put it in a lawyer's hands.

[JudyKayTee]

When you say "divorce papers" - what was actually served on you? Summons, complaint, an agreement for you to sign -
Could be just about anything that was served.

Won't be the first time someone prepared an agreement, had a process server hand it to the Defendant for signature and attempted to circumvent the system.

[JudyKayTee]

signing them is a formality, whoever served you has already told her that you have been served. There will be a hearing, at which time you /and your attorney can present your issues, ie division of property, custody of children, child /spousal support. If you ignore that as well, the divorce will be granted most likely, with whatever she asks the judge for, so it is in you best interests to become involved.

This is absolutely incorrect - without knowing what was served this is dangerous advice. Signing "them" could be a costly mistake.

[anniebelle1]

This is absolutely incorrect - without knowing what was served this is dangerous advice. Signing "them" could be a costly mistake.

He stated that he had been served divorce papers, notice that divorce had been filed? I didn't mean to infer anything else. Signing that you received service is not necessary, that is all I meant. Of course, documents should be read before signing anything, and if you don't understand what was served, consult an attorney. I apologize if I was misleading.