Divorce in Alaska can be simple or it can be a fight. Which one you get depends on how much you and your spouse agree on, and on how the case is handled from the start.
Kaden Vanwey represents people on both ends of that range: couples who agree on nearly everything and want the paperwork done right, and people whose spouse has hired an aggressive attorney and who need someone in their corner.
Dissolution or divorce: which one applies to you
Alaska offers two paths. A dissolution is a joint filing where both spouses agree on everything: property, debts, custody, and support. It is faster and less expensive, and it ends with a short hearing. A divorce is what you file when there is disagreement on any of those issues, or when one spouse will not participate.
Many people start out thinking they can do a dissolution and discover a sticking point along the way. Kaden can help you sort out whether your agreement is complete enough to file jointly, and what happens if it is not.
How property is divided in an Alaska divorce
Alaska courts divide marital property equitably, which usually means close to equally but not always. The court looks at the length of the marriage, each spouse's earning capacity, health, contributions to the marriage, and who is keeping the family home, among other factors.
Property acquired before the marriage or received as a gift or inheritance is often treated as separate, but it can become marital if it was mixed with joint assets or used for the family. Retirement accounts, the Permanent Fund Dividend, hunting and fishing equipment, vehicles, and real property all have to be accounted for.
Spousal support in Alaska
Alaska courts can award spousal support (alimony), but it is less common than in some states and is usually limited in duration. Rehabilitative support helps a spouse get training or education to become self-supporting. Reorientation support bridges the gap while a spouse adjusts to a single income. Kaden will give you a realistic picture of whether support is likely in your situation.
What Kaden does for divorce clients
- Explains the process and your options in the first meeting
- Prepares or reviews the dissolution petition and agreements
- Handles contested divorce filings, discovery, and hearings
- Negotiates property, debt, and support terms
- Coordinates custody and parenting plans when children are involved
- Represents you at mediation and, if it comes to it, at trial
Kaden did a great job representing me in my divorce.
“Incredibly knowledgeable, thorough, and detail-oriented. What really stands out is his honesty and integrity.”
Divorce questions
How much does a divorce cost in Alaska?
The court filing fee is a few hundred dollars. Attorney fees depend on how contested the case is. An uncontested dissolution costs far less than a contested divorce with custody and property disputes. Kaden will give you an estimate at your consultation.
Can I get divorced if my spouse won't sign?
Yes. A divorce does not require both spouses to agree. If your spouse refuses to participate after being served, the case can proceed by default.
What if we own a business together?
A business is a marital asset like any other, but valuing and dividing it takes care. Kaden's background in business law is useful here, whether one spouse is buying the other out or the business is being sold.
Where we help with divorce
Kaden handles divorce matters for clients in Wasilla, Palmer, Anchorage, and the Mat-Su Valley. See all family law services.