Pending VAWA + uncontested divorce in NY — looking for others’ experiences

would really like to hear from people who have been through something similar.

I recently contacted a divorce lawyer in New York because I want to file uncontested divorce. At first, we discussed an uncontested divorce and the lawyer said it should be possible. However, when I mentioned that I have a pending VAWA case, the lawyer’s approach completely changed. They told me that I could file only for a contested divorce, but that it would cost significantly more money and take much longer.

I really cannot afford a long and expensive contested divorce, and I also don’t have the emotional energy to deal with my spouse or go through a long court process.

For those of you with a pending VAWA case:

• Is it okay to file for a no-fault, uncontested divorce while your VAWA case is pending?
• Does the divorce have to be contested because of the VAWA case?
• Did you tell your divorce lawyer that you had a pending VAWA case?
• If you did not disclose it to your divorce lawyer, did that cause any problems

I’m hoping to hear from people who have actually gone through a (NY) divorce while having a pending VAWA case.

I just want to end the marriage as peacefully and inexpensively as possible without having to deal with my spouse any more than necessary.

Thank you to anyone willing to share their experience.