Do you really need a lawyer for a divorce in Arizona?
Do you really need a lawyer for a divorce in Arizona?
Many people are unsure if hiring a lawyer to represent them in a contested or uncontested divorce will help save time and money. But is this really necessary? Let's look at the pros and cons of each. Learn more to determine if a lawyer is right for you. Don't forget about the pros and cons of each. We'll also be discussing the differences between contested or uncontested divorces.
Cost of a Divorce
Although the costs for a contested or uncontested divorce can vary, the same principles apply to them both. An uncontested divorce is simpler to finalize, but it can cost more to file for a hearing. The attorney fees and court fee are usually the same. However, a divorce that is contested can lead to additional costs. You can have a trial to dispute child support, maintenance and pensions or property division. These can add to the total divorce settlement.
Mediated divorce is affordable if the couple is able to reach an amicable agreement and there is no attempt to conceal anything. A couple can reach a settlement agreement through mediation before filing for divorce. Some states require that divorces be mediate before filing, and judges can require mediation in specific cases. It is important to realize that mediation may not work in all cases.
Uncontested divorces, while more expensive than contested ones, are usually the most affordable. A contested divorce costs more than $10,000 including attorney fees and court costs. An attorney can be costly, but it can help you protect your rights. One study found that 11% spent $100 or more an hour on an attorney and 20% paid $400.
Will A Divorce Take A Long Time To Settle?
When you're thinking about getting divorced, you're probably wondering about the differences between a contested and an uncontested divorce. Although both are legal, uncontested divorces tend to be less expensive. Uncontested divorces, however, are not for everyone. Even if you have agreed to file for divorce, that doesn't mean it will be an easy process. If you and/or your spouse can't agree on any major issues, you will need to hire an attorney or mediator. You may be able even to divorce your spouse without the help of a lawyer in some cases.
If you and your spouse agree on everything, an uncontested divorce will generally take about six weeks. The timeframe for divorce can vary depending on the circumstances. Some divorces are quick and simple, taking less than six weeks. Others can take months to resolve. It can take even longer if your spouse has been slow in returning paperwork. In either case, a lawyer may be necessary.
The most obvious difference between contested and uncontested divorces is the length of the process. The whole process can take months, if not years, if one of the parties refuses to compromise. However, uncontested divorces are much more straightforward because no one disputes anything. This type of divorce typically involves a lot more stress, which means that both parties have to spend more time and money on the divorce.
Uncontested vs Contested Divorce: What are the Requirements?
Your state's specific laws will dictate whether you need to hire a legal representative for contested vs uncontested divorce. Uncontested divorces are more common in states that require the use of a lawyer for filing for divorce. Uncontested divorces can be less expensive and stressful than contested ones. They also tend to maintain the relationship between the parents. Property division and child custody are the most common reasons for hiring a lawyer in contested divorce cases.
When determining whether to hire a lawyer, you should first understand the laws regarding divorce. Most states require that a final hearing be held before a divorcing party can legally proceed. The divorce can be finalized if the parties reach an agreement on the settlement. In states that do not require a final hearing, a judge will sign the judgment. Some states require a waiting time before a divorce can proceed.
Both parties must cooperate in uncontested divorces. Uncontested divorces are when both the spouses agree on the main terms of the divorce. This includes child custody and support. Most often, this includes a settlement agreement and division of marital debts and assets. After the divorce is final, the judge will review the agreement and approve the final divorce decree. Uncontested divorces are relatively inexpensive. In some states, a lawyer might cost as little as 200 dollars.
For more information on Arizona Divorce Law, or help with a pending divorce case, visit one of the sites below
https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1PDji2h5MWs-HiEGB6okXIDrf-DBCarAGeJLEU_4X3tU/view#gid=0