Do you really need a lawyer for a divorce in Arizona?
Do You Need a Lawyer for a Contested or Uncontested Arizona Divorce?
Many people wonder if they will be able to save time and money by hiring a lawyer in a contested versus uncontested divorce. But is this really necessary? These are the main pros of both. Find out if you need a lawyer for your situation. And don't forget to check out the other pros and cons of each as well. We'll also discuss the differences between contested and uncontested divorces.
Divorce Cost
The costs of a contested versus uncontested divorce vary greatly, but the same principles apply to both. Although an uncontested divorce can be more straightforward, it is more expensive to file for a court hearing. Although attorney fees and court fees are typically the same for both parties, a contested separation can result in 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 best for couples who are happy in their marriage and don't want to be accused of anything. Mediating can help you and your spouse reach a mutually beneficial settlement agreement before you file for divorce. Some states require that divorces be mediate before filing, and judges can require mediation in specific cases. However, you should be aware that mediation may not be the best option for every situation.
Both contested and uncontested divorcing are costly, but uncontested divorces tend to be the least expensive. However, the costs of a contested divorce can exceed $10,000, including attorney fees, court costs, and other miscellaneous expenses. Hiring an attorney can also add significant costs to your divorce, although an attorney can protect your rights. One study found that 11% spent $100 or more an hour on an attorney and 20% paid $400.
How Long Does A Divorce Take?
There are two types of divorce: contested and uncontested. Both divorces are legal but the first is cheaper. Uncontested divorces, however, are not for everyone. It doesn't necessarily mean that a divorce will be easy even if your spouse has agreed to file. If you and your spouse disagree on any significant issues, you should hire the services of an attorney. Sometimes, you might be able to obtain divorce without the need for a lawyer.
An uncontested divorce is usually only six weeks long if your spouse and you agree on everything. The timeframe for divorce can vary depending on the circumstances. Some divorces can be completed in less than six weeks. Others, however, require several months to resolve. It may take longer if your spouse is slow in returning paperwork. In these cases, it may be necessary to hire a lawyer.
Uncontested and contested divorces are distinguished by the length of the proceedings. When one party refuses to negotiate, the entire process can take months or even years. However, uncontested divorces are much more straightforward because no one disputes anything. This type divorce usually involves more stress which leads to both parties spending more time and money.
For Contested and Uncontested Divorces, You May Need to Have a Lawyer
Whether you should hire a lawyer for contested v and uncontested divorce depends on your state's specific laws. Uncontested divorces are less common in states that require lawyers to file for divorce. Uncontested divorces tend to be less costly and involve less stress. Property division and child custody are the most common reasons for hiring a lawyer in contested divorce cases.
Before you decide whether you want to hire a lawyer, it is important that your understanding of the laws regarding divorce be clear. In many states, a final hearing must be held before a divorce is final. The divorce can be finalized if the parties reach an agreement on the settlement. If the state does not require a final hearing to end the divorce proceedings, a judge will sign it. Some states require a waiting time before a divorce can proceed.
Both parties must cooperate in uncontested divorces. In an uncontested divorce, both parties agree on the major terms of the divorce, including child custody and support. Most often, this includes a settlement agreement and division of marital debts and assets. After the final divorce decree is approved, the judge will read the agreement and sign it. The cost for an uncontested divorce will be low. 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