Do You Need a Lawyer for a Contested or Uncontested Arizona Divorce?
Do you really need a lawyer for a divorce in Arizona?
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. Learn more to determine if a lawyer is right for you. Don't forget about the pros and cons of each. We will also talk about the differences between uncontested and contested divorces.
Cost of a Divorce
Although the costs of a divorce is more expensive than one that is uncontested, they are still affordable. A contested divorce is less complicated, but it is more expensive to have a trial. Attorney fees and court fees are usually the same for each, but a contested divorce can incur additional expenses. 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. Mediation can be used to help couples reach a compromise agreement before filing for divorce. Some states require that the divorce proceedings be mediated before they can be filed. Judges may also require mediation in certain cases. Mediation may not be the best solution for every case.
Both contested and uncontested divorcing are costly, but uncontested divorces tend to be the least expensive. However, a contested separation can cost more than $10,000. That includes attorney fees, court costs, as well as other expenses. Hiring an attorney can also add significant costs to your divorce, although an attorney can protect your rights. One study found 11% paid $100 or more per an hour to have an attorney represent them, while 20% paid $400.
How Long Does A Divorce Take?
It is possible to be confused about the differences between uncontested and contested divorces if you are considering getting divorced. While both divorces are legal, the former is much less expensive. However, uncontested divorces are not for everyone. Even if you have agreed to file for divorce, that doesn't mean it will be an easy process. An attorney or mediator can be hired if your spouse and you are not able to reach an agreement on any key issues. In certain cases, you may be able obtain the divorce without the involvement of a lawyer.
A uncontested divorce can usually take six weeks if the spouse agrees on everything. Of course, every divorce is different, so the timeframe can vary considerably. Some divorces can be completed in less than six weeks. Others may take many months to resolve. It may take longer if your spouse is slow in returning paperwork. In either case, a lawyer may be necessary.
Uncontested and contested divorces are distinguished by the length of the proceedings. If one party refuses negotiations, the whole process can take many months or even years. An uncontested divorce, on the other hand can be done quickly as no one is disputing anything. This type of divorce is more stressful and requires both the parties to invest more time and money.
Is A Lawyer Required for Contested or Uncontested Divorce
The laws in your state will determine whether or not you need to hire a lawyer for contested v or uncontested divorce. Uncontested divorces can be obtained in those states that require you to hire a lawyer to file your divorce papers. Uncontested divorces can be less expensive and stressful than contested ones. They also tend to maintain the relationship between the parents. For contested divorces, the most common reasons to hire an attorney are for property division and child custody.
Before you can decide whether to hire an attorney, it is important to understand the laws governing divorce. In many states, a final hearing must be held before a divorce is final. Once the parties have reached an agreement, the divorce can be finalized. A judge will sign the judgment in cases that do not require a final court hearing. Some states require a waiting phase before a divorce decree can be finalized.
Both parties must cooperate in uncontested divorces. Both parties must agree to the major terms of an uncontested divorcement, including child custody, support, and maintenance. Usually, this will involve a settlement agreement as well as the division and payment of marital property and debts. The judge will then review the agreement and approve final divorce decrees. The uncontested divorce is relatively affordable. In many states, a lawyer may cost as little as two hundred dollars.
For more information on Arizona Divorce Law, or help with a pending divorce case, visit one of the sites below