Do you really need a lawyer for a divorce in Arizona?
Should You Hire a Lawyer for a Contested Vs Uncontested Arizona Divorce?
People often wonder if hiring a lawyer for a contested divorce is better than hiring one for an uncontested. But, do they really need to? These are the main pros of both. Find out if you need a lawyer for your situation. Also, don't forget the pros and cons. We'll also talk about the differences in contested and uncontested divorcing.
How Much Will A Divorce Cost?
While the costs of a contested and uncontested divorce are different, they both have similar costs. An uncontested divorce is simpler to finalize, but it can cost more to file for a hearing. Attorney fees and court fees are usually the same for each, but a contested divorce can incur additional expenses. The costs of child support, maintenance of properties, pensions, and property distribution can all be litigated in court. This can affect a couple’s overall divorce settlement.
A mediated divorce is the best option if your marriage is peaceful and you are not trying to hide 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. Mediation may not be the best solution for every case.
Although both contested or uncontested divorces can be costly, uncontested are typically the most expensive. The costs of a contested divorcing can reach $10,000. This includes attorney fees, court costs and any other miscellaneous costs. However, an attorney can help protect your rights and reduce the costs of divorce proceedings. 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 to Settle?
When you're thinking about getting divorced, you're probably wondering about the differences between a contested and an uncontested divorce. Both divorces are legal but the first is cheaper. Uncontested divorces aren't for everyone. Even if you have agreed to file for divorce, that doesn't mean it will be an easy process. 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.
Uncontested divorces usually last six weeks, if both you and your spouse are in agreement on everything. Of course, every divorce is different, so the timeframe can vary considerably. Some divorces are quick and simple, taking less than six weeks. Some divorces can take several months to complete. It may take longer if your spouse is slow in returning paperwork. In both cases, a lawyer may be necessary.
The length of the divorce process is the most noticeable difference between contested and unsuspected. If one party refuses negotiations, the whole process can take many months or even years. On the other hand, an uncontested divorce can go through relatively quickly, because no one is disputing 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.
Is A Lawyer Required for Contested or Uncontested Divorce
You should choose whether you hire a lawyer to file for contested v divorce or uncontested divorce depending on the state's laws. Uncontested divorces can be obtained in those states that require you to hire a lawyer to file your divorce papers. There is often less stress and expense associated with uncontested divorces, and they tend to preserve the relationship between the parties. Most people hire a lawyer to help them with contested divorces.
Before you decide whether to retain a lawyer for your divorce, make sure that you are familiar with the laws. In many states, a final hearing must be held before a divorce is final. If the parties agree to the settlement, then the divorce can be finalized. A judge will sign the judgment in cases that do not require a final court hearing. Some states require that there be a waiting period before a divorce is finalized.
Uncontested divorces are only possible with the cooperation of both spouses. Both the parties can agree on the key terms of an uncontested divorcement, including child custody rights and support. Usually, this involves a settlement agreement and the division of marital assets and debts. The judge will then review the agreement and approve final divorce decrees. The cost of the uncontested divorce is low. A lawyer can cost as low as $200 in many states.
For more information on Arizona Divorce Law, or help with a pending divorce case, visit one of the sites below