Do You Need a Lawyer for a Contested or Uncontested Arizona Divorce?
Do You Need a Lawyer for a Contested or Uncontested Arizona Divorce?
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. 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 talk about the differences in contested and uncontested divorcing.
Divorce Cost
Although the costs for a contested or uncontested divorce can vary, the same principles apply to them both. A contested divorce is less complicated, but it is more expensive to have a trial. The attorney fees and court fee are usually the same. However, a divorce that is contested can lead to additional costs. A trial can resolve disputes about child support, property division, maintenance of property, pensions, or child support. These costs can lead to a greater divorce settlement.
A mediated divorce is the best option if your marriage is peaceful and you are not trying to hide anything. Mediation can be used to help couples reach a compromise agreement before filing for divorce. Some states require that divorce proceedings are mediated before the filing deadline. In some cases, judges may require mediation. But mediation may not always be the best option in every case.
While both contested and uncontested divorces are expensive, uncontested divorces are the cheapest. However, a contested separation can cost more than $10,000. That includes attorney fees, court costs, as well as other expenses. While an attorney is not required to represent you, it can increase the cost of your divorce. One study revealed that 11% of respondents paid $100 per hour or more for an attorney while 20% paid $400 or higher.
Will A Divorce Take A Long Time To Settle?
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. Uncontested divorces, however, are not for everyone. Even if you and/or your spouse have made an agreement to file for divorce it does not mean that it will be easy. If you and your spouse disagree on any significant issues, you should hire the services of an attorney. In certain cases, you may be able obtain the divorce without the involvement of a lawyer.
Uncontested divorces usually last six weeks, if both you and your spouse are in agreement on everything. However, each divorce is different and the timeframes can vary. Some divorces take only six weeks and are relatively quick. Others may take many 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.
The main difference between uncontested and contested divorces is their length. If one party refuses negotiations, the whole process can take many months or even years. A uncontested divorce is much easier because no one is disputing anything. This type is often more stressful, so both sides will have to spend more time and more money.
Uncontested vs Contested Divorce: What are the Requirements?
Whether you should hire a lawyer for contested v and uncontested divorce depends on your state's specific laws. In states that require a lawyer to file for divorce, uncontested divorces are easier to obtain. There is often less stress and expense associated with uncontested divorces, and they tend to preserve the relationship between the parties. 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. A final hearing is required in many states before a divorce can become final. Once the parties have reached an agreement, the divorce can be finalized. 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. In an uncontested divorce, both parties agree on the major terms of the divorce, including child custody and support. Usually, this will involve a settlement agreement as well as the division and payment of marital property and debts. After the final divorce decree is approved, the judge will read the agreement and sign it. The cost of an uncontested divorce can be very affordable. In many states, a lawyer could cost as low as two hundred dollars.
For more information on Arizona Divorce Law, or help with a pending divorce case, visit one of the sites below