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 it really necessary? These are the main benefits and drawbacks of each. Find out if you need a lawyer for your situation. Check out the pros and con of each. We'll also talk about the differences in contested and uncontested divorcing.
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. While attorney fees and court costs are generally the same, a contested divorce may incur additional expenses. 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.
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 divorces to be mediated before filing. Judges can also require mediation in some cases. However, you should be aware that mediation may not be the best option for every situation.
Uncontested divorces, while more expensive than contested ones, are usually the most affordable. The costs of a contested divorcing can reach $10,000. This includes attorney fees, court costs and any other miscellaneous costs. While an attorney is not required to represent you, it can increase the cost of your divorce. A study showed that 11% paid $100 per hour for an attorney, and 20% paid $400.
How Long Does A Divorce Take to Settle?
You may be wondering what the difference is between a contested or uncontested divorce when you think about getting divorcéed. Both divorces are legal but the first is cheaper. Uncontested divorces may not be for everyone. It doesn't necessarily mean that a divorce will be easy even if your spouse has agreed to file. If you and/or your spouse can't agree on any major issues, you will need to hire an attorney or mediator. 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. Each divorce is unique, so time frames can vary greatly. Some divorces are easy and quick, lasting less than six week. Others may take many months to resolve. If your spouse is slow to return paperwork, it could take much longer. In both cases, a lawyer may be necessary.
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. On the other hand, an uncontested divorce can go through relatively quickly, because no one is disputing anything. This type divorce usually involves more stress which leads to both parties spending more time and money.
Am I Required to Hire a Lawyer for a Uncontested or Contested 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. Property division and child custody are the most common reasons for hiring a lawyer in contested divorce cases.
Before you can decide whether to hire an attorney, it is important to understand the laws governing divorce. A final hearing is required in many states before a divorce can become final. If both parties are happy with the settlement, the divorce proceedings can be finalized. In states that do not require a final hearing, a judge will sign the judgment. Some states require that there be a waiting period before a divorce is finalized.
Uncontested divorces require the cooperation of both parties. An uncontested divorce is when both spouses reach an agreement on the terms of the divorce. Usually, this will involve a settlement agreement as well as the division and payment of marital property and debts. The judge will approve the final divorce decree after the divorce is finalized. The cost for an uncontested divorce will be low. In many states, a divorce lawyer costs as little as $200.
For more information on Arizona Divorce Law, or help with a pending divorce case, visit one of the sites below