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 whether hiring a lawyer in a contested versus an uncontested divorce will save them time and money. Is it really necessary? These are the main benefits and drawbacks of each. You can decide if hiring a lawyer in your specific situation by reading the following. You should also consider the other benefits and drawbacks of each. We will also talk about the differences between uncontested and contested divorces.
Cost of a Divorce
While the costs of uncontested and contested divorces are very different, they all follow the same principles. 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. There are many issues that can be litigated during a trial. They include child support, maintenance, pensions and property division. The cost of these items can also increase the couple's final divorce settlement.
If your marriage is amicable and neither party is trying to hide something, a mediated divorce will be the least expensive option. Mediation can help a couple reach a settlement agreement before filing for a 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 uncontested and contested divorces cost more, uncontested divorces will be less expensive. However, the costs of a contested divorce can exceed $10,000, including attorney fees, court costs, and other miscellaneous expenses. However, an attorney can help protect your rights and reduce the costs of divorce proceedings. One study found that 11% of respondents paid an attorney $100 or more per hour, while 20% paid $400 or more.
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. Although both are legal, the uncontested divorce is less costly. Uncontested divorces might not be right for everyone. Even if you and your spouse have agreed to file for a divorce, this doesn't mean that it's going to be a breeze. If you and your spouse cannot agree on any important issues, you'll need to engage the services of an attorney or a mediator. In some cases, you may even be able to get the divorce without a lawyer.
Uncontested divorces are usually completed in six weeks if you and your spouse can agree on everything. Each divorce is unique, so time frames can vary greatly. 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 any case, a lawyer may prove necessary.
The length of the divorce process is the most noticeable difference between contested and unsuspected. If one party refuses negotiation, the whole process could take months or even years. An uncontested divorce, on the other hand can be done quickly as no one is disputing anything. This type can be more stressful for both spouses, as they will need to spend more time on the divorce.
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 are less common in states that require lawyers to file for divorce. Uncontested divorces can be less expensive and stressful than contested ones. They also tend to maintain the relationship between the parents. Common reasons to hire a lawyer when contested divorcing are child custody and property division.
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. The final hearing can only be held if both the parties and the judge agree to the settlement. In states that do not require a final hearing, a judge will sign the judgment. Some states require a waiting period before a divorce can be finalized.
An uncontested divorce requires cooperation from both sides. An uncontested divorce is when both spouses reach an agreement on the terms of the divorce. Usually, this involves a settlement agreement and the division of marital assets and debts. The final divorce decree will be approved by the judge after the agreement is reviewed and approved by the judge. 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