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 are unsure if hiring a lawyer to represent them in a contested or uncontested divorce will help save time and money. But, is it really necessary? These are the main pros of both. Learn more to determine if a lawyer is right for you. Also, don't forget the pros and cons. We'll also be discussing the differences between contested or uncontested divorces.
How Much Will A Divorce Cost?
Although the costs for a contested or uncontested divorce can vary, the same principles apply to them both. While an uncontested divorce is easier to get through, it costs more to file for a trial. Although attorney fees and court fees are typically the same for both parties, a contested separation can result in additional costs. 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 best for a happy marriage where neither side is 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. You should know that mediation might not be the best choice for all situations.
Although both contested or uncontested divorces can be costly, uncontested are typically the most 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.
Time Required For A Divorce
If you are thinking of getting divorced, it is likely that you are wondering what the differences are between a uncontested and contested divorce. Although both are legal, uncontested divorces tend to be less expensive. However, uncontested divorces are not for everyone. It doesn't necessarily mean that a divorce will be easy even if your spouse has agreed to file. 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. Of course, every divorce is different, so the timeframe can vary considerably. Some divorces take only six weeks and are relatively quick. Others may take many months to resolve. It can take even longer if your spouse has been 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. Uncontested divorces can be completed quickly because there is no dispute. This type is often more stressful, so both sides will have to spend more time and more money.
Am I Required to Hire a Lawyer for a Uncontested or Contested divorce?
It depends on the laws of your state as to whether you need a lawyer for uncontested or contested divorce. Uncontested divorces are more common in states that require the use of a lawyer for filing for divorce. Uncontested divorces often involve less expense and stress, and can help to maintain the relationship between the couples. For contested divorces, the most common reasons to hire an attorney are for property division and child custody.
When determining whether to hire a lawyer, you should first understand the laws regarding divorce. Many states require a final hearing before a separation can be made final. If both parties are happy with the settlement, the divorce proceedings can be finalized. If the state does not require a final hearing to end the divorce proceedings, a judge will sign it. Some states require a waiting time before a divorce can proceed.
Uncontested divorces require the cooperation of both parties. 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. The judge will approve the final divorce decree after the divorce is finalized. The cost of an uncontested divorce can be very affordable. 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