Do you really need a lawyer for a divorce in Arizona?
Do you really need a lawyer for a divorce in Arizona?
Many people wonder whether hiring a lawyer in a contested versus an uncontested divorce will save them time and money. But is this really necessary? Here are the main pros and cons of both. 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 cover the differences in uncontested and contested divorces.
Divorce Cost
Although the costs of a divorce is more expensive than one that is uncontested, they are still affordable. An uncontested divorce is simpler to finalize, but it can cost more to file for a hearing. 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.
Mediated divorce is affordable if the couple is able to reach an amicable agreement and there is no attempt to conceal anything. Mediating can help you and your spouse reach a mutually beneficial settlement agreement before you file for divorce. Some states require that the divorce proceedings be mediated before they can be filed. Judges may also require mediation in certain 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. However, the costs of a contested divorce can exceed $10,000, including attorney fees, court costs, and other miscellaneous expenses. Hiring an attorney can also add significant costs to your divorce, although an attorney can protect your rights. A study showed that 11% paid $100 per hour for an attorney, and 20% paid $400.
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. While both types of divorce are legal, the cost of the former is significantly less. Uncontested divorces might not be right 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.
If you and your spouse agree on everything, an uncontested divorce will generally take about six weeks. The timeframe for divorce can vary depending on the circumstances. Some divorces are quick and simple, taking less than six weeks. Others can take 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. The whole process can take months, if not years, if one of the parties refuses to compromise. However, uncontested divorces are much more straightforward because no one disputes anything. This type is often more stressful, so both sides will have to spend more time and more money.
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 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. 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. Most states require that a final hearing be held before a divorcing party can legally proceed. 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 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. Most often, this includes a settlement agreement and division of marital debts and assets. The judge will approve the final divorce decree after the divorce is finalized. Uncontested divorces are relatively inexpensive. 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