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 if it is worth hiring a lawyer for a contested rather than an uncontested divorcement. Is it really necessary? Here are the main advantages and disadvantages of each. Learn more to determine if a lawyer is right for you. And don't forget to check out the other pros and cons of each as well. We will also talk about the differences between uncontested and contested divorces.
How Much Will A Divorce Cost?
Although the costs of a divorce is more expensive than one that is uncontested, they are still affordable. Uncontested divorces are easier to handle, but it's more costly to file for 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. Mediating can help you and your spouse reach a mutually beneficial settlement agreement before you file 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.
Both contested and uncontested divorcing are costly, but uncontested divorces tend to be the least expensive. A contested divorce costs more than $10,000 including attorney fees and court costs. Hiring an attorney can also add significant costs to your divorce, although an attorney can protect your rights. One study found 11% paid $100 or more per an hour to have an attorney represent them, while 20% paid $400.
Will A Divorce Take A Long Time 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. However, uncontested divorces are not 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/or your spouse can't agree on any major issues, you will need to hire an attorney or mediator. In some cases, you may even be able to get the divorce without a lawyer.
A uncontested divorce can usually take six weeks if the spouse agrees on everything. The timeframe for divorce can vary depending on the circumstances. Some divorces are easy and quick, lasting less than six week. Others may take many months to resolve. It could take longer if your spouse is slow to complete paperwork. In both cases, a lawyer may be necessary.
The main difference between uncontested and contested divorces is their length. When one party refuses to negotiate, the entire process can take months or even years. An uncontested divorce, on the other hand can be done quickly as no one is disputing anything. This type of divorce is more stressful and requires both the parties to invest more time and money.
Uncontested vs Contested Divorce: What are the Requirements?
Your state's specific laws will dictate whether you need to hire a legal representative for contested vs uncontested divorce. Uncontested divorces in states that require a divorce lawyer are much easier to obtain. 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. 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. If there is no final hearing required, a judge can sign the judgment. Some states require a waiting phase before a divorce decree can be finalized.
Uncontested divorces are only possible with the cooperation of both spouses. 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 final divorce decree will be approved by the judge after the agreement is reviewed and approved by the judge. The cost of the uncontested divorce is low. 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