Do You Need a Lawyer for a Contested or Uncontested Arizona Divorce?
Do you really need a lawyer for a divorce in Arizona?
Many people are unsure if hiring a lawyer to represent them in a contested or uncontested divorce will help save time and money. But, do they really need to? Let's look at the pros and cons of each. 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 will also talk about the differences between uncontested and contested divorces.
Cost of a Divorce
Although the costs for a contested or uncontested divorce can vary, the same principles apply to them both. A contested divorce is less complicated, but it is more expensive to have a trial. Attorney fees and court fees are usually the same for each, but a contested divorce can incur additional expenses. The costs of child support, maintenance of properties, pensions, and property distribution can all be litigated in court. This can affect a couple’s overall divorce settlement.
Mediated divorce is best for a happy marriage where neither side is trying to hide anything. Mediating can help couples reach a settlement before they file for divorce. Some states require divorces to be mediated before filing. Judges can also require mediation in some cases. It is important to realize that mediation may not work in all cases.
Both contested and uncontested divorcing are costly, but uncontested divorces tend to be the least expensive. However, the costs of a contested divorce can exceed $10,000, including attorney fees, court costs, and other miscellaneous expenses. While an attorney is not required to represent you, it can increase the cost of your divorce. One study revealed that 11% of respondents paid $100 per hour or more for an attorney while 20% paid $400 or higher.
How Long Does A Divorce Take to Settle?
It is possible to be confused about the differences between uncontested and contested divorces if you are considering getting divorced. While both types of divorce are legal, the cost of the former is significantly less. Uncontested divorces might not be right for everyone. Even if you and/or your spouse have made an agreement to file for divorce it does not mean that it will be easy. An attorney or mediator can be hired if your spouse and you are not able to reach an agreement on any key issues. In certain cases, you may be able obtain the divorce without the involvement of a lawyer.
If you and your spouse agree on everything, an uncontested divorce will generally take about six weeks. Each divorce is unique, so time frames can vary greatly. Some divorces are simple and take less than six months. Some divorces can take several months to complete. It might take longer if your spouse takes too long to return paperwork. In both cases, a lawyer may be necessary.
Uncontested and contested divorces are distinguished by the length of the proceedings. The entire process can be prolonged if one side refuses to negotiate. Uncontested divorces can be completed quickly because there is no dispute. This type of divorce typically involves a lot more stress, which means that both parties have to spend more time and money on the divorce.
Is A Lawyer Required for Contested or Uncontested Divorce
It depends on the laws of your state as to whether you need a lawyer for uncontested or contested 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. For contested divorces, the most common reasons to hire an attorney are for property division and child custody.
Before you decide whether you want to hire a lawyer, it is important that your understanding of the laws regarding divorce be clear. 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. In states that do not require a final hearing, a judge will sign the judgment. Some states require that a waiting period be allowed before a divorce can take place.
Both parties must cooperate in uncontested divorces. Both parties must agree to the major terms of an uncontested divorcement, including child custody, support, and maintenance. Typically, this involves a settlement and division of marital estates and debts. 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 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