Do you really need a lawyer for a divorce in Arizona?
Should You Hire a Lawyer for a Contested Vs Uncontested Arizona Divorce?
Many people wonder if they will be able to save time and money by hiring a lawyer in a contested versus uncontested divorce. But, do they really need to? Here are the main pros and cons of both. Learn more to determine if a lawyer is right for you. Also, don't forget the pros and cons. We'll also discuss the differences between contested and uncontested divorces.
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. Child support, maintenance of property, pensions, and property division can be contested in a trial, and the costs of these can increase a couple's total divorce settlement.
If your marriage is amicable and neither party is trying to hide something, a mediated divorce will be the least expensive option. A couple can reach a settlement agreement through mediation before filing for divorce. Some states require that the divorce proceedings be mediated before they can be filed. Judges may also require mediation in certain cases. But mediation may not always be the best option in every case.
While both contested and uncontested divorces are expensive, uncontested divorces are the cheapest. However, a contested marriage can cost over $10,000. These costs include attorney fees, court expenses, and miscellaneous expenses. Although an attorney may be able to protect your rights, hiring an attorney can add considerable costs to your divorce proceedings. One study found 11% paid $100 or more per an hour to have an attorney represent them, while 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. Although both are legal, uncontested divorces tend to be less expensive. Uncontested divorces may not be for everyone. Although you have reached an agreement to file for divorce, it doesn't guarantee that the process will be straightforward. If you and/or your spouse can't agree on any major issues, you will need to hire an attorney or mediator. Sometimes, you might be able to obtain divorce without the need for a lawyer.
A uncontested divorce can usually take six weeks if the spouse agrees on everything. Each divorce is unique, so time frames can vary greatly. Some divorces are quick and simple, taking less than six weeks. Others may take many months to resolve. If your spouse is slow to return paperwork, it could take much longer. In either case, a lawyer may be necessary.
The most obvious difference between contested and uncontested divorces is the length of the process. The whole process can take months, if not years, if one of the parties refuses to compromise. 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.
Am I Required to Hire a Lawyer for a Uncontested or Contested divorce?
Your state's specific laws will dictate whether you need to hire a legal representative for contested vs uncontested divorce. Uncontested divorces are less common in states that require lawyers to file for divorce. Uncontested divorces tend to be less costly and involve less stress. Most people hire a lawyer to help them with contested divorces.
Before you can decide whether to hire an attorney, it is important to understand the laws governing divorce. Many states require a final hearing before a divorce can be final. If both parties are happy with the settlement, the divorce proceedings can be finalized. In states that do not require a final hearing, a judge will sign the judgment. Some states require that there be a waiting period before a divorce is finalized.
The cooperation of both the parties is required for uncontested divorces. Both parties must agree to the major terms of an uncontested divorcement, including child custody, support, and maintenance. This usually involves a settlement agreement, the division of marital assets, and debts. The judge will approve the final divorce decree after the divorce is finalized. 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