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 whether hiring a lawyer in a contested versus an uncontested divorce will save them time and money. But, is it really necessary? Here are the main pros and cons of both. Find out if you need a lawyer for your situation. Don't forget about the pros and cons of each. We'll also cover the differences in uncontested and contested divorces.
Divorce Cost
The costs of a contested versus uncontested divorce vary greatly, but the same principles apply to both. Uncontested divorces are easier to handle, but it's more costly to file for trial. The fees for attorney and court are the same. However, contested divorces can be more costly. There are many issues that can be litigated during a trial. They include child support, maintenance, pensions and property division. The cost of these items can also increase the couple's final divorce settlement.
If your marriage is amicable and neither party is trying to hide something, a mediated divorce will be the least expensive option. Mediating can help couples reach a settlement before they 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.
Although both uncontested and contested divorces cost more, uncontested divorces will be less expensive. However, the costs of a contested divorce can exceed $10,000, including attorney fees, court costs, and other miscellaneous expenses. Although an attorney may be able to protect your rights, hiring an attorney can add considerable costs to your divorce proceedings. A study showed that 11% paid $100 per hour for an attorney, and 20% paid $400.
How Long Does A Divorce Take?
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. However, uncontested divorces are not for everyone. Even if you have agreed to file for divorce, that doesn't mean it will be an easy process. You will need an attorney or mediator if you and your spouse are unable to agree on important issues. You may be able even to divorce your spouse without the help of a lawyer in some cases.
Uncontested divorces usually last six weeks, if both you and your spouse are in agreement on everything. The timeframe for divorce can vary depending on the circumstances. Some divorces take only six weeks and are relatively quick. Others, however, require several months to resolve. If your spouse is slow to return paperwork, it could take much longer. In these cases, it may be necessary to hire a lawyer.
The length of the divorce process is the most noticeable difference between contested and unsuspected. 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 of divorce is more stressful and requires both the parties to invest more time and money.
For Contested and Uncontested Divorces, You May Need to Have a Lawyer
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 can be obtained in those states that require you to hire a lawyer to file your divorce papers. Uncontested divorces can be less expensive and stressful than contested ones. They also tend to maintain the relationship between the parents. 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. The divorce can be finalized if the parties reach an agreement on the settlement. A judge will sign judgments in states that don't require a final hearing. Some states require that a waiting period be allowed before a divorce can take place.
The cooperation of both the parties is required for uncontested divorces. 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. 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