Do you really need a lawyer for a divorce in Arizona?
What is the best way to get a lawyer to represent you in a contested or uncontested divorce?
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? Here are the main advantages and disadvantages of each. Find out if you need a lawyer for your situation. Also, don't forget the pros and cons. We'll also discuss the differences between contested and uncontested divorces.
Cost of a Divorce
While the costs of a contested and uncontested divorce are different, they both have similar costs. 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. You can have a trial to dispute child support, maintenance and pensions or property division. These can add to the total divorce settlement.
Mediated divorce is best for a happy marriage where neither side is 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 that divorce proceedings are mediated before the filing deadline. In some cases, judges may require mediation. Mediation may not be the best solution for every case.
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.
How Long Does A Divorce Take 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. 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 your spouse disagree on any significant issues, you should hire the services of an attorney. You may be able even to divorce your spouse without the help of a lawyer in some cases.
If you and your spouse agree on everything, an uncontested divorce will generally take about six weeks. However, each divorce is different and the timeframes can vary. Some divorces can be completed in less than six weeks. Some cases take several months to settle. 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. When one party refuses to negotiate, the entire process can take months or even years. 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.
Am I Required to Hire a Lawyer for a Uncontested or Contested divorce?
It depends on the laws of your state as to whether you need a lawyer for uncontested or contested divorce. In states that require a lawyer to file for divorce, uncontested divorces are easier to obtain. There is often less stress and expense associated with uncontested divorces, and they tend to preserve the relationship between the parties. Common reasons to hire a lawyer when contested divorcing are child custody and property division.
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. The divorce can be finalized if the parties reach an agreement on the settlement. In states that do not require a final hearing, a judge will sign the judgment. Some states require a waiting period before a divorce can be finalized.
Uncontested divorces require the cooperation of both parties. Uncontested divorces are when both the spouses agree on the main terms of the divorce. This includes child custody and support. Usually, this involves a settlement agreement and the division of marital assets and debts. The judge will then review the agreement and approve final divorce decrees. Uncontested divorces are relatively inexpensive. 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