Do you really need a lawyer for a divorce in Arizona?
Should You Hire a Lawyer for a Contested Vs Uncontested Arizona Divorce?
People often wonder if hiring a lawyer for a contested divorce is better than hiring one for an uncontested. Is it really necessary? Here are the main advantages and disadvantages of each. To determine whether hiring a legal professional is appropriate for your case, read on. Check out the pros and con of each. We'll also be discussing the differences between contested or uncontested divorces.
Divorce Cost
While the costs of a contested and uncontested divorce are different, they both have similar costs. An uncontested divorce is simpler to finalize, but it can cost more to file for a hearing. 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 a divorce be mediated before it is filed. In certain cases, judges may require mediation. But mediation may not always be the best option in every case.
Although both uncontested and contested divorces cost more, uncontested divorces will be less expensive. However, a contested marriage can cost over $10,000. These costs include attorney fees, court expenses, and miscellaneous expenses. Hiring an attorney can also add significant costs to your divorce, although an attorney can protect your rights. A study showed that 11% paid $100 per hour for an attorney, and 20% paid $400.
How Long Does A Divorce Take?
When you're thinking about getting divorced, you're probably wondering about the differences between a contested and an uncontested divorce. Both divorces are legal but the first is cheaper. Uncontested divorces, however, 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.
Uncontested divorces are usually completed in six weeks if you and your spouse can agree on everything. The timeframe for divorce can vary depending on the circumstances. Some divorces take only six weeks and are relatively quick. Others may take many months to resolve. It may take longer if your spouse is slow in returning paperwork. A lawyer might be required in either case.
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 divorce usually involves more stress which leads to both parties spending more time and money.
Is A Lawyer Required for Contested or Uncontested Divorce
The laws in your state will determine whether or not you need to hire a lawyer for contested v or 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. Property division and child custody are the most common reasons for hiring a lawyer in contested divorce cases.
Before you decide whether you want to hire a lawyer, it is important that your understanding of the laws regarding divorce be clear. A final hearing is required in many states before a divorce can become final. 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 are only possible with the cooperation of both spouses. Both the parties can agree on the key terms of an uncontested divorcement, including child custody rights and support. Typically, this involves a settlement and division of marital estates and debts. The judge will then review the agreement and approve final divorce decrees. The cost of an uncontested divorce can be very affordable. 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