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. But, 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. And don't forget to check out the other pros and cons of each as well. We'll also be discussing the differences between contested or uncontested divorces.
Cost of a Divorce
While the costs of uncontested and contested divorces are very different, they all follow the same principles. A contested divorce is less complicated, but it is more expensive to have a trial. The fees for attorney and court are the same. However, contested divorces can be more costly. A trial can resolve disputes about child support, property division, maintenance of property, pensions, or child support. These costs can lead to a greater divorce settlement.
Mediated divorce is best for couples who are happy in their marriage and don't want to be accused of anything. Mediating can help you and your spouse reach a mutually beneficial settlement agreement before you 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. It is important to realize that mediation may not work in all cases.
Although both contested or uncontested divorces can be costly, uncontested are typically the most 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.
Will A Divorce Take A Long Time To Settle?
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 aren't 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. 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. Every divorce is different so the timeline can vary. Some divorces take only six weeks and are relatively quick. Some cases take several months to settle. If your spouse is slow to return paperwork, it could take much longer. In both cases, a lawyer may be necessary.
The biggest difference between uncontested and litigated divorces is how long it takes. If one party refuses negotiations, the whole process can take many months or even years. On the other hand, an uncontested divorce can go through relatively quickly, because no one is disputing anything. This type is often more stressful, so both sides will have to spend more time and more money.
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 in states that require a divorce lawyer are much easier to obtain. Uncontested divorces often involve less expense and stress, and can help to maintain the relationship between the couples. The most common reasons to hire a lawyer for contested divorces are property division and child custody.
It is essential that you understand the laws surrounding divorce before you make a decision about whether or not to hire a legal representative. Many states require a final hearing before a separation can be made final. Once the parties have reached an agreement, the divorce can be finalized. If the state does not require a final hearing to end the divorce proceedings, a judge will sign it. Some states require that there be a waiting period before a divorce is finalized.
Uncontested divorces are only possible with the cooperation of both spouses. 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 judge will then review the agreement and approve final divorce decrees. The uncontested divorce is relatively 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