Do You Need a Lawyer for a Contested or Uncontested Arizona Divorce?
Do You Need a Lawyer for a Contested or 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 is this really necessary? Here are the main advantages and disadvantages of each. Learn more to determine if a lawyer is right for you. Also, don't forget the pros and cons. We'll also be discussing the differences between contested or uncontested divorces.
Divorce Cost
Although the costs for a contested or uncontested divorce can vary, the same principles apply to them both. A contested divorce is less complicated, but it is more expensive to have a trial. While attorney fees and court costs are generally the same, a contested divorce may incur additional expenses. 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 couples reach a settlement before they file for divorce. Some states require divorces to be mediated before filing. Judges can also require mediation in some cases. You should know that mediation might not be the best choice for all situations.
Although both contested or uncontested divorces can be costly, uncontested are typically the most expensive. However, a contested separation can cost more than $10,000. That includes attorney fees, court costs, as well as other expenses. An attorney can be costly, but it can help you 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?
It is possible to be confused about the differences between uncontested and contested divorces if you are considering getting divorced. While both divorces are legal, the former is much less expensive. Uncontested divorces may not be for everyone. Even if you have agreed to file for divorce, that doesn't mean it will be an easy process. If you and your spouse disagree on any significant issues, you should hire the services of an attorney. In some cases, you might even be able get divorce without the assistance of a lawyer.
A uncontested divorce can usually take six weeks if the spouse agrees on everything. The timeframe for divorce can vary depending on the circumstances. Some divorces are simple and take less than six months. Some cases take several months to settle. It could take longer if your spouse is slow to complete paperwork. In both cases, a lawyer may be necessary.
Uncontested and contested divorces are distinguished by the length of the proceedings. If one party refuses negotiation, the whole process could take months or even years. However, uncontested divorces are much more straightforward because no one disputes anything. This type can be more stressful for both spouses, as they will need to spend more time on the divorce.
What Is The Requirement to Hire a Lawyer for Contested vs Uncontested 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. Uncontested divorces often involve less expense and stress, and can help to maintain the relationship between the couples. For contested divorces, the most common reasons to hire an attorney are for property division and child custody.
Before you decide whether you want to hire a lawyer, it is important that your understanding of the laws regarding divorce be clear. Many states require a final hearing before a separation can be made final. The final hearing can only be held if both the parties and the judge agree to the settlement. If there is no final hearing required, a judge can sign the judgment. Some states require a waiting phase before a divorce decree can be 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. Typically, this involves a settlement and division of marital estates 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 many states, a divorce lawyer costs as little as $200.
For more information on Arizona Divorce Law, or help with a pending divorce case, visit one of the sites below