Do You Need a Lawyer for a Contested or Uncontested Arizona Divorce?
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? These are the main benefits and drawbacks of each. You can decide if hiring a lawyer in your specific situation by reading the following. Don't forget about the pros and cons of each. We will also talk about the differences between uncontested and contested divorces.
Cost of a Divorce
While the costs of uncontested and contested divorces are very different, they all follow the same principles. Although an uncontested divorce can be more straightforward, it is more expensive to file for a court hearing. 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. Mediation can help a couple reach a settlement agreement before filing for a divorce. Some states require that divorce proceedings are mediated before the filing deadline. In some cases, judges may require mediation. You should know that mediation might not be the best choice for all situations.
While both contested and uncontested divorces are expensive, uncontested divorces are the cheapest. 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 revealed that 11% of respondents paid $100 per hour or more for an attorney while 20% paid $400 or higher.
How Long Does A Divorce Take?
If you are thinking of getting divorced, it is likely that you are wondering what the differences are between a uncontested and contested divorce. While both types of divorce are legal, the cost of the former is significantly less. Uncontested divorces might not be right 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.
An uncontested divorce is usually only six weeks long if your spouse and you agree on everything. The timeframe for divorce can vary depending on the circumstances. Some divorces are easy and quick, lasting less than six week. Others, however, require several months to resolve. It may take longer if your spouse is slow in returning paperwork. A lawyer might be required in either case.
Uncontested and contested divorces are distinguished by the length of the proceedings. 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 typically involves a lot more stress, which means that both parties have to spend more time and money on the divorce.
What Is The Requirement to Hire a Lawyer for Contested vs Uncontested Divorce?
The laws in your state will determine whether or not you need to hire a lawyer for contested v or uncontested divorce. In states that require a lawyer to file for divorce, uncontested divorces are easier to obtain. 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 decide whether to retain a lawyer for your divorce, make sure that you are familiar with the laws. Many states require a final hearing before a divorce can be final. The final hearing can only be held if both the parties and the judge agree to the settlement. If the state does not require a final hearing to end the divorce proceedings, a judge will sign it. Some states require a waiting phase before a divorce decree can be finalized.
An uncontested divorce requires cooperation from both sides. Uncontested divorces are when both the spouses agree on the main terms of the divorce. This includes child custody and support. This usually involves a settlement agreement, the division of marital assets, and debts. After the final divorce decree is approved, the judge will read the agreement and sign it. The cost of an uncontested divorce can be very affordable. 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