Do you really need a lawyer for a divorce in Arizona?
Are you unsure if you should hire a lawyer in Contested or Uncontested Divorce cases?
Many people wonder whether hiring a lawyer in a contested versus an uncontested divorce will save them time and money. Is it really necessary? These are the main benefits and drawbacks of each. To determine whether hiring a legal professional is appropriate for your case, read on. Also, don't forget the pros and cons. We'll also discuss the differences between contested and uncontested divorces.
Divorce Cost
Although the costs for a contested or uncontested divorce can vary, the same principles apply to them both. Uncontested divorces are easier to handle, but it's more costly to file for trial. While attorney fees and court costs are generally the same, a contested divorce may incur additional expenses. 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 affordable if the couple is able to reach an amicable agreement and there is no attempt to conceal anything. Mediation can be used to help couples reach a compromise agreement before filing for divorce. Some states require that a divorce be mediated before it is filed. In certain 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. However, a contested marriage can cost over $10,000. These costs include attorney fees, court expenses, and miscellaneous expenses. Although an attorney may be able to protect your rights, hiring an attorney can add considerable costs to your divorce proceedings. One study found that 11% of respondents paid an attorney $100 or more per hour, while 20% paid $400 or more.
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. Although both are legal, uncontested divorces tend to be less expensive. However, uncontested divorces are not for everyone. Even if you and/or your spouse have made an agreement to file for divorce it does not mean that it will be easy. You will need an attorney or mediator if you and your spouse are unable to agree on important issues. 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. Every divorce is different so the timeline can vary. Some divorces are simple and take less than six months. Others can take months to resolve. It may take longer if your spouse is slow in returning paperwork. In either case, a lawyer may be necessary.
Uncontested and contested divorces are distinguished by the length of the proceedings. The whole process can take months, if not years, if one of the parties refuses to compromise. On the other hand, an uncontested divorce can go through relatively quickly, because no one is disputing anything. This type divorce usually involves more stress which leads to both parties spending more time and money.
Uncontested vs Contested Divorce: What are the Requirements?
Your state's specific laws will dictate whether you need to hire a legal representative for contested vs uncontested divorce. Uncontested divorces are more common in states that require the use of a lawyer for filing for divorce. Uncontested divorces can be less expensive and stressful than contested ones. They also tend to maintain the relationship between the parents. The most common reasons to hire a lawyer for contested divorces are property division and child custody.
Before you can decide whether to hire an attorney, it is important to understand the laws governing divorce. 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 that a waiting period be allowed before a divorce can take place.
The cooperation of both the parties is required for uncontested divorces. Both the parties can agree on the key terms of an uncontested divorcement, including child custody rights and support. This usually involves a settlement agreement, the division of marital assets, and debts. The final divorce decree will be approved by the judge after the agreement is reviewed and approved by the judge. The cost of the uncontested divorce is low. 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