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, do they really need to? Here are the main advantages and disadvantages of each. You can decide if hiring a lawyer in your specific situation by reading the following. Check out the pros and con of each. We'll also cover the differences in uncontested and contested divorces.
How Much Will A Divorce Cost?
Although the costs of a divorce is more expensive than one that is uncontested, they are still affordable. While an uncontested divorce is easier to get through, it costs more to file for a trial. The attorney fees and court fee are usually the same. However, a divorce that is contested can lead to additional costs. You can have a trial to dispute child support, maintenance and pensions or property division. These can add to the total divorce settlement.
A mediated divorce is the best option if your marriage is peaceful and you are not trying to hide anything. Mediating can help you and your spouse reach a mutually beneficial settlement agreement before you file for divorce. Some states require that divorce proceedings are mediated before the filing deadline. In some 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 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. 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?
It is possible to be confused about the differences between uncontested and contested divorces if you are considering getting divorced. Although both are legal, the uncontested divorce is less costly. Uncontested divorces, however, are not for everyone. Even if you have agreed to file for divorce, that doesn't mean it will be an easy process. An attorney or mediator can be hired if your spouse and you are not able to reach an agreement on any key issues. In certain cases, you may be able obtain the divorce without the involvement of a lawyer.
Uncontested divorces usually last six weeks, if both you and your spouse are in agreement on everything. Of course, every divorce is different, so the timeframe can vary considerably. Some divorces are easy and quick, lasting less than six week. Others, however, require several months to resolve. It could take longer if your spouse is slow to complete paperwork. A lawyer might be required in either case.
The main difference between uncontested and contested divorces is their length. The entire process can be prolonged if one side refuses to negotiate. An uncontested divorce, on the other hand can be done quickly as no one is disputing anything. This type is often more stressful, so both sides will have to spend more time and more money.
What Is The Requirement to Hire a Lawyer for Contested vs Uncontested Divorce?
Whether you should hire a lawyer for contested v and uncontested divorce depends on your state's specific laws. Uncontested divorces can be obtained in those states that require you to hire a lawyer to file your divorce papers. Uncontested divorces are less stressful and more affordable, and tend to preserve the relationships between the spouses. 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. Most states require that a final hearing be held before a divorcing party can legally proceed. 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.
Uncontested divorces require the cooperation of both parties. An uncontested divorce is when both spouses reach an agreement on the terms of the divorce. Usually, this involves a settlement agreement and the division of marital assets 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 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