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 are unsure if hiring a lawyer to represent them in a contested or uncontested divorce will help save time and money. But, do they really need to? Here are the main pros and cons of both. Learn more to determine if a lawyer is right for you. Check out the pros and con of each. We'll also talk about the differences in contested and uncontested divorcing.
Cost of a Divorce
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. Attorney fees and court fees are usually the same for each, but a contested divorce can incur additional expenses. There are many issues that can be litigated during a trial. They include child support, maintenance, pensions and property division. The cost of these items can also increase the couple's final 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. However, you should be aware that mediation may not be the best option for every situation.
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. However, an attorney can help protect your rights and reduce the costs of divorce proceedings. One study found 11% paid $100 or more per an hour to have an attorney represent them, while 20% paid $400.
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. Although both are legal, the uncontested divorce is less costly. Uncontested divorces aren't for everyone. Even if you and your spouse have agreed to file for a divorce, this doesn't mean that it's going to be a breeze. An attorney or mediator can be hired if your spouse and you are not able to reach an agreement on any key issues. You may be able even to divorce your spouse without the help of a lawyer in some cases.
A uncontested divorce can usually take six weeks if the spouse agrees on everything. However, each divorce is different and the timeframes can vary. Some divorces are quick and simple, taking less than six weeks. Others can take months to resolve. It may take longer if your spouse is slow in returning paperwork. In any case, a lawyer may prove necessary.
The main difference between uncontested and contested divorces is their length. If one party refuses negotiation, the whole process could take months or even years. An uncontested divorce, on the other hand can be done quickly as no one is disputing anything. This type divorce usually involves more stress which leads to both parties spending more time and money.
Is A Lawyer Required for Contested or Uncontested Divorce
You should choose whether you hire a lawyer to file for contested v divorce or uncontested divorce depending on the state's laws. Uncontested divorces can be obtained in those states that require you to hire a lawyer to file your divorce papers. There is often less stress and expense associated with uncontested divorces, and they tend to preserve the relationship between the parties. 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. In many states, a final hearing must be held before a divorce is final. The divorce can be finalized if the parties reach an agreement on the settlement. If the state does not require a final hearing to end the divorce proceedings, a judge will sign it. Some states require that a waiting period be allowed before a divorce can take place.
Uncontested divorces require the cooperation of both parties. 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 approve the final divorce decree after the divorce is finalized. The cost for an uncontested divorce will be 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