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 are unsure if hiring a lawyer to represent them in a contested or uncontested divorce will help save time and money. Is it really necessary? Here are the main advantages and disadvantages of each. Learn more to determine if a lawyer is right for you. Don't forget about the pros and cons of each. We'll also talk about the differences in contested and uncontested divorcing.
Cost of a Divorce
Although the costs of a divorce is more expensive than one that is uncontested, they are still affordable. A contested divorce is less complicated, but it is more expensive to have a trial. The fees for attorney and court are the same. However, contested divorces can be more costly. 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 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 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.
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 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?
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. Although you have reached an agreement to file for divorce, it doesn't guarantee that the process will be straightforward. 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.
Uncontested divorces are usually completed in six weeks if you and your spouse can agree on everything. Every divorce is different so the timeline can vary. Some divorces are simple and take less than six months. Some divorces can take several months to complete. It might take longer if your spouse takes too long to return paperwork. In these cases, it may be necessary to hire a lawyer.
Uncontested and contested divorces are distinguished by the length of the proceedings. The entire process can be prolonged if one side refuses to negotiate. Uncontested divorces can be completed quickly because there is no dispute. This type of divorce is more stressful and requires both the parties to invest more time and money.
Is A Lawyer Required for Contested or Uncontested Divorce
Whether you should hire a lawyer for contested v and uncontested divorce depends on your state's specific laws. Uncontested divorces are less common in states that require lawyers to file 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 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. Once the parties have reached an agreement, the divorce can be finalized. In states that do not require a final hearing, a judge will sign the judgment. Some states require that there be a waiting period before a divorce is finalized.
Both parties must cooperate in uncontested divorces. Uncontested divorces are when both the spouses agree on the main terms of the divorce. This includes child custody and support. Usually, this will involve a settlement agreement as well as the division and payment of marital property 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 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