Do You Need a Lawyer for a Contested or Uncontested Arizona Divorce?
Do You Need a Lawyer for a Contested or Uncontested Arizona Divorce?
People often wonder if hiring a lawyer for a contested divorce is better than hiring one for an uncontested. But is this really necessary? Here are the main advantages and disadvantages of each. Read on to decide whether hiring a lawyer is necessary in your particular situation. Check out the pros and con of each. We'll also talk about the differences in contested and uncontested divorcing.
How Much Will A Divorce Cost?
While the costs of uncontested and contested divorces are very different, they all follow the same principles. While an uncontested divorce is easier to get through, it costs more to file for 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 help a couple reach a settlement agreement before filing for a divorce. Some states require that the divorce proceedings be mediated before they can be filed. Judges may also require mediation in certain cases. But mediation may not always be the best option in every case.
Although both contested or uncontested divorces can be costly, uncontested are typically the most expensive. The costs of a contested divorcing can reach $10,000. This includes attorney fees, court costs and any other miscellaneous costs. Although an attorney may be able to protect your rights, hiring an attorney can add considerable costs to your divorce proceedings. One study found 11% paid $100 or more per an hour to have an attorney represent them, while 20% paid $400.
Will A Divorce Take A Long Time To Settle?
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, the uncontested divorce is less costly. Uncontested divorces might not be right for everyone. Although you have reached an agreement to file for divorce, it doesn't guarantee that the process will be straightforward. 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. Each divorce is unique, so time frames can vary greatly. Some divorces are quick and simple, taking less than six weeks. Some divorces can take several months to complete. It could take longer if your spouse is slow to complete paperwork. In both cases, a lawyer may be necessary.
The biggest difference between uncontested and litigated divorces is how long it takes. The entire process can be prolonged if one side refuses to negotiate. However, uncontested divorces are much more straightforward because no one disputes anything. This type divorce usually involves more stress which leads to both parties spending more time and money.
Am I Required to Hire a Lawyer for a Uncontested or Contested 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. Most people hire a lawyer to help them with contested divorces.
Before you can decide whether to hire an attorney, it is important to understand the laws governing divorce. 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. A judge will sign judgments in states that don't require a final hearing. Some states require a waiting period before a divorce can be 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. Most often, this includes a settlement agreement and division of marital debts and assets. The final divorce decree will be approved by the judge after the agreement is reviewed and approved by the judge. 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