Do You Need a Lawyer for a Contested or Uncontested Arizona Divorce?
Should You Hire a Lawyer for a Contested Vs Uncontested Arizona Divorce?
Many people wonder whether hiring a lawyer in a contested versus an uncontested divorce will save them time and money. But is this really necessary? Here are the main pros and cons of both. Find out if you need a lawyer for your 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. A contested divorce is less complicated, but it is more expensive to have a trial. The attorney fees and court fee are usually the same. However, a divorce that is contested can lead to additional costs. 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.
A mediated divorce is the best option if your marriage is peaceful and you are not trying to hide anything. Mediating can help couples reach a settlement before they 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 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. 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.
Will A Divorce Take A Long Time To Settle?
It is possible to be confused about the differences between uncontested and contested divorces if you are considering getting divorced. Although both are legal, uncontested divorces tend to be less expensive. 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. An attorney or mediator can be hired if your spouse and you are not able to reach an agreement on any key issues. Sometimes, you might be able to obtain divorce without the need for a lawyer.
If you and your spouse agree on everything, an uncontested divorce will generally take about six weeks. Of course, every divorce is different, so the timeframe can vary considerably. Some divorces are simple and take less than six months. Others, however, require several months to resolve. It might take longer if your spouse takes too long to return paperwork. In any case, a lawyer may prove necessary.
Uncontested and contested divorces are distinguished by the length of the proceedings. When one party refuses to negotiate, the entire process can take months or even years. 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?
The laws in your state will determine whether or not you need to hire a lawyer for contested v or uncontested divorce. Uncontested divorces in states that require a divorce lawyer are much easier to obtain. 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. Most states require that a final hearing be held before a divorcing party can legally proceed. Once the parties have reached an agreement, the divorce can be finalized. If the state does not require a final hearing to end the divorce proceedings, a judge will sign it. Some states require a waiting period before a divorce can be finalized.
The cooperation of both the parties is required for uncontested divorces. In an uncontested divorce, both parties agree on the major terms of the divorce, including child custody and support. Typically, this involves a settlement and division of marital estates and debts. After the final divorce decree is approved, the judge will read the agreement and sign it. Uncontested divorces are relatively inexpensive. 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