Do You Need a Lawyer for a Contested or Uncontested Arizona Divorce?
Are you unsure if you should hire a lawyer in Contested or Uncontested Divorce cases?
People often wonder if hiring a lawyer for a contested divorce is better than hiring one for an uncontested. But, do they really need to? These are the main benefits and drawbacks of each. Find out if you need a lawyer for your situation. Check out the pros and con of each. We'll also cover the differences in uncontested and contested divorces.
Cost of a Divorce
Although the costs for a contested or uncontested divorce can vary, the same principles apply to them both. Uncontested divorces are easier to handle, but it's more costly to file for trial. Attorney fees and court fees are usually the same for each, but a contested divorce can incur additional expenses. You can have a trial to dispute child support, maintenance and pensions or property division. These can add to the total divorce settlement.
Mediated divorce is affordable if the couple is able to reach an amicable agreement and there is no attempt to conceal anything. Mediating can help you and your spouse reach a mutually beneficial settlement agreement before you file for divorce. Some states require that a divorce be mediated before it is filed. In certain cases, judges may require mediation. It is important to realize that mediation may not work in all cases.
While both contested and uncontested divorces are expensive, uncontested divorces are the cheapest. However, a contested separation can cost more than $10,000. That includes attorney fees, court costs, as well as other expenses. Hiring an attorney can also add significant costs to your divorce, although an attorney can protect your rights. A study showed that 11% paid $100 per hour for an attorney, and 20% paid $400.
Time Required For A Divorce
You may be wondering what the difference is between a contested or uncontested divorce when you think about getting divorcéed. Although both are legal, the uncontested divorce is less costly. Uncontested divorces aren't 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. 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. However, each divorce is different and the timeframes can vary. Some divorces take only six weeks and are relatively quick. Others may take many months to resolve. It can take even longer if your spouse has been slow in returning paperwork. In these cases, it may be necessary to hire a lawyer.
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. A uncontested divorce is much easier because 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
The laws in your state will determine whether or not you need to hire a lawyer for contested v or uncontested divorce. Uncontested divorces are less common in states that require lawyers to file for divorce. Uncontested divorces tend to be less costly and involve less stress. Most people hire a lawyer to help them with contested divorces.
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. If both parties are happy with the settlement, the divorce proceedings can be finalized. A judge will sign judgments in states that don't require a final hearing. Some states require that there be a waiting period before a divorce is finalized.
Uncontested divorces require the cooperation of both parties. Both parties must agree to the major terms of an uncontested divorcement, including child custody, support, and maintenance. Usually, this involves a settlement agreement and the division of marital assets and debts. After the divorce is final, the judge will review the agreement and approve the final divorce decree. The cost of an uncontested divorce can be very affordable. In many states, a lawyer could cost as low as two hundred dollars.
For more information on Arizona Divorce Law, or help with a pending divorce case, visit one of the sites below