Should You Hire a Lawyer for a Contested Vs Uncontested Arizona Divorce?
Do you really need a lawyer for a divorce in Arizona?
People often wonder if hiring a lawyer for a contested divorce is better than hiring one for an uncontested. Is it really necessary? Here are the main advantages and disadvantages of each. Find out if you need a lawyer for your situation. Also, don't forget the pros and cons. We'll also talk about the differences in contested and uncontested divorcing.
Divorce Cost
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. Although attorney fees and court fees are typically the same for both parties, a contested separation can result in 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.
Mediated divorce is best for couples who are happy in their marriage and don't want to be accused of anything. A couple can reach a settlement agreement through mediation before filing for divorce. Some states require that the divorce proceedings be mediated before they can be filed. Judges may also require mediation in certain cases. It is important to realize that mediation may not work in all cases.
Although both uncontested and contested divorces cost more, uncontested divorces will be less expensive. However, the costs of a contested divorce can exceed $10,000, including attorney fees, court costs, and other miscellaneous expenses. While an attorney is not required to represent you, it can increase the cost of your divorce. 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?
When you're thinking about getting divorced, you're probably wondering about the differences between a contested and an uncontested divorce. Both divorces are legal but the first is cheaper. 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 cannot agree on any important issues, you'll need to engage the services of an attorney or a mediator. Sometimes, you might be able to obtain divorce without the need for a lawyer.
Uncontested divorces usually last six weeks, if both you and your spouse are in agreement on everything. Every divorce is different so the timeline can vary. Some divorces take only six weeks and are relatively quick. Others, however, require several months to resolve. It might take longer if your spouse takes too long to return paperwork. A lawyer might be required in either case.
The most obvious difference between contested and uncontested divorces is the length of the process. If one party refuses negotiations, the whole process can take many 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.
What Is The Requirement to Hire a Lawyer for Contested vs 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 often involve less expense and stress, and can help to maintain the relationship between the couples. The most common reasons to hire a lawyer for contested divorces are property division and child custody.
Before you can decide whether to hire an attorney, it is important to understand the laws governing divorce. A final hearing is required in many states before a divorce can become final. Once the parties have reached an agreement, the divorce can be finalized. If there is no final hearing required, a judge can sign the judgment. Some states require that a waiting period be allowed before a divorce can take place.
Uncontested divorces are only possible with the cooperation of both spouses. An uncontested divorce is when both spouses reach an agreement on the terms of the divorce. Usually, this will involve a settlement agreement as well as the division and payment of marital property and debts. The judge will then review the agreement and approve final divorce decrees. The cost of an uncontested divorce can be very affordable. A lawyer can cost as low as $200 in many states.
For more information on Arizona Divorce Law, or help with a pending divorce case, visit one of the sites below