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 it really necessary to hire a lawyer in a contested versus an uncontested divorce? Here are the main advantages and disadvantages of each. Learn more to determine if a lawyer is right for you. Also, don't forget the pros and cons. We'll also cover the differences in uncontested and contested divorces.
Divorce Cost
While the costs of a contested and uncontested divorce are different, they both have similar costs. An uncontested divorce is simpler to finalize, but it can cost more to file for a hearing. Attorney fees and court fees are usually the same for each, but a contested divorce can incur additional expenses. A trial can resolve disputes about child support, property division, maintenance of property, pensions, or child support. These costs can lead to a greater divorce settlement.
Mediated divorce is best for a happy marriage where neither side is trying to hide anything. A couple can reach a settlement agreement through mediation before filing for divorce. Some states require that divorces be mediate before filing, and judges can require mediation in specific cases. But mediation may not always be the best option in every case.
Although both uncontested and contested divorces cost more, uncontested divorces will be less expensive. However, a contested marriage can cost over $10,000. These costs include attorney fees, court expenses, and miscellaneous expenses. An attorney can be costly, but it can help you protect your rights. A study showed that 11% paid $100 per hour for an attorney, and 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. While both types of divorce are legal, the cost of the former is significantly less. 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. You will need an attorney or mediator if you and your spouse are unable to agree on important issues. In some cases, you may even be able to get the divorce without a lawyer.
A uncontested divorce can usually take six weeks if the spouse agrees on everything. Of course, every divorce is different, so the timeframe can vary considerably. Some divorces are quick and simple, taking less than six weeks. Some cases take several months to settle. If your spouse is slow to return paperwork, it could take much longer. In either case, a lawyer may be necessary.
The length of the divorce process is the most noticeable difference between contested and unsuspected. If one party refuses negotiation, the whole process could take months or even years. An uncontested divorce, on the other hand can be done quickly as no one is disputing anything. This type of divorce typically involves a lot more stress, which means that both parties have to spend more time and money on the divorce.
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 in states that require a divorce lawyer are much easier to obtain. 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.
It is essential that you understand the laws surrounding divorce before you make a decision about whether or not to hire a legal representative. A final hearing is required in many states before a divorce can become final. If both parties are happy with the settlement, the divorce proceedings 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 phase before a divorce decree can be finalized.
An uncontested divorce requires cooperation from both sides. Both parties must agree to the major terms of an uncontested divorcement, including child custody, support, and maintenance. This usually involves a settlement agreement, the division of marital assets, and debts. After the final divorce decree is approved, the judge will read the agreement and sign it. The cost of an uncontested divorce can be very affordable. 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