Do You Need a Lawyer for a Contested or Uncontested Arizona Divorce?

Many people wonder whether hiring a lawyer in a contested versus an uncontested divorce will save them time and money. Is it really necessary? These are the main pros of both. To determine whether hiring a legal professional is appropriate for your case, read on. Don't forget about the pros and cons of each. We'll also discuss the differences between contested and uncontested divorces.

Divorce Cost

The costs of a contested versus uncontested divorce vary greatly, but the same principles apply to both. Although an uncontested divorce can be more straightforward, it is more expensive to file for a court hearing. The fees for attorney and court are the same. However, contested divorces can be more costly. Child support, maintenance of property, pensions, and property division can be contested in a trial, and the costs of these can increase a couple's total divorce settlement.

If your marriage is amicable and neither party is trying to hide something, a mediated divorce will be the least expensive option. 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. It is important to realize that mediation may not work in all cases.

Both contested and uncontested divorcing are costly, but uncontested divorces tend to be the least 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 that 11% spent $100 or more an hour on an attorney and 20% paid $400.

Will A Divorce Take A Long Time To Settle?

If you are thinking of getting divorced, it is likely that you are wondering what the differences are between a uncontested and contested divorce. Although both are legal, the uncontested divorce is less costly. Uncontested divorces may not be for everyone. Even if you and/or your spouse have made an agreement to file for divorce it does not mean that it will be easy. 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. Of course, every divorce is different, so the timeframe can vary considerably. Some divorces are simple and take less than six months. Some divorces can take several months to complete. If your spouse is slow to return paperwork, it could take much longer. In any case, a lawyer may prove necessary.

Uncontested and contested divorces are distinguished by the length of the proceedings. The entire process can be prolonged if one side refuses to negotiate. Uncontested divorces can be completed quickly because there is no dispute. This type divorce usually involves more stress which leads to both parties spending more time and money.

For Contested and Uncontested Divorces, You May Need to Have a Lawyer

You should choose whether you hire a lawyer to file for contested v divorce or uncontested divorce depending on the state's laws. In states that require a lawyer to file for divorce, uncontested divorces are 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.

Before you decide whether you want to hire a lawyer, it is important that your understanding of the laws regarding divorce be clear. Many states require a final hearing before a divorce can be final. If the parties agree to the settlement, then the divorce can be finalized. If there is no final hearing required, a judge can sign the judgment. Some states require that there be a waiting period before a divorce is finalized.

An uncontested divorce requires cooperation from both sides. Uncontested divorces are when both the spouses agree on the main terms of the divorce. This includes child custody and support. This usually involves a settlement agreement, the division of marital assets, and debts. After the divorce is final, the judge will review the agreement and approve the final divorce decree. Uncontested divorces are relatively inexpensive. 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

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