Do You Need a Lawyer for a Contested or Uncontested Arizona Divorce?
What is the best way to get a lawyer to represent you in a contested or uncontested 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? These are the main benefits and drawbacks of each. Find out if you need a lawyer for your situation. And don't forget to check out the other pros and cons of each as well. We'll also be discussing the differences between contested or uncontested divorces.
Cost of a Divorce
The costs of a contested versus uncontested divorce vary greatly, but the same principles apply to both. While an uncontested divorce is easier to get through, it costs more to file for a trial. 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 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 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.
While both contested and uncontested divorces are expensive, uncontested divorces are the cheapest. However, the costs of a contested divorce can exceed $10,000, including attorney fees, court costs, and other miscellaneous expenses. An attorney can be costly, but it can help you protect your rights. One study found that 11% of respondents paid an attorney $100 or more per hour, while 20% paid $400 or more.
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. However, uncontested divorces are not 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/or your spouse can't agree on any major issues, you will need to hire an attorney or mediator. In certain cases, you may be able obtain the divorce without the involvement of 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 quick and simple, taking less than six weeks. Others can take months to resolve. It may take longer if your spouse is slow in returning paperwork. In these cases, it may be necessary to hire a lawyer.
The biggest difference between uncontested and litigated divorces is how long it takes. If one party refuses negotiation, the whole process could 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.
Am I Required to Hire a Lawyer for a Uncontested or Contested divorce?
It depends on the laws of your state as to whether you need a lawyer for uncontested or contested divorce. Uncontested divorces can be obtained in those states that require you to hire a lawyer to file your divorce papers. Uncontested divorces can be less expensive and stressful than contested ones. They also tend to maintain the relationship between the parents. Property division and child custody are the most common reasons for hiring a lawyer in contested divorce cases.
It is essential that you understand the laws surrounding divorce before you make a decision about whether or not to hire a legal representative. Many states require a final hearing before a divorce can be final. The final hearing can only be held if both the parties and the judge agree to the settlement. A judge will sign the judgment in cases that do not require a final court hearing. Some states require that a waiting period be allowed before a divorce can take place.
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 divorce is final, the judge will review the agreement and approve the final divorce decree. The cost of the uncontested divorce is low. 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