Should You Hire a Lawyer for a Contested Vs Uncontested Arizona Divorce?
Do you really need a lawyer for a divorce in Arizona?
Many people are unsure if hiring a lawyer to represent them in a contested or uncontested divorce will help save time and money. Is it really necessary? Here are the main pros and cons of both. Read on to decide whether hiring a lawyer is necessary in your particular situation. Check out the pros and con of each. 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. An uncontested divorce is simpler to finalize, but it can cost more to file for a hearing. 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 affordable if the couple is able to reach an amicable agreement and there is no attempt to conceal anything. Mediation can help a couple reach a settlement agreement before filing for a 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.
Uncontested divorces, while more expensive than contested ones, are usually the most affordable. However, a contested marriage can cost over $10,000. These costs include attorney fees, court expenses, and miscellaneous expenses. Hiring an attorney can also add significant costs to your divorce, although an attorney can 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 to Settle?
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, however, are not for everyone. Even if you have agreed to file for divorce, that doesn't mean it will be an easy process. An attorney or mediator can be hired if your spouse and you are not able to reach an agreement on any key issues. You may be able even to divorce your spouse without the help of a lawyer in some cases.
A uncontested divorce can usually take six weeks if the spouse agrees 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. If one party refuses negotiations, the whole process can take many months or even years. On the other hand, an uncontested divorce can go through relatively quickly, because no one is disputing anything. This type of divorce is more stressful and requires both the parties to invest more time and money.
Uncontested vs Contested Divorce: What are the Requirements?
The laws in your state will determine whether or not you need to hire a lawyer for contested v or uncontested divorce. Uncontested divorces in states that require a divorce lawyer are much easier to obtain. There is often less stress and expense associated with uncontested divorces, and they tend to preserve the relationship between the parties. Common reasons to hire a lawyer when contested divorcing are child custody and property division.
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 both parties are happy with the settlement, the divorce proceedings can be finalized. If there is no final hearing required, a judge can sign the judgment. Some states require a waiting phase before a divorce decree can be finalized.
Uncontested divorces are only possible with the cooperation of both spouses. 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 uncontested divorce is relatively affordable. In many states, a lawyer may cost as little 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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