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 are unsure if hiring a lawyer to represent them in a contested or uncontested divorce will help save time and money. But is it really necessary to hire a lawyer in a contested versus an uncontested divorce? These are the main benefits and drawbacks of each. Learn more to determine if a lawyer is right for you. Don't forget about the pros and cons of each. We'll also be discussing the differences between contested or uncontested divorces.
Divorce Cost
Although the costs for a contested or uncontested divorce can vary, the same principles apply to them both. A contested divorce is less complicated, but it is more expensive to have a trial. The attorney fees and court fee are usually the same. However, a divorce that is contested can lead to 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 a happy marriage where neither side is trying to hide anything. Mediating can help couples reach a settlement before they file 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. A contested divorce costs more than $10,000 including attorney fees and court costs. 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 divorces are legal, the former is much less expensive. Uncontested divorces aren't for everyone. Even if you and your spouse have agreed to file for a divorce, this doesn't mean that it's going to be a breeze. If you and your spouse cannot agree on any important issues, you'll need to engage the services of an attorney or a mediator. You may be able even to divorce your spouse without the help of a lawyer in some cases.
An uncontested divorce is usually only six weeks long if your spouse and you agree on everything. The timeframe for divorce can vary depending on the circumstances. Some divorces are easy and quick, lasting less than six week. Some cases take several months to settle. It might take longer if your spouse takes too long to return paperwork. In both cases, a lawyer may be necessary.
The biggest difference between uncontested and litigated divorces is how long it takes. When one party refuses to negotiate, the entire process can take months or even years. An uncontested divorce, on the other hand can be done quickly as no one is disputing anything. This type can be more stressful for both spouses, as they will need to spend more time on the divorce.
Uncontested vs Contested Divorce: What are the Requirements?
Your state's specific laws will dictate whether you need to hire a legal representative for contested vs uncontested divorce. Uncontested divorces can be obtained in those states that require you to hire a lawyer to file your divorce papers. Uncontested divorces are less stressful and more affordable, and tend to preserve the relationships between the spouses. 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. In many states, a final hearing must be held before a divorce is 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 period before a divorce can be finalized.
Both parties must cooperate in uncontested divorces. An uncontested divorce is when both spouses reach an agreement on the terms of the divorce. Usually, this involves a settlement agreement and the division of marital assets and debts. The final divorce decree will be approved by the judge after the agreement is reviewed and approved by the judge. The cost of an uncontested divorce can be very 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