Should You Hire a Lawyer for a Contested Vs Uncontested Arizona Divorce?
Do You Need a Lawyer for a Contested or Uncontested Arizona Divorce?
Many people wonder if it is worth hiring a lawyer for a contested rather than an uncontested divorcement. Is it really necessary? These are the main benefits and drawbacks of each. You can decide if hiring a lawyer in your specific situation by reading the following. And don't forget to check out the other pros and cons of each as well. We'll also discuss the differences between contested and uncontested divorces.
Cost of a Divorce
Although the costs of a divorce is more expensive than one that is uncontested, they are still affordable. 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 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 the divorce proceedings be mediated before they can be filed. Judges may also require mediation in certain cases. However, you should be aware that mediation may not be the best option for every situation.
Both contested and uncontested divorcing are costly, but uncontested divorces tend to be the least expensive. The costs of a contested divorcing can reach $10,000. This includes attorney fees, court costs and any other miscellaneous costs. Hiring an attorney can also add significant costs to your divorce, although an attorney can protect your rights. A study showed that 11% paid $100 per hour for an attorney, and 20% paid $400.
Time Required For A Divorce
You may be wondering what the difference is between a contested or uncontested divorce when you think about getting divorcéed. While both types of divorce are legal, the cost of the former is significantly less. 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. If you and your spouse disagree on any significant issues, you should hire the services of an attorney. 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. However, each divorce is different and the timeframes can vary. Some divorces can be completed in less than six weeks. Others can take months to resolve. It could take longer if your spouse is slow to complete paperwork. In these cases, it may be necessary to hire a lawyer.
The main difference between uncontested and contested divorces is their length. The entire process can be prolonged if one side refuses to negotiate. 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.
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 can be obtained in those states that require you to hire a lawyer to file your divorce papers. 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.
When determining whether to hire a lawyer, you should first understand the laws regarding divorce. Most states require that a final hearing be held before a divorcing party can legally proceed. If both parties are happy with the settlement, the divorce proceedings can be finalized. A judge will sign judgments in states that don't require a final hearing. Some states require a waiting time before a divorce can proceed.
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. Usually, this will involve a settlement agreement as well as the division and payment of marital property and debts. After the divorce is final, the judge will review the agreement and approve the final divorce decree. 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