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 they will be able to save time and money by hiring a lawyer in a contested versus uncontested divorce. But, do they really need to? Here are the main advantages and disadvantages 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 discuss the differences between contested and 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. The costs of child support, maintenance of properties, pensions, and property distribution can all be litigated in court. This can affect a couple’s overall divorce settlement.
If your marriage is amicable and neither party is trying to hide something, a mediated divorce will be the least expensive option. 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. 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. 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 11% paid $100 or more per an hour to have an attorney represent them, while 20% paid $400.
Time Required For A Divorce
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, uncontested divorces tend to be less expensive. Uncontested divorces, however, 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 your spouse cannot agree on any important issues, you'll need to engage the services of an attorney or a mediator. In certain cases, you may be able obtain the divorce without the involvement of a lawyer.
A uncontested divorce can usually take six weeks if the spouse agrees on everything. The timeframe for divorce can vary depending on the circumstances. Some divorces are quick and simple, taking less than six weeks. Others can take months to resolve. It might take longer if your spouse takes too long to return paperwork. In any case, a lawyer may prove necessary.
Uncontested and contested divorces are distinguished by the length of the proceedings. When one party refuses to negotiate, the entire process can 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.
For Contested and Uncontested Divorces, You May Need to Have a Lawyer
It depends on the laws of your state as to whether you need a lawyer for uncontested or contested divorce. In states that require a lawyer to file for divorce, uncontested divorces are easier to obtain. Uncontested divorces can be less expensive and stressful than contested ones. They also tend to maintain the relationship between the parents. Most people hire a lawyer to help them with contested divorces.
Before you can decide whether to hire an attorney, it is important to understand the laws governing divorce. Many states require a final hearing before a divorce can be final. The divorce can be finalized if the parties reach an agreement on the settlement. In states that do not require a final hearing, a judge will sign the judgment. Some states require a waiting phase before a divorce decree can be 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. Usually, this will involve a settlement agreement as well as the division and payment of marital property and debts. The judge will then review the agreement and approve final divorce decrees. 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