Do you really need a lawyer for a divorce in Arizona?
Are you unsure if you should hire a lawyer in Contested or Uncontested Divorce cases?
Many people wonder if they will be able to save time and money by hiring a lawyer in a contested versus uncontested divorce. Is it really necessary? Here are the main advantages and disadvantages of each. Learn more to determine if a lawyer is right for you. Also, don't forget the pros and cons. We'll also talk about the differences in contested and uncontested divorcing.
How Much Will A Divorce Cost?
The costs of a contested versus uncontested divorce vary greatly, but the same principles apply to both. Uncontested divorces are easier to handle, but it's more costly to file for trial. The attorney fees and court fee are usually the same. However, a divorce that is contested can lead to additional costs. 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.
Mediated divorce is best for couples who are happy in their marriage and don't want to be accused of anything. Mediating can help you and your spouse reach a mutually beneficial settlement agreement before you file for divorce. Some states require divorces to be mediated before filing. Judges can also require mediation in some cases. But mediation may not always be the best option in every case.
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. While an attorney is not required to represent you, it can increase the cost of your divorce. A study showed that 11% paid $100 per hour for an attorney, and 20% paid $400.
Time Required For A Divorce
It is possible to be confused about the differences between uncontested and contested divorces if you are considering getting divorced. Although both are legal, the uncontested divorce is less costly. Uncontested divorces may not be for everyone. Even if you and/or your spouse have made an agreement to file for divorce it does not mean that it will be easy. An attorney or mediator can be hired if your spouse and you are not able to reach an agreement on any key issues. In some cases, you might even be able get divorce without the assistance of a lawyer.
Uncontested divorces are usually completed in six weeks if you and your spouse can agree 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 can take even longer if your spouse has been slow in returning 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. However, uncontested divorces are much more straightforward because no one disputes anything. This type of divorce typically involves a lot more stress, which means that both parties have to spend more time and money on the divorce.
What Is The Requirement to Hire a Lawyer for Contested vs Uncontested Divorce?
The laws in your state will determine whether or not you need to hire a lawyer for contested v or uncontested divorce. Uncontested divorces are more common in states that require the use of a lawyer for filing for divorce. Uncontested divorces tend to be less costly and involve less stress. Most people hire a lawyer to help them with contested divorces.
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 divorce can be finalized if the parties reach an agreement on the settlement. If the state does not require a final hearing to end the divorce proceedings, a judge will sign it. Some states require a waiting phase before a divorce decree can be finalized.
Uncontested divorces require the cooperation of both parties. Both the parties can agree on the key terms of an uncontested divorcement, including child custody rights and support. This usually involves a settlement agreement, the division of marital assets, 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