Do you really need a lawyer for a divorce in Arizona?
Do you really need a lawyer for a divorce in Arizona?
Many people wonder if they will be able to save time and money by hiring a lawyer in a contested versus uncontested divorce. But is it really necessary to hire a lawyer in a contested versus an uncontested divorce? Here are the main pros and cons of both. To determine whether hiring a legal professional is appropriate for your case, read on. Also, don't forget the pros and cons. We will also talk about the differences between uncontested and contested divorces.
How Much Will A Divorce Cost?
While the costs of a contested and uncontested divorce are different, they both have similar costs. Although an uncontested divorce can be more straightforward, it is more expensive to file for a court hearing. 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.
If your marriage is amicable and neither party is trying to hide something, a mediated divorce will be the least expensive option. Mediation can help a couple reach a settlement agreement before filing for a divorce. Some states require that a divorce be mediated before it is filed. In certain cases, judges may require mediation. But mediation may not always be the best option in every case.
Although both contested or uncontested divorces can be costly, uncontested are typically the most 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 revealed that 11% of respondents paid $100 per hour or more for an attorney while 20% paid $400 or higher.
How Long Does A Divorce Take?
It is possible to be confused about the differences between uncontested and contested divorces if you are considering getting divorced. While both divorces are legal, the former is much less expensive. Uncontested divorces may not be for everyone. It doesn't necessarily mean that a divorce will be easy even if your spouse has agreed to file. You will need an attorney or mediator if you and your spouse are unable to agree on important issues. 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. Each divorce is unique, so time frames can vary greatly. Some divorces are easy and quick, lasting less than six week. Some cases take several months to settle. It could take longer if your spouse is slow to complete 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. An uncontested divorce, on the other hand can be done quickly as no one is disputing anything. This type of divorce is more stressful and requires both the parties to invest more time and money.
What Is The Requirement to Hire a Lawyer for Contested vs Uncontested Divorce?
Your state's specific laws will dictate whether you need to hire a legal representative for contested vs uncontested divorce. In states that require a lawyer to file for divorce, uncontested divorces are easier to obtain. 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.
When determining whether to hire a lawyer, you should first understand the laws regarding divorce. A final hearing is required in many states before a divorce can become final. Once the parties have reached an agreement, the divorce 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 phase before a divorce decree 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. Most often, this includes a settlement agreement and division of marital debts and assets. The judge will then review the agreement and approve final divorce decrees. The uncontested divorce is relatively affordable. In some states, a lawyer might cost as little as 200 dollars.
For more information on Arizona Divorce Law, or help with a pending divorce case, visit one of the sites below