Should You Hire a Lawyer for a Contested Vs Uncontested Arizona Divorce?
Are you unsure if you should hire a lawyer in Contested or Uncontested Divorce cases?
Many people are unsure if hiring a lawyer to represent them in a contested or uncontested divorce will help save time and money. But, do they really need to? Let's look at the pros and cons of each. You can decide if hiring a lawyer in your specific situation by reading the following. Check out the pros and con of each. We'll also cover the differences in uncontested and contested divorces.
Cost of a Divorce
While the costs of uncontested and contested divorces are very different, they all follow the same principles. 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 couples who are happy in their marriage and don't want to be accused of anything. Mediating can help couples reach a settlement before they file for divorce. Some states require that divorce proceedings are mediated before the filing deadline. In some cases, judges may require mediation. 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. However, a contested marriage can cost over $10,000. These costs include attorney fees, court expenses, and miscellaneous expenses. While an attorney is not required to represent you, it can increase the cost of your divorce. 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. Both divorces are legal but the first is cheaper. However, uncontested divorces are not 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 disagree on any significant issues, you should hire the services of an attorney. In certain cases, you may be able obtain the divorce without the involvement of a lawyer.
Uncontested divorces are usually completed in six weeks if you and your spouse can agree on everything. However, each divorce is different and the timeframes can vary. Some divorces are simple and take less than six months. Some cases take several months to settle. It may take longer if your spouse is slow in returning paperwork. In both cases, a lawyer may be necessary.
The main difference between uncontested and contested divorces is their length. The whole process can take months, if not years, if one of the parties refuses to compromise. Uncontested divorces can be completed quickly because there is no dispute. This type is often more stressful, so both sides will have to spend more time and more 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 are less common in states that require lawyers to file for divorce. Uncontested divorces are less stressful and more affordable, and tend to preserve the relationships between the spouses. Most people hire a lawyer to help them with contested divorces.
Before you decide whether to retain a lawyer for your divorce, make sure that you are familiar with the laws. In many states, a final hearing must be held before a divorce is final. The divorce can be finalized if the parties reach an agreement on the settlement. A judge will sign the judgment in cases that do not require a final court hearing. Some states require a waiting period before a divorce can be finalized.
Both parties must cooperate in uncontested divorces. Both the parties can agree on the key terms of an uncontested divorcement, including child custody rights and support. Typically, this involves a settlement and division of marital estates and debts. After the divorce is final, the judge will review the agreement and approve the final divorce decree. The cost for an uncontested divorce will be low. 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