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. But is it really necessary to hire a lawyer in a contested versus an uncontested divorce? These are the main pros of both. Read on to decide whether hiring a lawyer is necessary in your particular situation. Don't forget about the pros and cons of each. We will also talk about the differences between uncontested and contested divorces.

Divorce Cost

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. The fees for attorney and court are the same. However, contested divorces can be more costly. Child support, maintenance of property, pensions, and property division can be contested in a trial, and the costs of these can increase a couple's total divorce settlement.

Mediated divorce is affordable if the couple is able to reach an amicable agreement and there is no attempt to conceal 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. But mediation may not always be the best option in every case.

While both contested and uncontested divorces are expensive, uncontested divorces are the cheapest. However, a contested separation can cost more than $10,000. That includes attorney fees, court costs, as well as other expenses. While an attorney is not required to represent you, it can increase the cost of your divorce. 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

When you're thinking about getting divorced, you're probably wondering about the differences between a contested and an uncontested divorce. Although both are legal, the uncontested divorce is less costly. Uncontested divorces might not be right 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 some cases, you may even be able to get the divorce without a lawyer.

An uncontested divorce is usually only six weeks long if your spouse and you agree on everything. Each divorce is unique, so time frames can vary greatly. Some divorces are simple and take less than six months. Some cases take several months to settle. It can take even longer if your spouse has been slow in returning paperwork. In both cases, a lawyer may be necessary.

The main difference between uncontested and contested divorces is their length. The entire process can be prolonged if one side refuses to negotiate. 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.

Is A Lawyer Required for Contested or Uncontested Divorce

You should choose whether you hire a lawyer to file for contested v divorce or uncontested divorce depending on the state's laws. Uncontested divorces are less common in states that require lawyers to file for divorce. Uncontested divorces tend to be less costly and involve less stress. Property division and child custody are the most common reasons for hiring a lawyer in contested divorce cases.

Before you decide whether to retain a lawyer for your divorce, make sure that you are familiar with the laws. A final hearing is required in many states before a divorce can become final. If the parties agree to the settlement, then 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 that there be a waiting period before a divorce is finalized.

Uncontested divorces require the cooperation of both parties. In an uncontested divorce, both parties agree on the major terms of the divorce, including 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. The uncontested divorce is relatively affordable. A lawyer can cost as low as $200 in many states.

For more information on Arizona Divorce Law, or help with a pending divorce case, visit one of the sites below

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