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 whether hiring a lawyer in a contested versus an uncontested divorce will save them time and money. But, is it really necessary? These are the main benefits and drawbacks of each. Find out if you need a lawyer for your situation. You should also consider the other benefits and drawbacks of each. We'll also be discussing the differences between contested or uncontested divorces.
How Much Will A Divorce Cost?
The costs of a contested versus uncontested divorce vary greatly, but the same principles apply to both. Although an uncontested divorce can be more straightforward, it is more expensive to file for a court 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.
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 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. However, you should be aware that mediation may not be the best option for every situation.
While both contested and uncontested divorces are expensive, uncontested divorces are the cheapest. However, a contested marriage can cost over $10,000. These costs include attorney fees, court expenses, and miscellaneous expenses. Hiring an attorney can also add significant costs to your divorce, although an attorney can protect your rights. One study found that 11% of respondents paid an attorney $100 or more per hour, while 20% paid $400 or more.
Will A Divorce Take A Long Time To Settle?
You may be wondering what the difference is between a contested or uncontested divorce when you think about getting divorcéed. Both divorces are legal but the first is cheaper. Uncontested divorces, however, are not 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. If you and your spouse disagree on any significant issues, you should hire the services of an attorney. In some cases, you may even be able to get the divorce without 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 divorces can take several months to complete. It may take longer if your spouse is slow in returning paperwork. In these cases, it may be necessary to hire a lawyer.
The biggest difference between uncontested and litigated divorces is how long it takes. The entire process can be prolonged if one side refuses to negotiate. However, uncontested divorces are much more straightforward because no one disputes anything. This type divorce usually involves more stress which leads to both parties spending more time and money.
Is A Lawyer Required for Contested or 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 in states that require a divorce lawyer are much easier to obtain. Uncontested divorces tend to be less costly and involve less stress. Common reasons to hire a lawyer when contested divorcing are child custody and property division.
It is essential that you understand the laws surrounding divorce before you make a decision about whether or not to hire a legal representative. Most states require that a final hearing be held before a divorcing party can legally proceed. 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 that a waiting period be allowed before a divorce can take place.
Uncontested divorces require the cooperation of both parties. An uncontested divorce is when both spouses reach an agreement on the terms of the divorce. 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 cost for an uncontested divorce will be low. 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