Do you really need a lawyer for a divorce in Arizona?

People often wonder if hiring a lawyer for a contested divorce is better than hiring one for an uncontested. But is it really necessary to hire a lawyer in a contested versus an uncontested divorce? Here are the main advantages and disadvantages of each. Learn more to determine if a lawyer is right for you. You should also consider the other benefits and drawbacks of each. We'll also cover the differences in uncontested and contested divorces.

How Much Will A Divorce Cost?

While the costs of uncontested and contested divorces are very different, they all follow the same principles. While an uncontested divorce is easier to get through, it costs more to file for a trial. While attorney fees and court costs are generally the same, a contested divorce may incur additional expenses. 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 affordable if the couple is able to reach an amicable agreement and there is no attempt to conceal anything. A couple can reach a settlement agreement through mediation before filing for 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 uncontested and contested divorces cost more, uncontested divorces will be less expensive. 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.

How Long Does A Divorce Take?

There are two types of divorce: contested and uncontested. While both divorces are legal, the former is much less expensive. Uncontested divorces may not be for everyone. Even if you have agreed to file for divorce, that doesn't mean it will be an easy process. If you and your spouse cannot agree on any important issues, you'll need to engage the services of an attorney or a mediator. 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. Others may take many months to resolve. It may take longer if your spouse is slow in returning paperwork. In any case, a lawyer may prove 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. 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.

Am I Required to Hire a Lawyer for a Uncontested or Contested divorce?

Your state's specific laws will dictate whether you need to hire a legal representative for contested vs uncontested divorce. Uncontested divorces can be obtained in those states that require you to hire a lawyer to file your divorce papers. Uncontested divorces are less stressful and more affordable, and tend to preserve the relationships between the spouses. Property division and child custody are the most common reasons for hiring a lawyer in contested divorce cases.

Before you decide whether you want to hire a lawyer, it is important that your understanding of the laws regarding divorce be clear. 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. A judge will sign the judgment in cases that do not require a final court hearing. Some states require that a waiting period be allowed before a divorce can take place.

Uncontested divorces are only possible with the cooperation of both spouses. Uncontested divorces are when both the spouses agree on the main terms of the divorce. This includes child custody and support. Most often, this includes a settlement agreement and division of marital debts and assets. The final divorce decree will be approved by the judge after the agreement is reviewed and approved by the judge. The cost for an uncontested divorce will be low. In many states, a lawyer may cost as little as two hundred dollars.

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

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