Should You Hire a Lawyer for a Contested Vs Uncontested Arizona Divorce?
Do You Need a Lawyer for a Contested or Uncontested Arizona Divorce?
Many people are unsure if hiring a lawyer to represent them in a contested or uncontested divorce will help save time and money. Is it really necessary? Here are the main advantages and disadvantages of each. Read on to decide whether hiring a lawyer is necessary in your particular situation. Also, don't forget the pros and cons. We will also talk about the differences between uncontested and contested divorces.
Divorce Cost
Although the costs of a divorce is more expensive than one that is uncontested, they are still affordable. Although an uncontested divorce can be more straightforward, it is more expensive to file for a court hearing. Attorney fees and court fees are usually the same for each, but a contested divorce can incur additional expenses. A trial can resolve disputes about child support, property division, maintenance of property, pensions, or child support. These costs can lead to a greater 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. It is important to realize that mediation may not work in all cases.
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 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?
If you are thinking of getting divorced, it is likely that you are wondering what the differences are between a uncontested and contested divorce. Both divorces are legal but the first is cheaper. Uncontested divorces, however, are not for everyone. Although you have reached an agreement to file for divorce, it doesn't guarantee that the process will be straightforward. You will need an attorney or mediator if you and your spouse are unable to agree on important issues. In some cases, you might even be able get divorce without the assistance of a lawyer.
An uncontested divorce is usually only six weeks long if your spouse and you agree on everything. However, each divorce is different and the timeframes can vary. Some divorces are quick and simple, taking less than six weeks. Some divorces can take several months to complete. It could take longer if your spouse is slow to complete 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 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 of divorce typically involves a lot more stress, which means that both parties have to spend more time and money on the divorce.
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. In states that require a lawyer to file for divorce, uncontested divorces are easier to obtain. There is often less stress and expense associated with uncontested divorces, and they tend to preserve the relationship between the parties. Most people hire a lawyer to help them with contested divorces.
It is essential that you understand the laws surrounding divorce before you make a decision about whether or not to hire a legal representative. Many states require a final hearing before a separation can be made final. If the parties agree to the settlement, then the divorce can be finalized. A judge will sign judgments in states that don't require a final hearing. Some states require a waiting time before a divorce can proceed.
The cooperation of both the parties is required for uncontested divorces. 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. After the divorce is final, the judge will review the agreement and approve the final divorce decree. The uncontested divorce is relatively affordable. In many states, a divorce lawyer costs as little as $200.
For more information on Arizona Divorce Law, or help with a pending divorce case, visit one of the sites below