Do You Need a Lawyer for a Contested or Uncontested Arizona Divorce?
What is the best way to get a lawyer to represent you in a contested or uncontested divorce?
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 to hire a lawyer in a contested versus an uncontested divorce? These are the main benefits and drawbacks of each. To determine whether hiring a legal professional is appropriate for your case, read on. Don't forget about the pros and cons of each. We will also talk about the differences between uncontested and contested divorces.
How Much Will A Divorce Cost?
While the costs of a contested and uncontested divorce are different, they both have similar costs. Uncontested divorces are easier to handle, but it's more costly to file for trial. The attorney fees and court fee are usually the same. However, a divorce that is contested can lead to additional costs. 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.
If your marriage is amicable and neither party is trying to hide something, a mediated divorce will be the least expensive option. A couple can reach a settlement agreement through mediation before filing for divorce. Some states require that divorces be mediate before filing, and judges can require mediation in specific cases. You should know that mediation might not be the best choice for all situations.
Although both uncontested and contested divorces cost more, uncontested divorces will be less expensive. However, the costs of a contested divorce can exceed $10,000, including attorney fees, court costs, and other miscellaneous expenses. Hiring an attorney can also add significant costs to your divorce, although an attorney can protect your rights. One study revealed that 11% of respondents paid $100 per hour or more for an attorney while 20% paid $400 or higher.
Time Required For A Divorce
It is possible to be confused about the differences between uncontested and contested divorces if you are considering getting divorced. Although both are legal, the uncontested divorce is less costly. 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. You will need an attorney or mediator if you and your spouse are unable to agree on important issues. In certain cases, you may be able obtain the divorce without the involvement of a lawyer.
An uncontested divorce is usually only six weeks long if your spouse and you agree on everything. Every divorce is different so the timeline can vary. Some divorces are simple and take less than six months. Some cases take several months to settle. It might take longer if your spouse takes too long to return paperwork. A lawyer might be required in either case.
The main difference between uncontested and contested divorces is their length. 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 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. There is often less stress and expense associated with uncontested divorces, and they tend to preserve the relationship between the parties. Common reasons to hire a lawyer when contested divorcing are child custody and property division.
Before you decide whether to retain a lawyer for your divorce, make sure that you are familiar with the laws. Most states require that a final hearing be held before a divorcing party can legally proceed. If both parties are happy with the settlement, the divorce proceedings 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 a waiting period be allowed before a divorce can take place.
The cooperation of both the parties is required for uncontested divorces. An uncontested divorce is when both spouses reach an agreement on the terms of the divorce. Typically, this involves a settlement and division of marital estates and debts. 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 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