Should You Hire a Lawyer for a Contested Vs Uncontested Arizona Divorce?

People often wonder if hiring a lawyer for a contested divorce is better than hiring one for an uncontested. Is it really necessary? These are the main benefits and drawbacks of each. Learn more to determine if a lawyer is right for you. And don't forget to check out the other pros and cons of each as well. We'll also cover the differences in uncontested and contested divorces.

Cost of a Divorce

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. You can have a trial to dispute child support, maintenance and pensions or property division. These can add to the 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 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.

Both contested and uncontested divorcing are costly, but uncontested divorces tend to be the least expensive. However, a contested separation can cost more than $10,000. That includes attorney fees, court costs, as well as other expenses. An attorney can be costly, but it can help you protect your rights. One study found 11% paid $100 or more per an hour to have an attorney represent them, while 20% paid $400.

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 may not be 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. An attorney or mediator can be hired if your spouse and you are not able to reach an agreement on any key issues. In certain cases, you may be able obtain the divorce without the involvement of a lawyer.

Uncontested divorces usually last six weeks, if both you and your spouse are in agreement on everything. However, each divorce is different and the timeframes can vary. Some divorces are simple and take less than six months. Some cases take several months to settle. 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. When one party refuses to negotiate, the entire process can take months or even years. However, uncontested divorces are much more straightforward because no one disputes anything. This type can be more stressful for both spouses, as they will need to spend more time on the divorce.

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. In states that require a lawyer to file for divorce, uncontested divorces are easier to obtain. Uncontested divorces can be less expensive and stressful than contested ones. They also tend to maintain the relationship between the parents. 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. In many states, a final hearing must be held before a divorce is 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 a waiting phase before a divorce decree can be finalized.

The cooperation of both the parties is required for uncontested divorces. Both the parties can agree on the key terms of an uncontested divorcement, including child custody rights and support. Usually, this involves a settlement agreement and the division of marital assets and debts. After the final divorce decree is approved, the judge will read the agreement and sign it. The cost of an uncontested divorce can be very affordable. 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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