Should You Hire a Lawyer for a Contested Vs Uncontested Arizona Divorce?
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? Let's look at the pros and cons of each. You can decide if hiring a lawyer in your specific situation by reading the following. And don't forget to check out the other pros and cons of each as well. We will also talk about the differences between uncontested and contested divorces.
Divorce Cost
While the costs of a contested and uncontested divorce are different, they both have similar costs. A contested divorce is less complicated, but it is more expensive to have a 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.
Mediated divorce is affordable if the couple is able to reach an amicable agreement and there is no attempt to conceal anything. 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. Mediation may not be the best solution for every case.
While both contested and uncontested divorces are expensive, uncontested divorces are the cheapest. 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.
How Long Does A Divorce Take?
You may be wondering what the difference is between a contested or uncontested divorce when you think about getting divorcéed. While both divorces are legal, the former is much less expensive. Uncontested divorces, however, 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. If you and your spouse cannot agree on any important issues, you'll need to engage the services of an attorney or a mediator. Sometimes, you might be able to obtain divorce without the need for a lawyer.
Uncontested divorces are usually completed in six weeks if you and your spouse can agree on everything. Of course, every divorce is different, so the timeframe can vary considerably. Some divorces are quick and simple, taking less than six weeks. Some cases take several months to settle. It might take longer if your spouse takes too long to return paperwork. In any case, a lawyer may prove necessary.
The main difference between uncontested and contested divorces is their length. If one party refuses negotiation, the whole process could 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.
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. Uncontested divorces are more common in states that require the use of a lawyer for filing for divorce. Uncontested divorces can be less expensive and stressful than contested ones. They also tend to maintain the relationship between the parents. For contested divorces, the most common reasons to hire an attorney are for property division and child custody.
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. In states that do not require a final hearing, a judge will sign the judgment. Some states require a waiting time before a divorce can proceed.
Both parties must cooperate in uncontested divorces. Uncontested divorces are when both the spouses agree on the main terms of the divorce. This includes child custody and support. This usually involves a settlement agreement, the division of marital assets, and debts. After the divorce is final, the judge will review the agreement and approve the final divorce decree. 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