Should You Hire a Lawyer for a Contested Vs Uncontested Arizona Divorce?
What is the best way to get a lawyer to represent you in a contested or uncontested 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 pros and cons of both. Read on to decide whether hiring a lawyer is necessary in your particular situation. Check out the pros and con of each. We'll also be discussing the differences between contested or uncontested divorces.
How Much Will A Divorce Cost?
Although the costs of a divorce is more expensive than one that is uncontested, they are still affordable. 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. You can have a trial to dispute child support, maintenance and pensions or property division. These can add to the total divorce settlement.
A mediated divorce is the best option if your marriage is peaceful and you are not trying to hide anything. Mediation can help a couple reach a settlement agreement before filing for a divorce. Some states require that a divorce be mediated before it is filed. In certain cases, judges may require mediation. However, you should be aware that mediation may not be the best option for every situation.
Uncontested divorces, while more expensive than contested ones, are usually the most affordable. However, a contested marriage can cost over $10,000. These costs include attorney fees, court expenses, and miscellaneous expenses. Hiring an attorney can also add significant costs to your divorce, although an attorney can protect your rights. One study found that 11% of respondents paid an attorney $100 or more per hour, while 20% paid $400 or more.
Time Required For A Divorce
If you are thinking of getting divorced, it is likely that you are wondering what the differences are between a uncontested and contested divorce. While both types of divorce are legal, the cost of the former is significantly less. Uncontested divorces aren't 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 disagree on any significant issues, you should hire the services of an attorney. In some cases, you may even be able to get the divorce without 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 can be completed in less than six weeks. Others may take many months to resolve. It can take even longer if your spouse has been slow in returning paperwork. In both cases, a lawyer may be necessary.
Uncontested and contested divorces are distinguished by the length of the proceedings. The whole process can take months, if not years, if one of the parties refuses to compromise. On the other hand, an uncontested divorce can go through relatively quickly, because no one is disputing anything. This type can be more stressful for both spouses, as they will need to spend more time on the divorce.
Am I Required to Hire a Lawyer for a Uncontested or Contested divorce?
It depends on the laws of your state as to whether you need a lawyer for uncontested or contested divorce. Uncontested divorces are less common in states that require lawyers to file for divorce. Uncontested divorces tend to be less costly and involve less stress. 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. Many states require a final hearing before a separation can be made 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 that there be a waiting period before a divorce is finalized.
Uncontested divorces require the cooperation of both parties. In an uncontested divorce, both parties agree on the major terms of the divorce, including child custody and support. Typically, this involves a settlement and division of marital estates and debts. The judge will then review the agreement and approve final divorce decrees. The cost of an uncontested divorce can be very affordable. In many states, a lawyer could cost as low as two hundred dollars.
For more information on Arizona Divorce Law, or help with a pending divorce case, visit one of the sites below