What is the best way to get a lawyer to represent you in a contested or uncontested divorce?
Do you really need a lawyer for a divorce in Arizona?
People often wonder if hiring a lawyer for a contested divorce is better than hiring one for an uncontested. But, do they really need to? Let's look at the pros and cons of each. Find out if you need a lawyer for your situation. And don't forget to check out the other pros and cons of each as well. We'll also talk about the differences in contested and uncontested divorcing.
How Much Will A Divorce Cost?
Although the costs for a contested or uncontested divorce can vary, the same principles apply to them both. 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. 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.
A mediated divorce is the best option if your marriage is peaceful and you are not trying to hide anything. Mediation can be used to help couples reach a compromise agreement before filing for divorce. Some states require that a divorce be mediated before it is filed. In certain cases, judges may require mediation. But mediation may not always be the best option in every case.
Both contested and uncontested divorcing are costly, but uncontested divorces tend to be the least expensive. A contested divorce costs more than $10,000 including attorney fees and court costs. An attorney can be costly, but it can help you 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.
How Long Does A Divorce Take to Settle?
When you're thinking about getting divorced, you're probably wondering about the differences between a contested and an uncontested divorce. While both divorces are legal, the former is much less expensive. However, uncontested divorces are not 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. You will need an attorney or mediator if you and your spouse are unable to agree on important issues. Sometimes, you might be able to obtain divorce without the need for a lawyer.
A uncontested divorce can usually take six weeks if the spouse agrees on everything. However, each divorce is different and the timeframes can vary. Some divorces are quick and simple, taking less than six weeks. Others, however, require several months to resolve. If your spouse is slow to return paperwork, it could take much longer. In these cases, it may be necessary to hire a lawyer.
The biggest difference between uncontested and litigated divorces is how long it takes. If one party refuses negotiation, the whole process could take months or even years. However, uncontested divorces are much more straightforward because no one disputes anything. 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.
Uncontested vs Contested Divorce: What are the Requirements?
It depends on the laws of your state as to whether you need a lawyer for uncontested or contested divorce. Uncontested divorces are more common in states that require the use of a lawyer for filing for divorce. Uncontested divorces often involve less expense and stress, and can help to maintain the relationship between the couples. 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 divorce can be final. If both parties are happy with the settlement, the divorce proceedings 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.
An uncontested divorce requires cooperation from both sides. Uncontested divorces are when both the spouses agree on the main terms of the divorce. This includes child custody and support. Typically, this involves a settlement and division of marital estates and debts. The judge will approve the final divorce decree after the divorce is finalized. 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