Should You Hire a Lawyer for a Contested Vs Uncontested Arizona Divorce?
Are you unsure if you should hire a lawyer in Contested or Uncontested Divorce cases?
Many people wonder if they will be able to save time and money by hiring a lawyer in a contested versus uncontested divorce. But is it really necessary to hire a lawyer in a contested versus an uncontested divorce? These are the main pros of both. 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.
Divorce Cost
Although the costs for a contested or uncontested divorce can vary, the same principles apply to them both. Although an uncontested divorce can be more straightforward, it is more expensive to file for a court hearing. While attorney fees and court costs are generally the same, a contested divorce may incur additional expenses. Child support, maintenance of property, pensions, and property division can be contested in a trial, and the costs of these can increase a couple's total divorce settlement.
Mediated divorce is affordable if the couple is able to reach an amicable agreement and there is no attempt to conceal anything. A couple can reach a settlement agreement through mediation before filing for 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.
Although both contested or uncontested divorces can be costly, uncontested are typically the most expensive. 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 11% paid $100 or more per an hour to have an attorney represent them, while 20% paid $400.
Time Required For A Divorce
There are two types of divorce: contested and uncontested. While both divorces are legal, the former is much less expensive. Uncontested divorces aren't for everyone. Although you have reached an agreement to file for divorce, it doesn't guarantee that the process will be straightforward. If you and your spouse disagree on any significant issues, you should hire the services of an attorney. In some cases, you might even be able get divorce without the assistance of a lawyer.
If you and your spouse agree on everything, an uncontested divorce will generally take about six weeks. Every divorce is different so the timeline can vary. Some divorces are easy and quick, lasting less than six week. Some cases take several months to settle. It can take even longer if your spouse has been slow in returning paperwork. In either case, a lawyer may be necessary.
The length of the divorce process is the most noticeable difference between contested and unsuspected. The entire process can be prolonged if one side refuses to negotiate. On the other hand, an uncontested divorce can go through relatively quickly, because no one is disputing anything. This type divorce usually involves more stress which leads to both parties spending more time and money.
For Contested and Uncontested Divorces, You May Need to Have a Lawyer
The laws in your state will determine whether or not you need to hire a lawyer for contested v or uncontested divorce. Uncontested divorces are more common in states that require the use of a lawyer for filing for divorce. Uncontested divorces tend to be less costly and involve less stress. Common reasons to hire a lawyer when contested divorcing are child custody and property division.
When determining whether to hire a lawyer, you should first understand the laws regarding divorce. Many states require a final hearing before a separation can be made final. If both parties are happy with the settlement, the divorce proceedings can be finalized. A judge will sign the judgment in cases that do not require a final court hearing. Some states require that there be a waiting period before a divorce is finalized.
The cooperation of both the parties is required for uncontested divorces. Both parties must agree to the major terms of an uncontested divorcement, including child custody, support, and maintenance. Usually, this involves a settlement agreement and the division of marital assets and debts. The final divorce decree will be approved by the judge after the agreement is reviewed and approved by the judge. The uncontested divorce is relatively affordable. 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