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? These are the main pros 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.
Cost of a Divorce
Although the costs of a divorce is more expensive than one that is uncontested, they are still affordable. Although an uncontested divorce can be more straightforward, it is more expensive to file for a court 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.
Mediated divorce is best for a happy marriage where neither side is trying to hide anything. A couple can reach a settlement agreement through mediation before filing 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. The costs of a contested divorcing can reach $10,000. This includes attorney fees, court costs and any other miscellaneous costs. However, an attorney can help protect your rights and reduce the costs of divorce proceedings. A study showed that 11% paid $100 per hour for an attorney, and 20% paid $400.
Will A Divorce Take A Long Time To Settle?
There are two types of divorce: contested and uncontested. Although both are legal, uncontested divorces tend to be less expensive. Uncontested divorces aren't 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. An attorney or mediator can be hired if your spouse and you are not able to reach an agreement on any key issues. In some cases, you might even be able get divorce without the assistance of a lawyer.
Uncontested divorces are usually completed in six weeks if you and your spouse can agree on everything. The timeframe for divorce can vary depending on the circumstances. Some divorces are simple and take less than six months. Some cases take several months to settle. It could take longer if your spouse is slow to complete paperwork. In both cases, a lawyer may be necessary.
The length of the divorce process is the most noticeable difference between contested and unsuspected. The whole process can take months, if not years, if one of the parties refuses to compromise. 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.
Uncontested vs Contested Divorce: What are the Requirements?
The laws in your state will determine whether or not you need to hire a lawyer for contested v or uncontested divorce. In states that require a lawyer to file for divorce, uncontested divorces are easier to obtain. Uncontested divorces often involve less expense and stress, and can help to maintain the relationship between the couples. Common reasons to hire a lawyer when contested divorcing are child custody and property division.
Before you decide whether to retain a lawyer for your divorce, make sure that you are familiar with the laws. A final hearing is required in many states before a divorce can become final. The divorce can be finalized if the parties reach an agreement on the settlement. A judge will sign the judgment in cases that do not require a final court hearing. Some states require a waiting time before a divorce can proceed.
Uncontested divorces are only possible with the cooperation of both spouses. 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. The judge will then review the agreement and approve final divorce decrees. The uncontested divorce is relatively affordable. In some states, a lawyer might cost as little as 200 dollars.
For more information on Arizona Divorce Law, or help with a pending divorce case, visit one of the sites below