Should You Hire a Lawyer for a Contested Vs Uncontested Arizona Divorce?
Should You Hire a Lawyer for a Contested Vs Uncontested Arizona Divorce?
Many people wonder if they will be able to save time and money by hiring a lawyer in a contested versus uncontested divorce. Is it really necessary? Here are the main advantages and disadvantages of each. To determine whether hiring a legal professional is appropriate for your case, read on. 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 of a divorce is more expensive than one that is uncontested, they are still affordable. An uncontested divorce is simpler to finalize, but it can cost more to file for a hearing. The attorney fees and court fee are usually the same. However, a divorce that is contested can lead to additional costs. 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. Mediating can help you and your spouse reach a mutually beneficial settlement agreement before you file for divorce. Some states require divorces to be mediated before filing. Judges can also require mediation in some cases. Mediation may not be the best solution for every case.
Although both uncontested and contested divorces cost more, uncontested divorces will be less expensive. However, a contested separation can cost more than $10,000. That includes attorney fees, court costs, as well as other expenses. While an attorney is not required to represent you, it can increase the cost of your divorce. One study found that 11% of respondents paid an attorney $100 or more per hour, while 20% paid $400 or more.
Will A Divorce Take A Long Time To Settle?
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 might not be right for everyone. Although you have reached an agreement to file for divorce, it doesn't guarantee that the process will be straightforward. You will need an attorney or mediator if you and your spouse are unable to agree on important issues. In some cases, you might even be able get divorce without the assistance of a lawyer.
Uncontested divorces usually last six weeks, if both you and your spouse are in agreement on everything. 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. If your spouse is slow to return paperwork, it could take much longer. In any case, a lawyer may prove necessary.
Uncontested and contested divorces are distinguished by the length of the proceedings. When one party refuses to negotiate, the entire process can take months or even years. Uncontested divorces can be completed quickly because there is no dispute. 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?
Your state's specific laws will dictate whether you need to hire a legal representative for contested vs uncontested divorce. Uncontested divorces in states that require a divorce lawyer are much easier to obtain. Uncontested divorces can be less expensive and stressful than contested ones. They also tend to maintain the relationship between the parents. Most people hire a lawyer to help them with contested divorces.
It is essential that you understand the laws surrounding divorce before you make a decision about whether or not to hire a legal representative. In many states, a final hearing must be held before a divorce is 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 period before a divorce can be finalized.
An uncontested divorce requires cooperation from both sides. An uncontested divorce is when both spouses reach an agreement on the terms of the divorce. Most often, this includes a settlement agreement and division of marital debts and assets. After the final divorce decree is approved, the judge will read the agreement and sign it. 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