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?
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? Here are the main pros and cons of both. Learn more to determine if a lawyer is right for you. Don't forget about the pros and cons of each. We'll also be discussing the differences between contested or uncontested divorces.
Divorce Cost
The costs of a contested versus uncontested divorce vary greatly, but the same principles apply to both. A contested divorce is less complicated, but it is more expensive to have a trial. 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.
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 divorces to be mediated before filing. Judges can also require mediation in some cases. It is important to realize that mediation may not work in all cases.
Although both contested or uncontested divorces can be costly, uncontested are typically the most expensive. The costs of a contested divorcing can reach $10,000. This includes attorney fees, court costs and any other miscellaneous costs. While an attorney is not required to represent you, it can increase the cost of your divorce. One study revealed that 11% of respondents paid $100 per hour or more for an attorney while 20% paid $400 or higher.
Will A Divorce Take A Long Time To Settle?
When you're thinking about getting divorced, you're probably wondering about the differences between a contested and an uncontested divorce. Although both are legal, the uncontested divorce is less costly. Uncontested divorces might not be right for everyone. It doesn't necessarily mean that a divorce will be easy even if your spouse has agreed to file. 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 may even be able to get the divorce without a lawyer.
An uncontested divorce is usually only six weeks long if your spouse and you agree on everything. The timeframe for divorce can vary depending on the circumstances. Some divorces take only six weeks and are relatively quick. Some cases take several months to settle. It could take longer if your spouse is slow to complete paperwork. 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 negotiations, the whole process can take many months or even years. A uncontested divorce is much easier 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.
Uncontested vs Contested Divorce: What are the Requirements?
You should choose whether you hire a lawyer to file for contested v divorce or uncontested divorce depending on the state's laws. In states that require a lawyer to file for divorce, uncontested divorces are easier to obtain. Uncontested divorces are less stressful and more affordable, and tend to preserve the relationships between the spouses. Property division and child custody are the most common reasons for hiring a lawyer in contested divorce cases.
Before you decide whether you want to hire a lawyer, it is important that your understanding of the laws regarding divorce be clear. Many states require a final hearing before a divorce can be final. The divorce can be finalized if the parties reach an agreement on the settlement. If there is no final hearing required, a judge can sign the judgment. Some states require a waiting period before a divorce can be finalized.
An uncontested divorce requires cooperation from both sides. Both parties must agree to the major terms of an uncontested divorcement, including child custody, support, and maintenance. Most often, this includes a settlement agreement and division of marital debts and assets. The final divorce decree will be approved by the judge after the agreement is reviewed and approved by the judge. Uncontested divorces are relatively inexpensive. In many states, a lawyer may cost as little as two hundred dollars.
For more information on Arizona Divorce Law, or help with a pending divorce case, visit one of the sites below