What is the best way to get a lawyer to represent you in a contested or uncontested divorce?
Do You Need a Lawyer for a Contested or Uncontested Arizona Divorce?
Many people wonder whether hiring a lawyer in a contested versus an uncontested divorce will save them time and money. But is this really necessary? These are the main pros of both. To determine whether hiring a legal professional is appropriate for your case, read on. Also, don't forget the pros and cons. We'll also discuss the differences between contested and uncontested divorces.
How Much Will A Divorce Cost?
The costs of a contested versus uncontested divorce vary greatly, but the same principles apply to both. 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. There are many issues that can be litigated during a trial. They include child support, maintenance, pensions and property division. The cost of these items can also increase the couple's final 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 divorce proceedings are mediated before the filing deadline. In some cases, judges may require mediation. It is important to realize that mediation may not work in all cases.
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. An attorney can be costly, but it can help you protect your rights. One study found 11% paid $100 or more per an hour to have an attorney represent them, while 20% paid $400.
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. Although both are legal, uncontested divorces tend to be less expensive. Uncontested divorces aren't 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. In some cases, you might even be able get divorce without the assistance of a lawyer.
An uncontested divorce is usually only six weeks long if your spouse and you agree on everything. Each divorce is unique, so time frames can vary greatly. Some divorces are quick and simple, taking less than six weeks. Some divorces can take several months to complete. It might take longer if your spouse takes too long to return paperwork. In these cases, it may be necessary to hire a lawyer.
Uncontested and contested divorces are distinguished by the length of the proceedings. If one party refuses negotiation, the whole process could take months or even years. A uncontested divorce is much easier because no one is disputing anything. This type of divorce is more stressful and requires both the parties to invest more time and money.
For Contested and Uncontested Divorces, You May Need to Have a Lawyer
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. There is often less stress and expense associated with uncontested divorces, and they tend to preserve the relationship between the parties. 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. Most states require that a final hearing be held before a divorcing party can legally proceed. 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. Usually, this involves a settlement agreement and the division of marital assets 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 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