What is the best way to get a lawyer to represent you in a contested or uncontested 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? These are the main pros of both. Find out if you need a lawyer for your situation. Also, don't forget the pros and cons. We'll also be discussing the differences between contested or uncontested divorces.
Divorce Cost
While the costs of a contested and uncontested divorce are different, they both have similar costs. Although an uncontested divorce can be more straightforward, it is more expensive to file for a court hearing. The attorney fees and court fee are usually the same. However, a divorce that is contested can lead to additional costs. A trial can resolve disputes about child support, property division, maintenance of property, pensions, or child support. These costs can lead to a greater 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.
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. Although an attorney may be able to protect your rights, hiring an attorney can add considerable costs to your divorce proceedings. One study found that 11% spent $100 or more an hour on an attorney and 20% paid $400.
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. However, uncontested divorces are not for everyone. It doesn't necessarily mean that a divorce will be easy even if your spouse has agreed to file. You will need an attorney or mediator if you and your spouse are unable to agree on important issues. In some cases, you may even be able to get the divorce without a lawyer.
A uncontested divorce can usually take six weeks if the spouse agrees on everything. Each divorce is unique, so time frames can vary greatly. Some divorces take only six weeks and are relatively quick. Some cases take several months to settle. It can take even longer if your spouse has been slow in returning paperwork. In any case, a lawyer may prove necessary.
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 divorce usually involves more stress which leads to both parties spending more time and money.
What Is The Requirement to Hire a Lawyer for Contested vs Uncontested Divorce?
Your state's specific laws will dictate whether you need to hire a legal representative for contested vs uncontested divorce. In states that require a lawyer to file for divorce, uncontested divorces are 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.
Before you decide whether to retain a lawyer for your divorce, make sure that you are familiar with the laws. 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 judgments in states that don't require a final hearing. Some states require a waiting phase before a divorce decree can be finalized.
An uncontested divorce requires cooperation from both sides. Both the parties can agree on the key terms of an uncontested divorcement, including child custody rights and support. Usually, this will involve a settlement agreement as well as the division and payment of marital property and debts. The judge will then review the agreement and approve final divorce decrees. Uncontested divorces are relatively inexpensive. 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