What is the best way to get a lawyer to represent you in a contested or uncontested divorce?
Are you unsure if you should hire a lawyer in Contested or Uncontested Divorce cases?
Many people are unsure if hiring a lawyer to represent them in a contested or uncontested divorce will help save time and money. Is it really necessary? Here are the main advantages and disadvantages of each. You can decide if hiring a lawyer in your specific situation by reading the following. Don't forget about the pros and cons of each. We'll also cover the differences in uncontested and contested divorces.
How Much Will A Divorce Cost?
Although the costs for a contested or uncontested divorce can vary, the same principles apply to them both. 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. The costs of child support, maintenance of properties, pensions, and property distribution can all be litigated in court. This can affect a couple’s overall divorce settlement.
A mediated divorce is the best option if your marriage is peaceful and you are not trying to hide 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. 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. However, a contested separation can cost more than $10,000. That includes attorney fees, court costs, as well as other expenses. However, an attorney can help protect your rights and reduce the costs of divorce proceedings. One study found that 11% spent $100 or more an hour on an attorney and 20% paid $400.
How Long Does A Divorce Take?
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 divorces are legal, the former is much less expensive. Uncontested divorces may not be 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. If you and/or your spouse can't agree on any major issues, you will need to hire an attorney or mediator. Sometimes, you might be able to obtain divorce without the need for a lawyer.
Uncontested divorces usually last six weeks, if both you and your spouse are in agreement on everything. Of course, every divorce is different, so the timeframe can vary considerably. Some divorces are simple and take less than six months. Others can take months to resolve. It might take longer if your spouse takes too long to return paperwork. In both cases, a lawyer may be necessary.
The biggest difference between uncontested and litigated divorces is how long it takes. The entire process can be prolonged if one side refuses to negotiate. 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.
Is A Lawyer Required for Contested or Uncontested Divorce
You should choose whether you hire a lawyer to file for contested v divorce or uncontested divorce depending on the state's laws. Uncontested divorces can be obtained in those states that require you to hire a lawyer to file your divorce papers. Uncontested divorces can be less expensive and stressful than contested ones. They also tend to maintain the relationship between the parents. The most common reasons to hire a lawyer for contested divorces are property division and child custody.
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. If there is no final hearing required, a judge can sign the judgment. Some states require that there be a waiting period before a divorce is finalized.
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. 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. The cost of the uncontested divorce is low. In many states, a divorce lawyer costs as little as $200.
For more information on Arizona Divorce Law, or help with a pending divorce case, visit one of the sites below