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 wonder if it is worth hiring a lawyer for a contested rather than an uncontested divorcement. But is it really necessary to hire a lawyer in a contested versus an uncontested divorce? These are the main pros of both. Learn more to determine if a lawyer is right for you. You should also consider the other benefits and drawbacks of each. We'll also discuss the differences between contested and uncontested divorces.
Cost of a Divorce
Although the costs of a divorce is more expensive than one that is uncontested, they are still affordable. Although an uncontested divorce can be more straightforward, it is more expensive to file for a court hearing. The fees for attorney and court are the same. However, contested divorces can be more costly. You can have a trial to dispute child support, maintenance and pensions or property division. These can add to the 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. Mediation can be used to help couples reach a compromise agreement before filing for divorce. Some states require that divorce proceedings are mediated before the filing deadline. In some cases, judges may require mediation. 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. However, the costs of a contested divorce can exceed $10,000, including attorney fees, court costs, and other miscellaneous expenses. However, an attorney can help protect your rights and reduce the costs of divorce proceedings. A study showed that 11% paid $100 per hour for an attorney, and 20% paid $400.
Will A Divorce Take A Long Time To Settle?
You may be wondering what the difference is between a contested or uncontested divorce when you think about getting divorcéed. Although both are legal, uncontested divorces tend to be less expensive. Uncontested divorces may not be 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. If you and your spouse cannot agree on any important issues, you'll need to engage the services of an attorney or a mediator. You may be able even to divorce your spouse without the help of a lawyer in some cases.
An uncontested divorce is usually only six weeks long if your spouse and you agree on everything. However, each divorce is different and the timeframes can vary. Some divorces are quick and simple, taking less than six weeks. Others, however, require several months to resolve. It can take even longer if your spouse has been slow in returning paperwork. In either case, a lawyer may be necessary.
The main difference between uncontested and contested divorces is their length. If one party refuses negotiation, the whole process could take months or even years. Uncontested divorces can be completed quickly because there is no dispute. This type of divorce is more stressful and requires both the parties to invest more time and money.
Am I Required to Hire a Lawyer for a Uncontested or Contested divorce?
The laws in your state will determine whether or not you need to hire a lawyer for contested v or uncontested divorce. Uncontested divorces can be obtained in those states that require you to hire a lawyer to file your divorce papers. Uncontested divorces are less stressful and more affordable, and tend to preserve the relationships between the spouses. The most common reasons to hire a lawyer for contested divorces are property division and child custody.
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 separation can be made final. The divorce can be finalized if the parties reach an agreement on the settlement. In states that do not require a final hearing, a judge will sign the judgment. Some states require that there be a waiting period before a divorce is finalized.
An uncontested divorce requires cooperation from both sides. In an uncontested divorce, both parties agree on the major terms of the divorce, including child custody and support. This usually involves a settlement agreement, the division of marital assets, 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