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?
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. Find out if you need a lawyer for your situation. Don't forget about the pros and cons of each. We'll also discuss the differences between contested and uncontested divorces.
How Much Will A Divorce Cost?
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. 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.
If your marriage is amicable and neither party is trying to hide something, a mediated divorce will be the least expensive option. Mediation can help a couple reach a settlement agreement before filing for a divorce. Some states require that a divorce be mediated before it is filed. In certain cases, judges may require mediation. It is important to realize that mediation may not work in all cases.
While both contested and uncontested divorces are expensive, uncontested divorces are the cheapest. 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 revealed that 11% of respondents paid $100 per hour or more for an attorney while 20% paid $400 or higher.
How Long Does A Divorce Take?
When you're thinking about getting divorced, you're probably wondering about the differences between a contested and an uncontested divorce. While both divorces are legal, the former is much less expensive. However, uncontested divorces are not 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 disagree on any significant issues, you should hire the services of an attorney. In some cases, you might even be able get divorce without the assistance of a lawyer.
Uncontested divorces usually last six weeks, if both you and your spouse are in agreement on everything. However, each divorce is different and the timeframes can vary. Some divorces are simple and take less than six months. Some cases take several months to settle. It can take even longer if your spouse has been slow in returning paperwork. In these cases, it may be necessary to hire a lawyer.
The length of the divorce process is the most noticeable difference between contested and unsuspected. When one party refuses to negotiate, the entire process can take months or even years. A uncontested divorce is much easier because no one is disputing anything. This type of divorce typically involves a lot more stress, which means that both parties have to spend more time and money on the divorce.
Uncontested vs Contested Divorce: What are the Requirements?
It depends on the laws of your state as to whether you need a lawyer for uncontested or contested divorce. Uncontested divorces can be obtained in those states that require you to hire a lawyer to file your divorce papers. Uncontested divorces often involve less expense and stress, and can help to maintain the relationship between the couples. Common reasons to hire a lawyer when contested divorcing are child custody and property division.
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 divorce can be final. Once the parties have reached an agreement, the divorce can be finalized. If there is no final hearing required, a judge can sign the judgment. Some states require that a waiting period be allowed before a divorce can take place.
Uncontested divorces are only possible with the cooperation of both spouses. An uncontested divorce is when both spouses reach an agreement on the terms of the divorce. 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 of the uncontested divorce is low. A lawyer can cost as low as $200 in many states.
For more information on Arizona Divorce Law, or help with a pending divorce case, visit one of the sites below