What is the best way to get a lawyer to represent you in a contested or uncontested divorce?
What is the best way to get a lawyer to represent you in a contested or uncontested divorce?
Many people are unsure if hiring a lawyer to represent them in a contested or uncontested divorce will help save time and money. But, is it really necessary? Here are the main pros and cons of both. Read on to decide whether hiring a lawyer is necessary in your particular situation. Check out the pros and con of each. We will also talk about the differences between 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. Uncontested divorces are easier to handle, but it's more costly to file for trial. Although attorney fees and court fees are typically the same for both parties, a contested separation can result in additional costs. Child support, maintenance of property, pensions, and property division can be contested in a trial, and the costs of these can increase a couple's total 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 divorces be mediate before filing, and judges can require mediation in specific cases. However, you should be aware that mediation may not be the best option for every situation.
Although both uncontested and contested divorces cost more, uncontested divorces will be less expensive. However, the costs of a contested divorce can exceed $10,000, including attorney fees, court costs, and other miscellaneous expenses. While an attorney is not required to represent you, it can increase the cost of your divorce. 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?
There are two types of divorce: contested and uncontested. Although both are legal, uncontested divorces tend to be less expensive. Uncontested divorces might not be right 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 your spouse disagree on any significant issues, you should hire the services of an attorney. Sometimes, you might be able to obtain divorce without the need for a lawyer.
A uncontested divorce can usually take six weeks if the spouse agrees 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 may take longer if your spouse is slow in returning paperwork. A lawyer might be required in either case.
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. However, uncontested divorces are much more straightforward because no one disputes anything. This type divorce usually involves more stress which leads to both parties spending more time and money.
Am I Required to Hire a Lawyer for a Uncontested or Contested divorce?
Whether you should hire a lawyer for contested v and uncontested divorce depends on your state's specific 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. 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.
The cooperation of both the parties is required for uncontested divorces. Both the parties can agree on the key terms of an uncontested divorcement, including child custody rights and support. Usually, this involves a settlement agreement and the division of marital assets and debts. The judge will then review the agreement and approve final divorce decrees. The cost for an uncontested divorce will be low. 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