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 wonder whether hiring a lawyer in a contested versus an uncontested divorce will save them time and money. But is it really necessary to hire a lawyer in a contested versus an uncontested divorce? These are the main benefits and drawbacks of each. To determine whether hiring a legal professional is appropriate for your case, read on. 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?
The costs of a contested versus uncontested divorce vary greatly, but the same principles apply to both. Uncontested divorces are easier to handle, but it's more costly to file for trial. Attorney fees and court fees are usually the same for each, but a contested divorce can incur additional expenses. 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 a divorce be mediated before it is filed. In certain cases, judges may require mediation. However, you should be aware that mediation may not be the best option for every situation.
Although both contested or uncontested divorces can be costly, uncontested are typically the most expensive. However, a contested marriage can cost over $10,000. These costs include attorney fees, court expenses, and miscellaneous expenses. Hiring an attorney can also add significant costs to your divorce, although an attorney can protect your rights. One study found that 11% of respondents paid an attorney $100 or more per hour, while 20% paid $400 or more.
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. Although both are legal, the uncontested divorce is less costly. Uncontested divorces might not be right for everyone. Even if you have agreed to file for divorce, that doesn't mean it will be an easy process. If you and/or your spouse can't agree on any major issues, you will need to hire an attorney or mediator. In some cases, you may even be able to get the divorce without 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 take only six weeks and are relatively quick. Others, however, require several months to resolve. It could take longer if your spouse is slow to complete paperwork. In any case, a lawyer may prove necessary.
The biggest difference between uncontested and litigated divorces is how long it takes. When one party refuses to negotiate, the entire process can take months or even years. On the other hand, an uncontested divorce can go through relatively quickly, because no one is disputing anything. 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.
When determining whether to hire a lawyer, you should first understand the laws regarding divorce. Many states require a final hearing before a divorce can be 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 that a waiting period be allowed before a divorce can take place.
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. Most often, this includes a settlement agreement and division of marital debts and assets. The judge will approve the final divorce decree after the divorce is finalized. The uncontested divorce is relatively affordable. In many states, a lawyer may cost as little as two hundred dollars.
For more information on Arizona Divorce Law, or help with a pending divorce case, visit one of the sites below