Are you unsure if you should hire a lawyer in Contested or Uncontested Divorce cases?

Many people wonder if they will be able to save time and money by hiring a lawyer in a contested versus uncontested divorce. But, do they really need to? Here are the main advantages and disadvantages 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'll also cover the differences in uncontested and contested divorces.

Cost of a Divorce

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. 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.

Mediated divorce is best for couples who are happy in their marriage and don't want to be accused of anything. A couple can reach a settlement agreement through mediation before filing for divorce. Some states require divorces to be mediated before filing. Judges can also require mediation in some cases. It is important to realize that mediation may not work in all cases.

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. 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.

How Long Does A Divorce Take to Settle?

It is possible to be confused about the differences between uncontested and contested divorces if you are considering getting divorced. Both divorces are legal but the first is cheaper. However, uncontested divorces are not 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 might even be able get divorce without the assistance of a lawyer.

If you and your spouse agree on everything, an uncontested divorce will generally take about six weeks. Each divorce is unique, so time frames can vary greatly. Some divorces can be completed in less than six weeks. Others can take months to resolve. If your spouse is slow to return paperwork, it could take much longer. In these cases, it may be necessary to hire a lawyer.

The biggest difference between uncontested and litigated divorces is how long it takes. If one party refuses negotiations, the whole process can take many months or even years. An uncontested divorce, on the other hand can be done quickly as no one is disputing anything. This type is often more stressful, so both sides will have to spend more time and more money.

Am I Required to Hire a Lawyer for a Uncontested or Contested divorce?

Your state's specific laws will dictate whether you need to hire a legal representative for contested vs uncontested divorce. Uncontested divorces are less common in states that require lawyers to file for divorce. Uncontested divorces can be less expensive and stressful than contested ones. They also tend to maintain the relationship between the parents. Common reasons to hire a lawyer when contested divorcing are child custody and property division.

Before you can decide whether to hire an attorney, it is important to understand the laws governing divorce. Many states require a final hearing before a separation can be made final. If the parties agree to the settlement, then the divorce can be finalized. If there is no final hearing required, a judge can sign the judgment. Some states require a waiting period before a divorce can be 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. After the divorce is final, the judge will review the agreement and approve the final divorce decree. The uncontested divorce is relatively affordable. 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

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