How Much Does a Divorce Cost in Arizona?

The dissolution of a marriage is never an easy decision; however, sometimes, it is the only option. If you are preparing to get a divorce in Arizona, you likely want answers to your most pressing questions. The most commonly asked question regarding the dissolution of marriage is, “How much does a divorce cost in Arizona?”

Unfortunately, it’s one of the most challenging questions to answer since an array of factors can make your divorce cost more or less. If you have additional questions or want to know more about the specifics of your divorce case, it is always best to consult a divorce legal specialist. 

The Law Office of Cosmas Onyia offers comprehensive legal services and legal counsel in family law matters, including divorce cases. This article will provide you with valuable information on the costs associated with getting a divorce in Arizona and how they may vary. 

Understanding Filing Fees for the Divorce Process in Arizona

Part of your divorce cost in Arizona will be the filing fees. These filing fees will vary depending on which county you file in. For most of the counties, it is a flat fee. In Maricopa County, for example, the filing fee is $349 for the dissolution of marriage. Some counties have separate filing fees, like Yuma County, which changes the rate based on whether you are filing for divorce with children or without children. 

Beyond these fees, there are additional costs that you must factor in during the divorce process. These include attorney fees, monthly child support, monthly spousal maintenance, property and debt division, and many more. The cost of divorce in Arizona depends on whether there is an agreement in the divorce or not. Contested divorces, where couples cannot agree on certain aspects of their divorce, will involve even more costs and legal fees. These can include child custody evaluations, depositions, divorce mediation, and many others. 

Contested Divorce vs Uncontested Divorce

An uncontested divorce is the most amicable way to end a marital union. This would mean that you’d avoid going to trial if you can both agree, and it will also result in lower costs for your divorce. You can file your petition at the court for an average divorce cost in Arizona around $620 before any lawyer fees.

If both parties amicably divorce, only court fees need to be paid. If legal assistance is required, legal fees will be charged at hourly rates. It may benefit you to hire a divorce mediator and have legal counsel to ensure the process goes as smoothly as possible. Mediation is usually charged by the hour like divorce attorney fees. 

Even if you need to pay attorney’s fees, the uncontested divorce cost is much cheaper because it involves less litigation, resulting in fewer legal fees. However, not every couple can manage an uncontested divorce. When neither of the parties agrees, it becomes a contested divorce, where the cost is much higher than the uncontested divorce cost.

You will need a divorce attorney to help you navigate the process, particularly in court. Expect it to cost thousands more than if you and your spouse agree on the terms of this legal matter. The legal fees will go far beyond the initial filing fee. They will include a discovery process as well as expert fees to determine how to split the marital assets and debts fairly, not to mention deal with child custody and child support.

Other Costs to Consider for Divorce in Arizona

In addition to divorce lawyer costs and whether or not one spouse agrees with the other, your divorce can become even more costly based on different factors. When getting a divorce in Arizona, you must be prepared for these costs regardless. A certified legal document preparer will be beneficial whether you both agree on your divorce case or not.

It can help to have an initial consultation with an experienced divorce lawyer who can examine the unique factors in your situation and help you get a better idea of what to expect. If you have many assets, you may need to pay spousal maintenance to your spouse and give the other party money to support themselves. 

You may also need full-scope representation if issues are agreeing to parenting time. A parent information program class may be ordered for each spouse during the legal decision-making. In short, if you can avoid court by agreeing with your spouse, you can pay less. However, if one party cannot agree to this petition in Arizona, then it is ideal to hire a lawyer who can represent your best interests.

Ways to Reduce Divorce Costs in Arizona

Divorce proceedings can be incredibly costly, and they become more extensive when neither party can form a divorce agreement. If you want to reduce the total cost of your divorce costs, it is more beneficial to find a way to agree to the terms peacefully and cooperatively.

Collaborative divorce, uncontested, or divorces that involve mediation can help you save money. Overall, divorce proceedings will cost you legal document preparation, attorney fees, and other costs. When a divorcing couple can have a collaborative divorce, it will benefit each spouse.

Why It’s Important to Hire an Arizona Divorce Attorney

While it is undoubtedly true that attorneys will be the most considerable cost to pay in an Arizona divorce, their retainer fee or service fee is going to be worth the price. A complicated or contentious divorce is difficult enough once you go beyond the consent decree. You need an attorney who will be there for you in court to help you navigate Arizona law and work towards the best possible outcome, allowing you to move forward with your life.

No one ever gets married with the intent of winding up in court arguing about their assets, debts, or children. With the help of an attorney, you will have someone preparing you for court and getting all of the relevant documents in order.

Attorneys also speak with your argumentative spouse, meaning you don’t have to talk to them directly and, therefore, avoid having more arguments with them. You’ll find that an attorney is worth the cost because they will help protect your assets and fight for what is fair.

Hiring an Attorney for Divorce in Arizona

When it comes to hiring an attorney in Arizona, the costs will vary based on the terms of your contract. If you choose a family attorney for full representation, your lawyer will handle everything, giving you complete peace of mind and much less stress.

Partial representation may be more ideal if you only have a few significant issues, such as trying to negotiate alimony or child support. If you only have a few questions and don’t have children together, you may only need to have a consultation with a lawyer to find your footing.

Whether you and your soon-to-be-ex-spouse can agree or not, it can be beneficial to discuss your divorce with an attorney who can provide greater insight. In Arizona, contact the Law Office of Cosmas Onyia to discuss your divorce and find out more about how the factors in your case may impact the overall cost.