Not every marriage ends with a fairy-tale conclusion, as movies often portray. Divorce is a common reality, affecting 2.4 people per 1,000 and resulting in about 673,000 divorces each year. If you’re contemplating divorce, remember you’re not alone. Ending your marriage is a major life event, and the choices you make now will have a significant impact on both your present and future. By taking proactive steps and seeking guidance from the experienced lawyers at Shaffer Family Law, you can navigate this challenging period more effectively and set yourself up for a more secure and positive future. To ensure a smoother process, consider these essential steps to help manage your transition successfully.
Before filing for divorce in Arizona, follow these five essential steps:
- Are You Sure Divorce Is the Right Choice? Before filing, it’s crucial to deeply evaluate whether divorce is truly the best path forward. Have you explored all possible solutions, such as counseling, mediation, or therapy, to address and resolve issues in your marriage? Take the time to reflect and ensure you’re making an informed and deliberate decision.
- Assess Whether You Need a Lawyer. Consider whether hiring a lawyer is necessary for your situation. This advice goes beyond just our role as family law attorneys; handling complex issues such as child custody, property division, and debt can profoundly affect your life. To avoid potentially costly mistakes and ensure your interests are protected, it’s crucial to seek professional legal assistance.
- Familiarize Yourself with Arizona Divorce Laws. Divorce regulations vary by state and can be quite complex, so it’s essential to know Arizona’s specific requirements. For instance, you or your spouse must have been a resident of Arizona for at least 90 days before filing for divorce. You will also need to state the grounds for divorce. Fortunately, Arizona provides a no-fault divorce option, allowing either spouse to claim that the marriage has reached a point of no reconciliation. This approach streamlines the process and helps both parties move forward with fewer legal complications.
- Choose the type of divorce that fits your situation. Divorces are categorized as either contested or uncontested. A contested divorce arises when one party resists the divorce or when there are unresolved issues that need court resolution. On the other hand, if you and your spouse can agree on the terms of your separation without court involvement, an uncontested divorce may be more suitable. Uncontested divorces typically save both time and money by reducing court time and legal fees.
- Assess your situation. Going through a divorce is a big change, moving from being married to being single. There will be difficulties as well as chances for new beginnings. Financially, you might want to separate your money from your spouse’s, and this might involve taking steps to protect your credit and handling any joint accounts. You’ll also need to work out living arrangements with your soon-to-be ex-spouse, especially if you have children. Planning for these changes will help you navigate this transition more effectively. Top of Form
Navigating the Arizona Divorce Process: How to Get the Help You Need
Once you decide to pursue a divorce, it’s crucial to grasp the process and the decisions you’ll need to make. Divorce can be one of the most challenging experiences of your life, and having a skilled and compassionate lawyer is essential. At Shaffer Family Law, our attorneys are dedicated to guiding you through every step of the divorce process, protecting your rights, and helping you and your family move toward a brighter future. Contact us today at (480) 470-3030 to schedule a consultation and take the first step toward a new chapter in your life.
Sources: https://www.forbes.com/advisor/legal/divorce/divorce-checklist/
https://www.forbes.com/advisor/legal/divorce/arizona-divorce/
https://www.divorcenet.com/resources/filing-for-divorce/arizona.htm
https://www.brides.com/things-to-do-before-you-file-for-a-divorce-1103072
https://www.cdc.gov/nchs/fastats/marriage-divorce.htm