There are a few ways for an uncontested divorce to take place in Arizona. In what’s known as a “true default,” one spouse files a petition for divorce, and the other simply does not file a response within the allotted time frame. If you are a resident of Arizona and served in the state with the Petition, you have 20 days to file your response. If you reside out of state, you have 30 days to file your response. If a person fails to file their response, the court is likely to grant everything requested in the petition, as the spouse who failed to respond has given up his or her right to participate in the divorce case.
Many people are uncomfortable with relinquishing control of their divorce to that extent, so there are other options for an uncontested Arizona divorce. One party may still elect not to respond to the petition but may create with their spouse a written and notarized settlement agreement about the terms of the divorce. Another option is for the respondent to file a response, but still work out an agreement with the petitioner. Settlement agreements typically include all matters at issue in the divorce proceeding such as child custody, visitation, and support, spousal maintenance, division of property, and other issues important to the parties.
Choosing Uncontested Divorce
For many Arizona couples, an uncontested divorce offers a less stressful and less expensive way to end their marriage than fighting in court. An uncontested divorce is typically also easier on the couple’s children. At Shaffer Family Law, we offer all of the support and guidance necessary for parties desiring to obtain an uncontested divorce.
In an uncontested Arizona divorce, it’s critically important to make sure that you understand every word and term of a proposed settlement agreement before you sign it. We are experienced family law attorneys who make sure your settlement agreement encompasses every issue that is important to you and that you fully understand what you are consenting to. A settlement agreement is no less than the privately-created law of your divorce.
How We Help With Your Arizona Uncontested Divorce
Even when you and your spouse are able to agree on the terms of your divorce, divorce can be a confusing and challenging time. At Shaffer Family Law, we help you evaluate your needs and goals for the divorce and beyond. We provide you with the information you need in order to decide whether an uncontested divorce is the right choice for you, and if so, what level of involvement you want to have. Equally important, we offer the responsiveness and support you need to get through the process.
When we understand your overall situation, we can help to either craft a settlement agreement that will meet your family’s needs or review a proposed agreement to determine whether it’s acceptable. With Arizona divorce settlement agreements, details are vitally important. We are meticulous in our preparation and review of settlement agreements, because we know your future, and that of your family, depends on it.
We also understand that almost all divorce clients are concerned about the bottom line—how much their divorce will , and what the financial outcome of the divorce will be. Our experience with Arizona law and divorce negotiations allows us to work efficiently while still protecting your interests. Our focus is on resolving your divorce as quickly and as favorably as possible.
Our extensive experience with uncontested Arizona divorces helps us give you the best guidance as to your options and the likely outcomes of your choices, but control over the decisions in your divorce remain in your hands.
Uncontested Divorce Representation in the Valley and the Surrounding Communities
The attorneys of Shaffer Family Law represent clients in uncontested Arizona divorces throughout the Valley and the surrounding communities, including Pinal, Pima, Yavapai and Coconino counties. Contact Shaffer Family Law online or call (480) 470-3030 today to discuss how we may be of help in your case.