Divorce, also known as dissolution of marriage, is a legal procedure that terminates a marriage or marital union. In Arizona, individuals have the choice to manage their divorce independently, commonly known as a “Do-It-Yourself” (DIY) divorce.
Grasping Arizona Divorce Laws
Before opting for a DIY divorce, it’s essential to comprehend Arizona’s divorce laws. Arizona operates as a “no-fault” divorce state, allowing one party to file for divorce without citing a specific reason or proving misconduct by the other party.
DIY Divorce: Steps and Procedures
A DIY divorce in Arizona includes several steps:
- Submitting a Petition: The initial step involves filing a Petition for Dissolution of Marriage with the clerk of the Superior Court in the county where one or both spouses reside.
- Serving the Petition: Following that, the petition must be served to the other spouse, either through a process server or by mail.
- Response and Negotiation: The respondent is given a specific timeframe to respond to the petition. If both parties agree on all matters, they can submit a consent decree to the court.
- Finalizing the Divorce: Once the court deems the agreement fair and in the best interest of any children involved, the judge will sign the decree, concluding the divorce.
Family Law Assistance in Arizona
For those requiring aid with family law matters but lacking the financial means for an attorney, Arizona provides various resources:
- Family Law Self-Service Centers: These centers supply forms and information for individuals managing their family law cases.
- Legal Aid Organizations: Entities like Community Legal Services extend free or low-cost legal advice and representation to eligible individuals.
- Mediation Services: Mediation presents a cost-effective method for settling disputes outside of the court.
Conclusion
While a DIY divorce can be a cost-saving option, it demands a comprehensive understanding of Arizona’s divorce laws and procedures. Seeking legal advice is advisable if any aspect of the process raises uncertainty.