If you are preparing to get divorced, you probably want to get through the divorce process as quickly as possible. This is understandable, as no one wants to deal with the process itself, and getting through the process soon means you can focus on starting your new life.
While certain parts of the divorce process inevitably take time, spouses can also take several steps to help ensure that the process takes no longer than necessary. Here are some tips from Phoenix divorce lawyer Adam Weingart:
Tip #1: Learn About the Divorce Process in Arizona
One way you can help ensure your divorce goes as smoothly as possible is by learning about the divorce process in Arizona. If you know what to expect, you can plan and avoid getting caught off guard. Having a plan is critical. While you might need to deviate from your strategy to compromise with your spouse, knowing what lies ahead—and being ready to make crucial decisions when the time comes—will allow you to quickly make confident decisions with your long-term best interests in mind.
Our Arizona Divorce Roadmap provides an overview of what you can expect along the way. It provides an overview of the seven significant steps in the divorce process in Arizona, along with some tips for navigating each of these steps successfully. If you are getting serious about filing for divorce and want to know what you can (and should) expect, this is an excellent place to start.
Tip #2: Start Thinking About Your Priorities
No one gets everything in a divorce. That’s just the way it works. To resolve their divorce amicably, both spouses must be willing to compromise—otherwise, a judge will decide who gets what in court.
With this in mind, now is a good time to start thinking about your priorities. If you figure out your priorities now, you will be prepared to make difficult decisions when needed. You won’t have to take time to think through your options (because you will have done so already), and you won’t have to delay the process.
Of course, you can’t predict everything. Your spouse might ask for something you’re not expecting, or he or she might be unwilling to budge on specific issues—and if you need time to make difficult decisions, you should take the time you need.
Tip #3: Start Collecting the Documents You Will Need
Collecting the documents you need for your divorce upfront can help streamline the process later. At a minimum, you will need the documents on this list. We recommend making copies of everything and keeping a running list as you gather the documents you must share with your divorce lawyer.
Tip #4: Give Your Divorce the Time and Attention it Demands
While it is understandable to want the divorce process to go as quickly as possible, giving your divorce the time and attention it demands is also essential. Ultimately, this will help the process move soon as well. Do everything necessary to prepare, communicate effectively with your divorce lawyer, and set aside time for your divorce when necessary. You will avoid being the reason for unnecessary delays.
Tip #5: Consider Your Options for Streamlining the Divorce Process
There are several ways to approach the divorce process, some more efficient than others. To get through the divorce process as quickly as possible, you will want to consider options such as:
- Uncontested Divorce—Pursuing an uncontested divorce involves doing the legwork upfront so you and your spouse can go to court with a divorce settlement agreement. This can be a very efficient approach, and it is a standard solution for spouses willing to work together to end their marriage in Arizona.
- Flat-Fee Mediation—Another efficient option is flat-fee mediation. This involves sitting down with a single lawyer who serves as a neutral mediator to guide you and your spouse toward an amicable resolution. If you and your spouse come to terms, your lawyer can prepare the paperwork to finalize your divorce in court.
An experienced divorce lawyer can help you choose the option that makes the most sense for your specific circumstances. Of course, pursuing an uncontested divorce or mediation requires your spouse’s participation, and his or her interest in achieving an efficient resolution will also be a significant factor in determining how your divorce progresses and how long it takes overall.
Tip #6: Consider Your Options for Coming to Terms with Your Spouse
Along with thinking about your priorities, it will also be helpful to consider your options for coming to terms with your spouse. If you and your spouse share some of the same priorities, what are you willing to give up to keep the process moving? What will your spouse give up to keep the process moving? These essential questions will inevitably arise, and you’ll need answers to avoid unnecessary delays.
Tip #7: Work Closely with Your Divorce Lawyer Throughout the Process
Finally, you will want to work closely with your divorce lawyer to keep your divorce moving forward efficiently. You should respond to your lawyer’s questions promptly, and if you need to meet in person, you should make arrangements to meet as soon as possible. You should also think carefully about any decisions that need to be made, as rushing your decision-making could lead to unnecessary delays and undesirable outcomes in the future.
Schedule a Free Initial Divorce Consultation at Weingart Family Law in Phoenix, AZ
If you are considering a divorce in Arizona and would like to speak with a lawyer, we invite you to contact us. To schedule a free initial consultation with a Phoenix divorce lawyer at Weingart Family Law, please call 480-542-0099 or contact us online today.