Filing for divorce in Arizona is a watershed moment in the lives of married couples who think their relationship is beyond repair. Divorce is indeed a severe life situation. However, it is also a legal situation as well because marriage is licensed by the state, which means that dissolution of the marriage will require the courts to intervene on some level.

The two primary areas court is concerned with is the safe disposition of minor dependent children and an equitable division of marital property, as long as there are no extenuating circumstances such as domestic abuse. Any testimony that shows there has been physical altercations or threats could quickly impact the outcome of a divorce, especially when there is obvious potential for a problem.

The best course of action for all married couples would be to work out an amicable divorce decree agreement through mediation that itemizes all property and addresses all concerns regarding children. Additionally, there are some actions that any divorcing spouse will want to consider during the separation process.

What to do when Filing for Divorce in Arizona

Step 1: Initial Preparation

Taking an inventory of all issues that will result following a divorce is always the best first step. Prioritize everything, including what you want for the children. Some divorces can be finalized quickly when there are no complications, but divorces can be complicated by nature when there are ongoing family issues involved.

Step 2: File for a Temporary Order Immediately

Once you know what you want from the divorce, it is not advised to procrastinate. File for legal separation immediately. Filing for divorce in Arizona can be accomplished by retaining an experienced lawyer, such as the legal professionals at Cantor Law Group, who can ensure that all legalities are addressed from the very beginning.

Step 3: Request Mediation

The Arizona court system is more acceptable to the wishes of divorcing spouses when they have made a documented effort to prepare an amiable marriage dissolution agreement, but the truth is that many divorces are very contentious. Mediation offers an opportunity for each spouse to address their concerns in a private negotiation process that includes legal representatives and a mediator. Know what you want going in and have your legal counsel with you protecting your constitutional rights to property division and personal protection.

What to Avoid while Filing for Divorce in Arizona

Confrontational Behavior

It can be very easy for a victimized spouse to claim domestic abuse, including verbal assault or stalking during a legal separation time period. It is essential for both sides in a divorce to keep their composure throughout the process regardless of how emotions are strained. The divorce itself is a civil matter, very similar to a business dissolution, but any time there is a chance someone could be harmed, the issue can become criminal quickly. The final divorce conditions may not be favorable as well.

Requesting Child Support

Child support responsibilities begin as soon as a separation is legal based on a temporary order. The order will recognize the new living arrangements for the children and child support will be assigned accordingly, often based on the supporting spouse’s income level. Your Arizona family law attorney will understand how this is typically calculated and can assist in arriving at a reasonable child support payment level.

Make Additional Agreements Outside the Mediated Decree

Additional agreements with former spouses can complicate a divorce proceeding or the ongoing interrelationship with the family. Always discuss any issue that was not addressed in mediation with your legal counselor before making a deal, and consider amending the agreement when a change is being made. Always make sure to comply with the agreement or any legal directives from the court.

All divorcing spouses should remember that filing for a divorce in Arizona is just as much about the future as it is the past.  The structure of a divorce agreement can impact how amiable that separation becomes. Call our offices today at (602) 254-8880 if you are considering a divorce in Arizona and let Cantor Law Group help.