Best Family Law Attorneys in Phoenix, AZ

The paperwork and processes for a divorce and a legal separation are extremely similar to one another. In both cases, if there are children involved, the court will make findings regarding legal decision making, parenting time and child support. In both cases, the court will make rulings about the distribution of property and debt. If applicable, in both cases, the court could enter judgment regarding alimony. However, at the end of a legal separation case, the parties are still married. Each individual has very clear guidelines about his or her responsibilities and rights.

Yes, you have the absolute right to choose the attorney with whom you work. If you have consulted with the attorney to whom you want to switch to, he or she can help you communicate with your former attorney to file the required paperwork, obtain a copy of the file and get up to speed in the case.

No, you do not have to hire an attorney. Many individuals handle their own cases and do a phenomenal job at doing so. However, one thing to keep in mind if you do decide to handle your own case is the fact that the court will hold you to the same standard to which an educated and trained attorney is held. You must meet the deadlines and follow the rules. If you fail to do so, there could be negative repercussions for you and your case.

No, you do not necessarily have to go to court. If you and the other party are able to reach agreements about the issues in dispute, you can put those agreements in writing, then submit them to the judge for approval. If the judge approves your agreements, you will not have to go to court.

Probably not. There are a variety of factors a court looks at in determining what the custody arrangement between the parties will look like. The main thing the judge will consider is what custody decision will best serve the children. The fact that your spouse began dating prior to your divorce being final alone probably will not be enough to convince a judge that your spouse does not have the best interests of the children at heart.