Divorce is a challenging and emotional process, and navigating the legal system can be daunting. If you’re going through a divorce in Arizona, understanding what to expect during the proceedings can help ease some of the stress. Here, we’ll detail each step of the divorce process and provide useful information to help you prepare.

Navigating divorce proceedings can be complex and emotionally taxing. Consulting with an experienced divorce lawyer in Arizona can provide valuable guidance and representation throughout the process. An attorney can help you understand your rights, negotiate settlements, and advocate for your interests in court.

Filing for Divorce

1. Residency Requirement

Before filing for divorce in Arizona, at least one spouse must have lived in the state for a minimum of 90 days.

2. Initial Petition

The divorce process begins when one spouse files a petition for dissolution of marriage with the family court. This spouse is known as the “petitioner,” while the other spouse is the “respondent.”

3. Serving the Petition

The petitioner must formally serve the divorce papers to the respondent. This can be done through a process server, sheriff’s department, or via certified mail.

Responding to the Petition

Timeline

The respondent has 20 days from the date of service (30 days if served out-of-state) to file a response. Failing to respond may result in a default judgment, where the court may grant the divorce based on the petitioner’s terms.

Temporary Orders

Request for Orders

Either party can request temporary orders for issues such as child custody, support, and use of shared property. These orders are meant to provide stability and meet immediate needs until the final divorce decree is issued.

Temporary Orders Hearing

The court will schedule a hearing to review requests for temporary orders. Both parties will present evidence and arguments, after which the judge will issue temporary rulings.

Discovery Process

Disclosure of Information

Both parties are required to disclose financial information, such as income, assets, debts, and expenses. This ensures an equitable division of property and calculation of support obligations.

Depositions and Interrogatories

During discovery, either party can request depositions, where witnesses provide sworn testimony, and interrogatories, which are written questions that must be answered under oath.

Negotiations and Settlement

Mediation

Arizona courts often encourage mediation as a means to reach an amicable settlement. A neutral third-party mediator helps facilitate discussions and negotiations between the spouses.

Settlement Agreement

If both parties agree on all terms, they can draft a settlement agreement, which outlines the division of property, child custody arrangements, and support payments. The court must approve this agreement.

Court Hearings

Preliminary Hearings

These are brief hearings to update the court on the status of the case, resolve procedural issues, and ensure compliance with required disclosures.

Trial

If a settlement cannot be reached, the case goes to trial. During the trial, each party presents evidence and witnesses. The judge will then decide on contested issues and issue the final divorce decree.

Finalizing the Divorce

If both parties agree, the judge will approve the consent decree, and the divorce will be finalized without a trial.

Final Decree

The final divorce decree is issued by the judge, marking the official end of the marriage. This decree outlines the terms of the divorce, including property division, child custody, and support obligations.

Post-Divorce Considerations

Modifications

Either party can request modifications to the divorce decree if circumstances change significantly. Common reasons include changes in income, relocation, or changes in the needs of a child.

Enforcement

If one party fails to comply with the terms of the divorce decree, the other party can file a petition to enforce the decree, and the court may take corrective measures.

Understanding what to expect during your divorce proceedings in Arizona Family Court can help you navigate the process more confidently. Each divorce is unique, so seeking personalized legal counsel is recommended to best address your specific circumstances.