Every Arizona family law case is unique, meaning each case requires its own solution. If you choose to be represented by The Peterson Law Firm, you will find that you are not simply another file in a drawer. You’ll have direct access to your divorce lawyer in Tempe for clear guidance on divorce and support throughout the process, including more complex or contested cases.
Every divorce carries real consequences for your family, your finances, and your future. We take the time to understand your situation and build a plan that reflects your priorities.
Divorce cases often connect to other legal issues. We provide full support across all areas that affect your role and responsibilities.
A divorce in Arizona, legally called a "dissolution of marriage," is a court procedure to end a marriage.
The spouse who files for divorce is called the Petitioner, while the other spouse is referred to as the Respondent. Arizona is recognized as a “no-fault state,” which means that neither spouse needs to give a reason for the divorce. Only one person needs to declare that he or she believes the marriage is irreparable.
Divorces can range from straightforward to highly contentious. If you are facing disagreements over custody, property, or support, working with a high-conflict divorce attorney ensures your rights are protected and your case is presented clearly.
This can be more complicated if a couple chooses to have a "covenant marriage" at the time of their marriage or later converts their marriage to a covenant marriage. This type of marriage represents a commitment by each person to make all reasonable efforts to remain married, only pursuing a divorce if it is based on some recognized fault.
The couple is required to take premarital counseling prior to the marriage and agree that they will only divorce if proper grounds exist. The party seeking the divorce is required to prove fault, as explained by Arizona law.
Examples of valid grounds for divorce in a covenant marriage include, but are not limited to:
It is also important to remember that Arizona has a residency requirement that prevents anyone from filing for divorce if he or she has not maintained residence in Arizona for at least 90 days prior to filing.
You are not required to hire a divorce lawyer in Arizona to represent you in your proceedings. However, a court will not simply terminate a marriage.
It must make a finding on many of the following issues: legal decision-making (formerly custody), parenting time and child support, spousal maintenance (alimony), division of property acquired during the marriage, dividing responsibility for debts accumulated during the marriage, and deciding who will cover attorney fees and other legal costs.
Whether your case is straightforward or more involved, The Peterson Law Firm is here to help. Get experienced legal support from one of The Valley’s most trusted high conflict divorce attorney and contested divorce lawyer.
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Not really. Filing first doesn’t give any major legal advantage. Both spouses have equal rights during the process.
Yes. Arizona follows community property laws, which generally means marital property is divided equally between spouses, though specific circumstances may affect the outcome.
The minimum time is 60 days after the petition is served, but most cases take several months, depending on complexity, agreements, or court scheduling. Our divorce attorney services are here to help you stay organized and move your case forward.
The first step is filing a Petition for Dissolution of Marriage with the court. After that, the other spouse must be officially served with the paperwork.
In Arizona, community property refers to most assets and debts that either spouse acquired during the course of the marriage. This can include income, homes, vehicles, and even retirement accounts.
The timeline for a contested divorce varies depending on the level of disagreement and court scheduling. A contested divorce lawyer can help move your case forward more efficiently while protecting your rights throughout the process.
From filing paperwork to protecting your rights, we’re here to help you achieve a brighter future. Our divorce lawyers in Arizona make things simple and focus on what matters most to you. We are committed to protecting you and your family.
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We value each and every one of our clients, employees, friends, and neighbors. Together, we have a social responsibility as a community partner to take proactive measures to keep our community well and to help stop the spread of COVID-19.
Our office will remain open during regular business hours. However, we are implementing some additional precautions to limit social interactions and personal proximity. Specifically, we will seek to conduct consultations, meetings, conferences through video teleconferencing or on the phone whenever possible. Should an in-person appointment be needed, then we will coordinate those on an appointment basis.
If you have questions about your case and the status of the court, then please call. Our Firm will continually monitor the status of the coronavirus, so we are prepared to resume normal operations as quickly as possible.
From all of us at The Peterson Law Firm, please stay well.
