Going through a divorce can be a difficult and emotional time for anyone. If you are considering filing for divorce in Arizona, it's important to understand the steps involved in the process. In this blog post, we'll provide you with a step-by-step guide on how to start the divorce process in Arizona.
Step 1: Meet the Residency Requirements
To file for divorce in Arizona, you or your spouse must have been a resident of the state for at least 90 days. If you meet this requirement, you can move on to the next step.
Step 2: Determine the Grounds for Divorce
Arizona is a no-fault divorce state, which means that you don't have to prove that your spouse did something wrong in order to file for divorce. You can simply state that the marriage is irretrievably broken.
Step 3: Fill Out the Petition for Dissolution of Marriage
The next step is to fill out the Petition for Dissolution of Marriage. This is the legal document that starts the divorce process. You will need to provide information about yourself, your spouse, and your marriage.
Step 4: Serve Your Spouse with the Petition
Once you have filled out the Petition, you will need to serve your spouse with a copy of the document. You can do this by having a process server deliver it to them, or by having them sign an Acceptance of Service form.
Step 5: Wait for Your Spouse's Response
After your spouse has been served with the Petition, they will have 20 days to respond. If they don't respond within this time frame, you can file for a default judgment.
Step 6: Negotiate a Settlement
If your spouse does respond, you will need to negotiate a settlement. This involves working out issues such as property division, spousal support, and child custody and support.
Step 7: File the Final Decree of Dissolution of Marriage
Once you have reached a settlement, you will need to file the Final Decree of Dissolution of Marriage. This document finalizes the divorce and outlines the terms of the settlement.
Starting the divorce process in Arizona can be overwhelming, but with the right guidance, it can be a smooth process. If you need assistance with your divorce, Signature Law Group, PLLC is here to help. Our experienced attorneys can guide you through every step of the process and ensure that your rights are protected.
Contact us today to schedule a consultation.