Standing by Your Side through Divorce

Divorce Lawyer in Mesa

Contact Our Experienced Divorce Attorneys in Mesa for Guidance

Deciding to divorce your spouse can be difficult; however, it is often the best choice for a family. Divorce may seem like an overwhelming process that will drag on far too long, but the good news is that it doesn’t have to be—especially when you retain a skilled Mesa divorce lawyer to guide you through it.

When you come to work with the team at Bastian Law Offices, PLC, we start by listening to your case and working with you to understand your situation. Once we have determined what type of divorce may be best, we can break down your options and help you move forward from there. Our main priority is to ensure that you positively dissolve your marriage, giving the boost you need to confidently embrace your new life.

Contact our trusted divorce lawyer in Mesa at (480) 526-4614 to schedule a confidential consultation.

How Do I File for Divorce in Mesa, Arizona?

Meet the Arizona Residency Requirements for Divorce. At least one spouse must have been "domiciled" in—or a resident of—Arizona for 90 days before filing a divorce petition.
Get Your Divorce Papers. Go to the Superior Court in the county where you live and obtain your divorce packets from the library resource center or the Clerk of Court. You can also apply and obtain Arizona divorce papers online.
Fill Out Your Divorce Papers. To avoid mistakes, it's best to complete your divorce paperwork with the help of a divorce attorney.
Make Two Copies of All Divorce Paperwork. The original copies will be filed with the Court, you will keep a copy for yourself, and a copy will be served to your spouse.
File Your Divorce Papers. Return to the Superior Court in the county where you live and file your divorce paperwork with the Clerk of Court. They will keep the original papers and stamp them as "filed."
Pay the Divorce Filing Fee. If you cannot afford to file for divorce, then you may apply to have the fee waived.
Serve the Divorce Papers to Your Spouse. The Clerk of Court can help you arrange to have a copy of your divorce papers served to your spouse, either by a sheriff or by a registered process server. Your spouse, the "Respondent," must be served these papers within 120 days of them being filed. They must then file a response within 20 days of being served the divorce papers.

Filing for divorce in Arizona requires a detailed understanding of not only the legal procedure but also the emotional dynamics involved. Different types of divorce procedures, like uncontested and contested divorces, require specific strategies that our skilled attorneys can handle with finesse, ensuring you choose the right approach. This comprehensive handling of cases helps avoid unnecessary delays and complications that can arise when paperwork is not completed accurately or submitted timely.

Legal Separation Vs. Divorce: Which is Right for You?

Legal separation and divorce in Arizona may seem similar, but they serve different purposes and outcomes. Legal separation allows couples to live apart without ending the marriage legally, often chosen for personal or religious reasons. It provides a framework for managing marital responsibilities, such as dividing finances and property, without the finality of divorce. If reconciliation is a future possibility, legal separation serves as an interim step that keeps the marriage legally intact.

Divorce, known legally as the dissolution of marriage, permanently ends the marriage and addresses crucial matters like asset division, spousal support, and child custody agreements. Determining whether legal separation or divorce is more appropriate depends on your circumstances and long-term goals. Consulting with our Mesa divorce attorney can provide clarity and assistance in making this decision, ensuring that all available options are weighed and the best path is chosen for your situation.

Navigating Child Custody & Support in Mesa

Child custody arrangements in Mesa are driven by the best interests of the child, aiming to facilitate continuity and stability. Arizona law emphasizes joint custody, where both parents share responsibilities, although this is not always feasible. Factors influencing custody decisions include parental involvement, living environments, and the child's preferences. It’s vital to demonstrate a willingness to cooperate and maintain an amicable relationship with your co-parent for favorable outcomes.

Child support, on the other hand, ensures that financial needs such as education, health care, and general welfare are adequately met. Mesa courts apply the Arizona Child Support Guidelines to calculate the appropriate amount based on income, number of children, and parenting time. Understanding these legal intricacies with guidance from Bastian Law Offices, PLC helps navigate these sensitive issues, providing a structured approach to achieving the best possible outcome for both parent and child.

Is Arizona a 50/50 Divorce State?

Yes, Arizona is a 50/50 divorce state. A divorce state means that, without any particular circumstances, the court will divide all marital property equally between the spouses. Therefore, marital property includes all assets and debts acquired during the marriage, regardless of which spouse's name they are in.

There are a few exceptions to the 50/50 rule. For example, the court may award a spouse more than 50% of the marital property if they can show that they contributed more to acquiring the property. On the other hand, the court may also award a spouse less than 50% of the marital property if they can show that they cannot support themselves financially.

If you are going through a divorce in Mesa, Arizona, it is crucial to speak with our Mesa divorce attorney to understand your rights and options.

Our divorce attorney can help you negotiate a fair settlement with your spouse or represent you in court if necessary.

It is crucial to have an experienced attorney by your side during property divisions to ensure all factors like asset valuation, debt distribution, and property ownership details are fairly evaluated. Our firm will guide you through the complexities of asset division, clarifying the difference between community and separate property and ensuring your interests are protected throughout the proceedings. This is particularly important if there are significant assets or debts involved that could have long-lasting impacts on your financial future.

Customized Divorce Solutions for Mesa Residents

While many people think of divorce as a straight path, it is actually much more complicated than that. There are many different twists and turns involved, with countless issues and speed bumps that must be resolved along the way. From prenuptial agreements to child custody to property division, these matters can quickly turn a seemingly simple divorce into a complex legal web.

At Bastian Law Offices, PLC, we are here to help you maneuver through the entire process. We are prepared to address every obstacle that comes your way, from residency requirements to debt division. With so many different factors to consider during this time, it is crucial that you hire a legal advocate you can trust to take the heavy legal burden off your shoulders. It is important to realize that there is no “one path” to divorce. We tailor our solution to you.

Types of Divorce: Finding the Right Approach for You

Consult with Our Mesa Divorce Lawyers for Personalized Advice

Ready to discuss your marital situation? We will begin with a phone consultation, answering your divorce and family law questions and providing helpful advice for the process as a whole. If you decide to move forward with retaining our representation, you can feel confident knowing that we have nearly 15 years of experience.

Our Mesa counsel is just a phone call away, so do not hesitate to reach out to us today. We understand that the process of divorce can be a stressful time for a family, especially if children are involved. We are compassionate legal counsel dedicated to fighting for you and your family's best interest.

By working closely with our team, you'll receive a personalized divorce strategy that respects your individual family dynamics, financial considerations, and goals for the future. This individualized approach ensures all aspects of your divorce are handled with care, allowing you to focus on moving forward positively. Our commitment is to support you legally and emotionally throughout this journey, providing clarity and peace of mind.

Secure a Brighter Future with Bastian Law Offices, PLC - Contact Us Now!

FAQs About Divorce in Mesa

What Are the Residency Requirements for Filing Divorce in Mesa?

To file for divorce in Mesa, Arizona, you or your spouse must have lived in the state for at least 90 days prior to filing. This residency requirement helps ensure that the local courts have jurisdiction over your divorce proceedings. If you have children, there are additional residency considerations to ensure that Arizona is the appropriate state to handle matters of child custody and support. Understanding these requirements is crucial, as failing to meet them can delay or complicate your divorce process. Our legal team can guide you in determining your eligibility and help navigate any residency challenges you may face.

How Long Does the Divorce Process Take in Mesa?

The timeline for finalizing a divorce in Mesa can vary significantly depending on the complexity of the case, the level of agreement between the parties, and the court’s schedule. Once the initial petition is filed, there is a mandatory waiting period of at least 60 days before the divorce can be finalized. Uncontested divorces, where both parties agree on key issues, often proceed more quickly than contested divorces, which may involve extensive negotiations or court hearings. Our attorneys work to expedite the process yet remain thorough in protecting your rights and interests, helping to achieve a resolution that supports your future well-being.

What Costs Are Involved in a Mesa Divorce?

Divorce costs can vary based on the specific circumstances of each case. Basic costs include filing fees for the divorce petition, which can be waived under certain conditions of financial hardship. Additional costs may include attorneys' fees, court costs, mediation fees, and any other legal expenses incurred in reaching a settlement or preparing for trial. While these costs can add up, working with an experienced Mesa divorce attorney can ensure that your case is handled efficiently, potentially saving you both time and money in the process.

How is Property Divided During a Mesa Divorce?

Arizona follows community property laws, meaning that all assets and debts acquired during the marriage are typically divided equally between both parties. Exceptions may apply if certain assets are identified as separate property, acquired before the marriage, or inherited by one spouse. Determining the division of property requires a detailed analysis of all financial assets, real estate, and debts. Our team is committed to obtaining a comprehensive view of your financial landscape to secure a fair division, supporting your financial future post-divorce.

What If My Spouse and I Disagree on Child Custody?

Conflicts over child custody often arise during a divorce, as parents may have differing opinions on what arrangement serves the best interests of the child. If an agreement cannot be reached through negotiation or mediation, the court will intervene to make a determination based on several factors, including the child's relationship with each parent, stability, and any special needs. We advocate for your parental rights and aim to achieve a custody arrangement that ensures your child's safety, emotional well-being, and stability. Engaging in open dialogue and documenting parental involvement can strengthen your position during these proceedings.

You don’t have to go through divorce alone. Get compassionate guidance and strong legal support. Contact our divorce lawyer in Mesa (480) 526-4614 at for a confidential consultation!

What Sets Us Apart

Care & Attention

We keep our clients informed about their cases and work hard to shield them from unnecessary stress
Knowledge

Our practice is exclusively focused on family law and we have a thorough understanding of your rights
Experience

Our founding attorney has over 20 years of experience and is a family law judge pro tem

“I selected Cole over the others because of his genuine, decisive approach when we met.”
“I was very happy with my selection. I have recommended him to two closest friends and they have also had nothing but positive feedback on their experience with him.”

Rachel A.
“I felt like you listened to me and fought for me through one of the most difficult times of my life.”
“You are a fantastic attorney and an even better person! I have enjoyed working with you. Thank you again for your amazing service!”

Kimball W.
“Cole is very knowledgeable when it comes to family law.”
“Cole is extremely organized and very calm when it was hard for me to be calm. I would recommend him to anyone that gets stuck in a custody battle!”

Michelle R.
“Thank you both so much for your help.”
“You were great throughout this process!”

Monica R.
“Cole did a superb job guiding me through my divorce.”
“He and his staff were always professional and thorough. He made it easy for me to understand the process and what my options were moving forward.”

Preston P.
“Cole’s reassurance, professionalism, friendliness, and knowledge of the law brought peace of mind to me throughout the ordeal.”
“My first lawyer was requesting a full days trial from the judge and increasing the entire cost of an unpleasant event. Cole undid all the damage of my incompetent lawyer and started from scratch for less than he charged me to do absolutely nothing.”

Shawn M.

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