how to get a divorce in arkansas if you cant afford a lawyer

by Luigi Christiansen 9 min read

If you can’t afford an attorney and you don’t qualify for a court appointed attorney, the judge can order your spouse to pay your attorney's fees if they are the monied spouse. You would have to make a motion for this and the monied spouse has the right to give an arguments as to why they should not pay.

Full Answer

How much does it cost to get divorce in Arkansas?

Mar 31, 2016 · It’s a little easier to represent yourself in family court, and once you get custody and support orders, you can proceed with an uncontested divorce. Get An Order For Counsel Fees . If you can’t afford an attorney and you don’t qualify for a court appointed attorney, the judge can order your spouse to pay your attorney's fees if they are the monied spouse. You would have to …

How long does an uncontested divorce take in Arkansas?

May 21, 2020 · Even if you can’t afford a lawyer, most lawyers will give you a free consultation. Make sure you visit a lawyer your ex hasn’t seen, as it’s illegal for a lawyer to meet with you if they’ve already consulted with your ex. When you meet with your lawyer, explain the basic details of your separation.

How soon can you get remarried after divorce in Arkansas?

Feb 25, 2022 · Requirements For a divorce in Arkansas . Residency: You or your spouse must have lived in Arkansas at least 60 days before you file for divorce and for at least 3 months before the judgment is given. Separation Period: If you are filing for a no-fault divorce, your spouse and you must live separately for a period of at least 18 months. The separation should …

Do you have to sign divorce papers in Arkansas?

To file for divorce in Arkansas, you will first need a Complaint for Divorce or a Petition. This is your document which tells the court that you want a divorce and why. It also tells the court what else you want (i.e. custody). You will also need a Summons, which tells your spouse that you have filed a legal action against him or her.

How much does it cost to file for divorce in Arkansas without a lawyer?

How Much Does it Cost to File for Divorce in Arkansas? You'll need to pay a filing fee of approximately $165 when you file a petition for divorce in Arkansas, although fees may vary from county to county. You should check with your local court for the most up-to-date information.

What is the cheapest way to get a divorce in Arkansas?

An uncontested divorce is much faster and cheaper than traditional divorce—spouses can often use a DIY solution like an online divorce service. They do, though, also have the option of getting professional help.

How much does it cost to get a divorce in Arkansas?

Divorce Filing Fees and Typical Attorney Fees by StateStateAverage Filing FeesOther Divorce Costs and Attorney FeesArkansas$165Average fees: $8,000+California$435 (Ask for a fee waiver)Average fees: $14,000Colorado$230Average fees: $11,000+Connecticut$360 (excluding paternity legal action)Average fees: $12,000+48 more rows•Jul 21, 2020

What is the fastest way to get a divorce in Arkansas?

The easiest and fastest way to get a divorce in Arkansas is an uncontested divorce. With this type, you and your spouse agree to end your marriage based on your personal, economic, or health situations. Additionally, you and your spouse agree on the division of assets and debts, as well as child custody and visitation.

How long do you have to be separated in Arkansas to get a divorce?

How long do you have to be separated before you can get divorced in Arkansas? You must live separately from your spouse for 18 months in order to be granted a divorce in Arkansas.

What is a Uncontested divorce?

In an uncontested divorce, the husband and wife have to file a petition in the family court of the location where they last lived. After receiving the petition and recording the statement of both the spouses, the court adjourns the matter for 6 months.Oct 22, 2019

Is Arkansas A 50/50 divorce state?

Arkansas is NOT a community property state, which means that marital property is not automatically divided 50/50 between the spouses in a divorce case.

How long does an uncontested divorce take in Arkansas?

Uncontested divorces. Legally, a divorce is required to take at least a month. The law requires that 30 days pass between the day of filing and the entry of the divorce decree. If everyone is agreeable, then we can get a divorce completed, realistically, within about 45-60 days.

What are the grounds for divorce in Arkansas?

The fault-based grounds for divorce in Arkansas are: Impotence - Your spouse was impotent at the time of the marriage and continues to be impotent; Felony conviction - Your spouse is convicted of a felony or other “infamous crime;”Feb 14, 2022

Can you get a divorce without the other person signing the papers?

Unopposed divorces An uncontested divorce can arise in two instances, the first being a situation where the sheriff has served the summons, and your spouse fails to defend the action. In this instance, the court may grant you a decree of divorce by default.Aug 7, 2019

Can you get a divorce without going to court?

It is possible to get divorced without going to court, as long as your partner agrees to the divorce and the reasons why. However, it is still possible that you will need to go to court to decide what happens to money, property and children.Apr 26, 2018

How can I get a quick divorce?

Here's how to get an uncontested, quick divorce; Communicate with your spouse throughout the process. Find your marriage certificate before starting divorce proceedings. Find valid grounds for divorce and agree with your spouse. Ask your spouse to promptly complete and return paperwork.

What are the grounds for divorce in Arkansas?

Arkansas is a fault state for divorce. This means whoever files for divorce must show that he/she has grounds or reasons to get a divorce from the...

What is a divorce going to cost me in Arkansas? Can I afford it?

The cost of a divorce can vary. Much of the cost depends on the other side — how much he/she is wanting to contest the divorce and how reasonable a...

Do I really need to hire an Arkansas divorce attorney?

If you and your spouse do not have any property (no land, houses, personal property of any real value, no retirement) or children, then you may be...

Does Arkansas grant divorces based on marital fault?

Yes, in Arkansas in order to get a divorce, you will have to prove to the court that your spouse did something to you. The only way to get a divorc...

Can I get maintenance or will I have to provide maintenance to my spouse?

When determining spousal support in Arkansas, the primary factor the courts will look at is whether one person can afford to pay spousal support to...

Does it matter who files for divorce first in Arkansas?

No, it doesn’t matter who files for divorce first in Arkansas. Both parties will have the opportunity to deny claims and state their own requests....

Is Arkansas a 50/50 divorce state?

It depends. Arkansas is an “equitable distribution” state in regards to property division during a divorce. Property can be divided privately betwe...

Can I change my name at the time of divorce?

If you want to change your name, you will need to make this request in your Complaint for Divorce, which is the document that tells the court you w...

When can I file for divorce in Arkansas?

In order to file for a divorce in Arkansas, you must be a resident of Arkansas for at least 60 days before you file your Complaint for Divorce. You...

What to do if you can't afford a divorce lawyer?

Taking the case to a local law school for representation. Staying legally married, but remaining separated. There are thankfully many options available if you cannot afford a divorce lawyer, but still need legal protection. Limited Scope Representation.

How much does a divorce lawyer charge?

Most lawyers charge a retainer of $3,500 to $10,000 per spouse, and this is only the first fee you will have to pay. Most people don’t have that kind of money to spare.

What are the two types of separation?

There are two types of separation: simple separation and legal separation. For a simple separation, there is no legal intervention. If you have no other variables like children, debt, or property, simple separation is the easiest and most affordable route.

What is alimony in divorce?

Alimony or spousal support. Property and debt allocation. This route allows both parties to actively control their spousal rights and obligations without having to go to court. Your separation agreement must pass legal muster, so you will need a bit of help from a divorce lawyer.

What is a limited scope divorce?

Having a limited scope reduces your divorces’s legal fees, and is completely manageable if you do not go to court. Your lawyer can help you with some of the following: There are two types of separation: simple separation and legal separation. For a simple separation, there is no legal intervention.

Can you walk away from a marriage?

In a separation, you can walk away from the marriage as swiftly and painlessly as possible, but you’re still legally married. If there are still legal obligations, you’ll need to fulfill them. For example, if your ex was in an accident, you’d have to make all the medical decisions for them if they could not.

Can a divorce lawyer offer free services?

A divorce lawyer won’t likely offer you free services, but they may offer you discounted services. You can still get legal protection for your divorce, but it’ll be much more affordable since you may not get full legal representation. These options include: Reduced hourly fee. Limited scope retainer.

How to file for divorce in Arkansas?

The first step to filing for a divorce in Arkansas is to fill out the proper forms and then submitting or filing them in the county court. The first form you must complete is the “Complaint for Divorce”, which must state that either your spouse or you have been a resident of the state of Arkansas for at least a period of 60 days ...

How long do you have to live in Arkansas to file for divorce?

Residency: To file for a divorce in the state of Arkansas, your spouse or you must have resided in the state at least 60 days before you file for divorce and for at least 3 months until the judgment is given.

What forms are needed to file for divorce in Arkansas?

Some of the forms needed to file for a divorce in Arkansas are: Answer Form: This form shows proof that the copies of the divorce papers which have been filed have been received by the other party. Dissolution of Marriage: This form consists of the dissolution forms and the marital settlement agreement.

What are the fault grounds for divorce in Arkansas?

However, this is a more complex process, as you will then have to prove the grounds. The fault-based grounds in Arkansas are: Alcoholism. Impotence.

How long do you have to live together after divorce in Arkansas?

During the separation period of 18 months, your spouse and you should not have cohabited. If you live together even for 1 day after separation, your 18-month period will begin all over again. Usually, separation for a period of 18 months and general indignities are the most common grounds for divorce in Arkansas, as these are easy to prove. ...

What is contested divorce?

If your spouse and you are not able to agree on the various terms of divorce such as property division, alimony, child custody and child support, etc. , then this is known as a contested divorce. This can be a long, expensive and difficult process, which may require you to hire an attorney to represent your case in the court, resolve the disagreements and protect your interests.

What is joint custody in Arkansas?

In Arkansas, the child custody law determines the custody on basis of the best interests and welfare of the child irrespective of the sex of the parent.

How to file for divorce in Arkansas?

To file for divorce in Arkansas, you will first need a Complaint for Divorce or a Petition. This is your document which tells the court that you want a divorce and why. It also tells the court what else you want (i.e. custody). You will also need a Summons, which tells your spouse that you have filed a legal action against him or her.

What are the grounds for divorce in Arkansas?

The grounds for divorce in Arkansas are the following: Impotence; The other spouse was convicted of a felony; Habitual drunkenness; Cruel and barbarous treatment; Adultery; General indignities; Lived separate and apart for eighteen 18 continuous months;

How long do you have to be a resident of Arkansas to file for divorce?

In order to file for a divorce in Arkansas, you must be a resident of Arkansas for at least 60 days before you file your Complaint for Divorce. You will have to continue to be a resident of Arkansas for 30 days after you file your Complaint.

How long do you have to file a complaint for divorce?

If you are served with a Complaint for Divorce, then you have 30 days to file an Answer, which is a written response to the Complaint. If you or your spouse is incarcerated when served with the Complaint for divorce, then you or your spouse has 60 days to file an Answer.

What does it mean to have a diligent attempt to serve your spouse?

Diligent attempts means that you have sent the divorce papers to the last known place your spouse was living. You will need to send the papers by cert ified mail, restricted delivery with return receipt requested or have a process server go to your spouse’s last known place of residence to attempt service.

How long does a divorce hearing last?

For the most part, the judge will expect you to go to court to finalize the divorce. A hearing as described above, is very short, lasting about 10 minutes long. If your spouse has signed the divorce decree, therefore, making this an uncontested divorce then she/he will not have to go to court either.

How long does it take to get divorced?

However, as long as you can prove fault or prove that you and your spouse have been living separate and apart for at least 18 months, then the court will grant your divorce. You will have to be prepared to put on proof of fault or 18 months of separation. You can do this through witnesses or documentary evidence.

How much does a divorce lawyer charge?

Your lawyer may negotiate this charge before beginning your case. The hourly rate also may vary because of the complexity of the divorce case. $50 to $300 may be charged for the lawyer service provided for your case.

What information is needed to get a divorce lawyer?

Your current income, asset, real estate asset and debt are information that will ensure your free divorce lawyer. If the court finds that you are really unable to hire a lawyer at high price according to your financial status the court will find a lawyer who can work for you voluntarily.

What happens when a divorce is proven?

When your financial distress is proved, you will be granted to get a free divorce lawyer assigned by the court.

What is a waiver for divorce?

Waiver is available for the people who don’t afford to spend the cost of the divorce lawyer. This is arranged at every state level. The low income people has to clarify that they have lower income and they have to make sure at the court level. There are many formalities to get it because low income family has really low income.

What is flat fee?

Flat Fees. When a lawyer is not charging hourly rate, they can demand for flat rate. Flat rate is a specific rate which can be negotiated between you and your lawyer. If you afford to spend the flat rate, you may go according to your wish.

Why is divorce not a simple issue?

Divorce is not simple issue to resolve because there are strict legal bindings. The reality is really unfavorable because you are going to cut off the relation of the married life through divorce. As it is a legal process, you need to hire a divorce lawyer who can help you settle this issue. Hiring a divorce lawyer is really expensive ...

What is retainer amount?

Sometimes the lawyer can receive an amount before going your case. This is called retainers amount. This amount is adjusted with hourly rate. Some lawyer go this way to support your case for bearing the cost of the papers, evidence and case related documents.

How much does unemployment affect divorce?

NPR reported that for every 1% increase in unemployment, the divorce rate decreases by 1% – an indication that limited means drastically affects a couple’s ability to legally divorce.

Is private mediation good?

Private Mediation is another good option. "The mediation process uses a third party to help spouses settle their marital issues without having to go to court.". There are many options to explore. No woman or child should ever remain in an unhealthy home under any circumstances.

Is divorce needed in a marriage?

As life takes us through some twists and turns, sometimes a divorce becomes not only wanted but very much needed. There are many women who find themselves in dysfunctional or even abusive relationships that need to come ...

Is divorce an expensive process?

Yet, unfortunately, it's not always easy or simple to escape this situation. Divorce is a very expensive process .

How much does it cost to get divorced in Arkansas?

Fees to file for divorce in Arkansas vary from county to county but are generally around $150. For an exact filing fee, check with the county court where you plan to file. You will also need to pay a service fee to have your paperwork delivered formally to your spouse.

What is divorce in Arkansas?

Divorce . Divorce is a permanent and legal end to a marriage in Arkansas. All ties are severed, assets are divided, custody and alimony issues are resolved, and each spouse goes their separate way after a final decree is issued.

How long do you have to live apart in Arkansas for a divorce?

With a no-fault divorce, you must live apart from your spouse for a minimum of 18 months. In a fault-based divorce, at least one of the spouses must prove that at least one of them lived in Arkansas for at least 60 days.

What is an annulment in Arkansas?

Annulment . Annulments are granted in Arkansas as long as specific grounds are met. An annulment means that a marriage is considered null, as if it never happened. Grounds for an annulment are met when someone is incapable of lawfully consenting to a marriage for any the following reasons:

What is a felony conviction?

conviction of a felony. habitual drunkenness for at least one year after the marriage began. cruel and barbarous treatment toward a spouse. behavior which results in intolerable humiliation, embarrassment, or shame to the other spouse. adultery.

How to give yourself the best chance at achieving the best possible outcome?

To give yourself the best chance at achieving the best possible outcome, you need to be organized and proactive when it comes to pulling together the information you will need.

What is the meaning of "one or both parties were too young to legally marry"?

one or both parties were too young to legally marry. one or both parties were mentally unable to understand and consent to the marriage. one or both parties were incapable of marrying due to physical causes. consent to marry was obtained through fraud or force.

What is mediation in divorce?

The mediation process uses a third party to help spouses settle their marital issues without having to go to court. A certified divorce mediator is typically an attorney or financial expert, trained in dispute resolution. This is a method couples should consider if they think they can compromise and both want to avoid the courtroom, but feel they need assistance in reaching a settlement.

What are the issues that must be resolved in a legal separation case?

You must file a petition for legal separation and have it served on your spouse, you must exchange specific financial information, and you must decide all relevant issues, such as custody, child support, alimony, and property division.

What to do when you end a relationship?

First, if the decision to end the relationship is the result of physical or emotional violence, do whatever it takes to get out. Stay with a friend or relative, or at a shelter, until you can figure out the next step.

What to do if you can't pay off credit card balance?

If you have a balance you can't pay off on existing credit cards, freeze the account so that neither partner can run up the debt further. Also put freezes on home equity so that neither of you can take out a second mortgage or line of credit.".

What to do if you're staying home?

If you've been staying home, you might try looking for ways to volunteer, join a political campaign, take a part-time job if you can find it. At the very least, you can do something each day to feel in control, such as exercising or reaching out to your friends.

Can you close a joint bank account?

Depending in part on the hostility of the situation, you may want to close a joint bank account in favor of separate ones; if you keep it open, you can arrange for each partner to contribute a certain amount every month to cover the household bills.

Can you shred joint cards and get a new one in your own name?

Credit is a different story. "Shred joint cards and get a new one in your own name," recommends Lisa Decker , an Atlanta-area-based financial analyst specializing in divorce.