Divorce on the Rise in AZ

According to the most recent statistics issued by the Arizona Department of Health Services, in 2011, the number of divorces filed in the state rose, topping out at 25,438 divorces and annulments granted that year. National statistics similarly indicate a rise in divorces granted across the country with a reported 877,000 divorces issued nationwide that same year. If you are contemplating divorce, seek the advice of a qualified divorce lawyer in Tucson right away.

Eligibility criteria for filing for divorce in Arizona

Divorce, known as dissolution of marriage under Arizona law, is the legal process of ending a marriage. To file for divorce in Arizona, either spouse must have lived in the state for at least three months prior to filing the petition for dissolution of marriage. The petition must be filed in the Superior Court of the county where the filing spouse resides. Either spouse is eligible to file to dissolve the marriage.

What types of issues are addressed in a dissolution decree?

Following the termination of legal proceedings, a dissolution decree, or ruling, is issued. It may address these issues.

  • Marriage termination
  • Childcare matters including parenting time, child support, and the granting of legal decision-making authority
  • Spousal maintenance, or alimony
  • Division of jointly owned and separately acquired property
  • Assignment of jointly owned and separately incurred debts
  • Payment of attorneys’ fees and costs
  • Restoration of a spouse’s last name, at that spouse’s request

With so many issues needing to be addressed in divorce proceedings, it is imperative that a person contemplating divorce seek the counsel of a veteran divorce attorney as soon as possible. Our compassionate family law attorneys at the Benavidez Law Group, P.C. can help you explore your rights and obligations in a divorce.