In Arizona, there are nearly 19,000 attorneys eligible to practice law. However, as of the start of 2024, the State Bar of Arizona Board of Legal Specialization lists only 64 Certified Family Law Specialists. This statistic reveals that only about 3 out of every 1,000 lawyers in Arizona are Board-Certified Specialists in Family Law. Cantor Law Group, a prominent legal firm, boasts two Board-Certified Family Law Specialists and one Board-Certified Criminal Law Specialist, making them uniquely qualified to handle complex family law cases, including Chandler Divorce and Child Custody cases.
Understanding Divorce Complexities in Chandler, AZ
Divorce proceedings in Chandler, Arizona, can range from simple alimony cases to intricate divorces involving business ownership and high net worth. The nuances of these cases necessitate the expertise of seasoned Chandler Divorce Lawyers, such as those at Cantor Law Group. Their deep knowledge of Chandler Divorce law ensures that clients receive tailored legal representation, particularly in issues like domestic violence, visitation rights, and divorce mediation.
The Best Chandler Divorce Team
Choosing the right family law firm for a divorce case involves evaluating the firm’s overall experience and leadership. Cantor Law Group, established over 20 years ago, specializes in Divorce, Child Custody, and Juvenile Family Law Matters in Arizona. The firm’s founder, David Cantor, is a Board-Certified Criminal Law Specialist. The team includes Nicholas Boca and Travis Owen, both Board-Certified Family Law Specialists, who bring extensive expertise to their clients’ cases.
Evaluating Experience and Results
Cantor Law Group has a track record of handling diverse cases, from everyday situations to high-stakes cases involving professional athletes and high net worth individuals. Their attorneys have been appointed to various legal boards across Arizona and are frequently invited to speak at Continuing Legal Education seminars. This demonstrates their peers’ recognition of their expertise and success in the field.
Family Law FAQs and the Divorce Process in Chandler
Navigating a divorce in Arizona involves understanding several key aspects governed by Title 25 of the Arizona Revised Statutes. These include Child Custody, Property Division, Child Support, and Spousal Support (Alimony). The legal dissolution of a marriage involves resolving these critical issues, providing clarity and direction during this challenging time.
Legal Separation vs. Divorce
Legal Separation and Divorce are similar but distinct processes. Legal Separation does not end the marriage but addresses issues like Child Custody, Spousal Maintenance, and Property Division, similar to a Divorce. Legal Separation can be preferred for religious reasons, health insurance concerns, or other personal considerations. Unlike Divorce, it does not have a 90-day residency requirement.
Covenant Marriage and Divorce
Covenant Marriage in Arizona imposes additional requirements and makes the divorce process more stringent compared to traditional marriages. Couples opting for Covenant Marriage must meet specific conditions for marriage and, subsequently, for divorce.
Contested vs. Uncontested Divorce
Divorce can be either contested or uncontested. An uncontested divorce occurs when both spouses agree on all terms, leading to a Consent Decree. Conversely, a contested divorce arises when there are disagreements on any issue, necessitating legal intervention and potentially a trial, often requiring the expertise of a Chandler divorce lawyer.
Collaborative Divorce and Annulment
Collaborative Divorce, a relatively new process in Chandler, involves a different approach from traditional divorce. An annulment, on the other hand, is a legal declaration that a marriage never existed.
Preparing for Divorce
Preparing for divorce involves several crucial steps:
- Contacting an experienced attorney, like those at Cantor Law Group.
- Privatizing social media and changing online account passwords.
- Gathering all financial documents.
- Listing all assets and debts, including personal property.
- Maintaining mental and physical health.
Conversely, certain actions should be avoided:
- Vacating the home before the divorce is final without consulting a lawyer.
- Concealing money or assets.
- Expecting the lawyer to handle everything.
- Stopping payments on the spouse’s health and car insurance.
- Starting a new romantic relationship before the divorce is finalized.
Initiating a Divorce in Arizona
A divorce in Arizona begins with filing a Petition for Dissolution of Marriage. This document outlines necessary facts and lets the court know the petitioner’s requests regarding Child Custody, Property Division, and Support. Several pleadings, such as Notice of Appearance, Family Court Cover Sheet, Sensitive Data Sheet, Summons, and Notice of Right to Convert Health Insurance, must accompany the petition.
Service of Divorce Petition
Once filed, the divorce petition and initial pleadings must be served to the spouse, either by a process server or via certified mail. Cantor Law Group ensures proper service, especially in complicated situations like spouses living out of state or actively avoiding service.
Response and Legal Deadlines
The served spouse has 20 calendar days to respond if within Arizona and 30 days if outside the state. Adhering to these deadlines is crucial, and Cantor Law Group’s lawyers are well-versed in managing these requirements to protect their clients’ rights.
Community Property and Cooling-Off Period
Arizona follows Community Property principles, meaning each spouse has equal ownership of property acquired during the marriage. These principles cease when a divorce petition is filed and served. Additionally, Arizona law mandates a 60-day cooling-off period before a divorce decree can be issued, allowing for the resolution of all outstanding issues.
Default Judgment and Preliminary Injunction
If no response is filed, a Default Judgment can be requested, granting the petitioner’s requests without the other spouse’s input. A Preliminary Injunction is issued to prevent certain actions, such as transferring property or removing children from Arizona, ensuring both parties adhere to fair practices during the divorce process.
Discovery and Disclosure
During a Chandler divorce, Discovery and Disclosure stages involve exchanging critical financial and personal information. This ensures transparency and informed decisions on asset division, Child Custody, and support arrangements. Cantor Law Group’s attorneys use various tools, including interrogatories, depositions, subpoenas, and requests for production or admissions, to gather necessary information.
High-Net Worth and Hidden Assets
High-net-worth cases require specialized knowledge and may involve business valuations, executive compensation plans, and forensic accounting. Cantor Law Group is adept at tracing assets and addressing issues of hidden assets and marital waste, ensuring a fair division of property.
Resolution Management Conference (RMC)
An RMC is an organizational hearing with the judge to outline settlement positions and discuss contested issues. Temporary Orders can also be issued during the divorce process, addressing interim needs like asset division, Child Custody, and support arrangements.
Conclusion
Navigating a divorce in Chandler, Arizona, requires specialized legal expertise, especially given the complexities of family law. Cantor Law Group, with its Board-Certified Specialists and extensive experience, provides the necessary guidance and representation to ensure clients’ rights and interests are protected throughout the divorce process. Whether dealing with straightforward or high-stakes cases, their comprehensive approach and dedication to client success make them a top choice for family law representation in Arizona.