How much does a legal separation cost in AZ?

The actual filing cost for a petition for legal separation is $349 according to Arizona Judicial Branch under Supreme Court Filing Fees. Response to petition or initial appearance in legal separation costs $279.

How long does a legal separation take in AZ?

In Arizona, getting a legal separation takes the same amount of time as getting a divorce. Under Arizona law, a legal separation cannot be finalized until 60 days after the Petitioner serves the Respondent. In mediation, the entire process can be completed within 2-4 months.

How do you get legally separated in Arizona?

Arizona law allows married couples to request a legal separation instead of a divorce. If you have been a resident of Arizona for at least 90-days, you can file a petition (request) for legal separation (with or without children), in the county where you reside.

How much does a legal separation cost?

The cost of legal separation is about $50,000 with average prices ranging from $1,000 to $100,000 in the US for 2020. Uncontested legal separation cases can settle for as low as $1,000, while highly contested separations involving matters like legal decision making and alimony can get up into the $100,000 range.

Is legal separation cheaper than divorce?

Since divorce and legal separation are pretty similar, they may cost about the same and take around the same amount of time to process.

Can a spouse kick you out of the house in Arizona?

Your spouse can’t legally kick you out of your home if you are included in either of these legal agreements. … Even if you or your spouse isn’t included on the lease or mortgage. Plus, Arizona is a community property state.

Does Arizona require separation before divorce?

Arizona does not require you to be separated from your spouse before you can get divorced. You do, however, have to wait for a period of time before your divorce is finalized.

Why get a legal separation instead of a divorce?

Separation can allow you to tackle various aspects of the divorce process, such as establishing a child custody arrangement and dividing marital property, more calmly. Without court fees and timelines hovering over their heads, spouses may find navigating these legal disputes significantly easier during separation.

How long does a legal separation last?

How long does legal separation last? You can be legally separated for however long you and your spouse think is best. However, if you plan to use your separation agreement as the basis for a divorce later, you and your spouse must have been living apart, under your separation agreement, for at least one year.

What are benefits of legal separation?

Some of the advantages of legally separating include:
  • Being able to retain your marital status for religious reasons.
  • Allowing a couple some time to live apart and see if divorce is actually what they want. …
  • Being able to continue insurance benefits on your spouse’s coverage. …
  • Retaining certain military benefits.

Does a husband have to support his wife during separation?

If you’re in the process of filing for divorce, you may be entitled to, or obligated to pay, temporary alimony while legally separated. In many instances, one spouse may be entitled to temporary support during the legal separation to pay for essential monthly expenses such as housing, food and other necessities.


What should you not do during separation?

Here are five key tips on what not to do during a separation.
  • Do not get into a relationship immediately. …
  • Never seek a separation without the consent of your partner. …
  • Don’t rush to sign divorce papers. …
  • Don’t bad mouth your partner in front of the kids. …
  • Never deny your partner the right to co-parenting.

How do you start a separation process?

Here’s how to file for legal separation.
  1. Step 1: Confirm Your State’s Residency Requirements. …
  2. Step 2: Move to File for Separation Petition. …
  3. Step 3: Move to File Legal Separation Agreement. …
  4. Step 4: Serve Your Spouse the Separation Agreement. …
  5. Step 5: Settle Unresolved Issues. …
  6. Step 6: Sign and Notarize the Agreement.

Why moving out is the biggest mistake in a divorce?

One of the most significant ways moving out can influence your divorce is when it comes to child custody. If you move out, it means you don’t spend as much time with your kids. Not only can this harm your relationship, but it can also damage your custody claim.

Can you be separated and live in the same house?

Answer: Yes, you can be separated from your spouse but both be living in the same house. Whatever the reason for choosing to remain separated in the same house, you should clearly define what the terms of your relationship are. … To file for divorce, you and your spouse need to have been separated for at least 12 months.