Waiting for action...
Divorce is one of the most difficult experiences a person can go through—legally, financially, and emotionally. We understand it may be difficult to think about strategy, evidence, and the future while you process the end of your marriage. If your case involves allegations of domestic violence, you may need to consider additional ways to protect your family. Because we have focused exclusively on family law; we know our clients need more than legal knowledge, they need someone who will listen, explain the process honestly, and fight for their best possible outcome.
Whether your divorce is straightforward or deeply contested, we are here to guide you through every step with clarity and purpose.
Ready to take the first step? Contact Castle Law today for a consultation — call us at (480) 542-5885.
Arizona has specific laws governing how divorce works. Understanding these laws from the start helps you make informed decisions and avoid costly mistakes.
Yes. Arizona is a no-fault divorce state, meaning you do not need to prove wrongdoing by your spouse to file for divorce. The only grounds required are that the marriage is “irretrievably broken.” This simplifies the process but does not eliminate the complexity of dividing assets, determining custody, or addressing spousal support.
At least one spouse must have been a resident of Arizona for a minimum of 90 days before filing for divorce. We can help you confirm your eligibility and get the process started correctly from day one.
As a no-fault state, Arizona courts do not assign blame in the divorce process. Either spouse may file, and the court will proceed with dissolution once it determines the marriage is irretrievably broken and that the jurisdiction requirements are met. In cases involving a covenant marriage, different rules may apply.
Mediation is a collaborative process whereby the parties, with a mediator, will meet and try to reach agreements on the issues pending before the Court. Mediation can be faster, less adversarial, and cheaper than the normal litigation process. We help clients navigate mediation effectively so that agreements are fair, durable, and in their best interests. Here are some of the key issues that typically arise in mediation.
Mediation is a collaborative process whereby the parties, with a mediator, will meet and try to reach agreements on the issues pending before the Court. Mediation can be faster, less adversarial, and cheaper than the normal litigation process. We help clients navigate mediation effectively so that agreements are fair, durable, and in their best interests. Here are some of the key issues that typically arise in mediation.
Arizona is a community property state, which means assets and debts acquired during the marriage are generally split equitably. However, “equitably” is not always “equally”. We work with you to ensure you understand exactly what you are legally entitled to, what you may be legally owed, and what your legal options are before any agreement is signed.
When children are involved, custody and parenting time arrangements often become the most critical part of a divorce. We prioritize your children’s well-being while protecting your parental rights throughout the legal process. Courts look at the best interests of the children, and so do we.
Child support in Arizona is calculated based on both parents’ incomes, parenting time, healthcare costs, and childcare expenses. We make sure the numbers are right and that any support order reflects your actual circumstances.
Not every divorce involves spousal maintenance, but when it does, the stakes are significant. We help clients understand whether they may be entitled to — or responsible for — spousal support, and we advocate for a fair outcome either way.
There are a lot of family law attorneys in Maricopa County. Here are some of the things that sets us apart.
We have focused almost exclusively on family law and have for over 20 years. That means every attorney on our team knows this area of law deeply and is committed to providing you the best family law representation throughout the entire process. We have handled hundreds of cases ranging from amicable uncontested divorces to high-conflict litigation, and we bring that experience to every client we represent.
We give realistic, empathetic guidance that allows you to make informed decisions that may affect you and your family’s future. We will not promise outcomes we cannot deliver or push for conflict where it is not needed. But we will advocate hard for you when it matters.
Do not navigate divorce alone. Call Castle Law at (480) 542-5885 or reach out online to schedule your consultation.
Your situation is unique. The right next step depends on your specific circumstances — your assets, your children, your goals. The best thing you can do right now is talk to someone who knows Arizona family law and can give you an honest assessment. That is what we are here for.
An uncontested divorce means both parties agree on all major issues — property division, custody, support — and the court simply approves the agreement. A contested divorce involves disputes on one or more issues that a judge may ultimately need to resolve. Uncontested divorces are generally faster and less expensive, but not every situation qualifies.
The process begins with filing a Petition for Dissolution of Marriage in the Superior Court of the county where you or your spouse resides. The other spouse is then served with the petition. From there, the process depends on whether issues are contested. We handle the filings and procedures so you can focus on moving forward.
Arizona requires a minimum 60-day waiting period after the Petition is served before a divorce can be finalized. In practice, uncontested divorces may be resolved in a few months. Contested divorces can take significantly longer, depending on the complexity of the issues involved.
Yes and no. Some portions of the Decree will not be modifiable, and some areas are modifiable if there are Significant changes in circumstances — a job loss, relocation, changes in a children’s needs — may justify modifying certain parts of a divorce decree.
Our team handles post-decree modifications and can help you pursue changes when the time comes. Learn more on our Post-Decree Modification page.
Arizona is a community property state, which means marital property is generally divided equitably. However, not all property will be deemed community property. The characterization of property is determined at the time it is acquired and often the characterization of property is contested in a dissolution matter.
Property characterized as separate will remain separate and property characterized as community will be equitably divided, which may mean equally or a 50/50 split. We help clients understand exactly where they stand and make informed decisions about what legal grounds they may have to challenge the property characterization.
