How to File for Divorce in Arizona Without a Lawyer
Complete step-by-step guide to filing for divorce in Arizona without an attorney. Save thousands in legal fees.
Overview: Filing for Divorce in Arizona Without a Lawyer
Arizona is a no-fault community property state requiring only 90 days residency. The state has a 60-day waiting period and relatively simple DIY divorce procedures, especially for covenant marriages.
Can You File Without a Lawyer in Arizona?
✓ Good Candidates for DIY Divorce:
- Both agree to divorce
- Agreement on property division
- No contested custody issues
- Limited community property
- Both willing to divide 50/50
⚠ Consider Hiring a Lawyer If:
- Covenant marriage (stricter requirements)
- Complex community property
- Business ownership
- Significant separate property claims
- Custody disputes
Step-by-Step: How to File for Divorce in Arizona
Meet 90-Day Residency
Either spouse must have lived in Arizona for at least 90 days.
- Arizona driver's license
- Voter registration
- Utility bills
Complete Petition
Fill out Petition for Dissolution of Marriage (without minor children or with minor children).
- Different forms for with/without children
- Available on Arizona court website
- Must state irretrievably broken
File with Superior Court
File petition with superior court in your county.
- Filing fee: $300-400
- Bring originals + copies
- Get assigned case number
Serve Spouse
Have spouse served by process server or accept service.
- Cannot serve yourself
- Acceptance of Service form available
- Must file proof of service
Wait 60 Days
Arizona requires 60-day waiting period from service date.
- Cannot finalize earlier
- Use time for settlement
- Complete required classes if children
Prepare Consent Decree
Draft Consent Decree of Dissolution if both agree.
- Must divide community property equally
- Address all debts
- Include parenting plan if children
Submit Final Documents
File consent decree and request for hearing/default.
- Some counties don't require hearing
- May need brief appearance
- Bring all documents
Receive Decree
Court issues Decree of Dissolution.
- Request certified copies
- Effective immediately
Required Forms for Arizona Divorce
Petition for Dissolution (DR2C/DR3C)
RequiredSummons (DR1)
RequiredPreliminary Injunction (DR4)
RequiredConsent Decree (DR5C/DR6C)
RequiredNote: Always use the most current forms from your state's court website. Forms may be updated periodically.
Cost Breakdown for Arizona DIY Divorce
💰 DIY Divorce
- Filing fee: $300-400
- Service fee: $50-100
- Misc costs: $25-$100
👔 With Attorney
Includes attorney fees, court costs, and filing fees for uncontested to contested cases
For detailed cost breakdown including attorney fees and scenarios: View Arizona Divorce Costs →
Common Pitfalls to Avoid
Not understanding community property (50/50 split)
Trying to finalize before 60 days
Incomplete parenting plan
Not addressing tax implications
Frequently Asked Questions About Arizona DIY Divorce
What is community property in Arizona?
Community property is all assets and debts acquired during marriage. Arizona divides community property 50/50. Separate property (owned before marriage or inherited) is not divided.
Can I file for divorce without a lawyer in Arizona?
Yes, Arizona provides comprehensive self-service forms and instructions. Many courts have self-help centers offering free assistance.
What is a covenant marriage in Arizona?
Arizona offers covenant marriages which require premarital counseling and have limited grounds for divorce. Covenant marriage divorce requires proof of specific fault grounds or 2-year separation.
Need Professional Help?
While DIY divorce can save money in Arizona, consulting with an attorney can help you understand your rights and avoid costly mistakes.