We help clients across Arizona make informed decisions and protect what matters most. Whether you’re initiating divorce proceedings, responding to a petition, or navigating child custody, we’re here to walk with you every step of the way.
Arizona Divorce Laws: What You Need to Know
Arizona is a no-fault divorce state, which means you don’t need to prove wrongdoing to end your marriage. You simply need to state that the marriage is “irretrievably broken.” As a result, divorce in Mesa focuses less on blame and more on fair division and the best interests of any children involved.
Under Arizona law (A.R.S. § 25-312), either spouse can file for divorce, and there’s a 60-day waiting period from the date the divorce papers are served before the divorce can be finalized. That timeframe can be longer if there are disagreements about property, children, or support.
Our Mesa Divorce Attorney from our law firm helps clients with both uncontested and contested divorces. In uncontested cases, both parties agree on major issues. In contested divorces, we step in to resolve disputes over parenting time, financial support, and asset division—either through negotiation, mediation, or courtroom advocacy.
Community Property and Division of Assets in Mesa
Arizona follows a community property model, meaning both spouses are considered equal owners of all property and debt acquired during the marriage. This includes income, homes, vehicles, investments, and even business interests. At the time of divorce, these assets are typically divided 50/50, though some exceptions apply.
Our job as your Mesa divorce lawyer is to help you:
- Identify all marital and separate assets
- Ensure accurate valuations of property and debts
- Protect your interest in homes, retirement accounts, and shared businesses
- Strategize for property division that meets your long-term financial goals
For example, a spouse who owned a home before the marriage might argue that the house is separate property. But if marital funds were used to pay the mortgage or make improvements, that home may have partially become community property. These are complex issues, and our legal team helps clients present clear evidence and negotiate equitable outcomes.
Spousal Maintenance: Who Pays and How Much?
Spousal maintenance (also known as alimony) is not guaranteed in Arizona. Courts evaluate several factors under A.R.S. § 25-319 to determine whether maintenance is appropriate, such as:
- The length of the marriage
- Each spouse’s earning ability
- The standard of living established during the marriage
- Whether one spouse supported the other’s education or career
- The age and health of both spouses
In many cases, maintenance is temporary, intended to help one spouse regain financial stability. In longer marriages or where there is a significant income disparity, the court may award long-term or even permanent spousal maintenance.
Our Mesa Divorce Attorney work closely with clients to present accurate financial data and fair arguments, whether we’re helping you pursue support or defending against an unreasonable claim.
Child Custody and Parenting Time in Arizona
When children are involved, the stakes are higher, and the legal process becomes more nuanced.
Arizona no longer uses the term “custody.” Instead, the courts refer to “legal decision-making authority” and “parenting time.” Legal decision-making refers to the process by which individuals determine who has the authority to make significant choices about a child’s education, health, and religious upbringing. Parenting time refers to the schedule for when the child is with each parent.
Under A.R.S. § 25-403, the court evaluates several factors to determine the best interest of the child, including:
- The child’s relationship with each parent
- The physical and emotional health of all parties
- Each parent’s willingness to foster a relationship with the other parent
- History of domestic violence or substance abuse
- The child’s adjustment to home, school, and community
In some cases, parents can collaborate to create a parenting plan that meets their family’s specific needs. In other words, we help our clients assert their rights in court and ensure their voice is heard.
As a Mesa divorce law firm, we’ve seen firsthand how emotionally charged custody battles can become. Our role is to guide you toward a resolution that honors your relationship with your children while keeping them safe and supported.
Trusted Legal Help Is Just a Call Away
Schedule your free consultation and let our experienced attorneys guide you with clarity, compassion, and confidence.
Child Support Guidelines in Mesa
Arizona has standardized child support guidelines (based on A.R.S. § 25-320) that take into account each parent’s income, the number of children, the time spent with each parent, and additional costs such as health insurance or childcare.
The Arizona Child Support Calculator, provided by the Arizona Department of Economic Security, is a valuable tool for estimating payments. But even with guidelines in place, disputes over income reporting, expenses, and modifications are common.
We help ensure that your child support order is fair, accurately reflects your actual financial circumstances, and complies with Arizona law. Whether you’re requesting support or being asked to pay for it, we can represent your interests and help avoid costly mistakes.
High-Conflict and High-Asset Divorces
Some divorces involve more than just emotional tension—they involve significant financial assets, business ownership, or complex custody arrangements. If you or your spouse owns a business, holds substantial investments, or manages family trusts, your divorce will likely involve forensic accountants, financial experts, and asset tracing.
High-conflict divorces may also involve restraining orders, allegations of parental alienation, or a need for supervised visitation. We’ve handled these tough cases before, and we know how to build a strong case while protecting our clients’ privacy and peace of mind.
At Nye Family Law, we approach high-stakes divorces with care, precision, and strategy. We don’t escalate conflict unnecessarily, but we don’t back down when our clients’ futures are at stake.
Modifications and Enforcement After Divorce
Sometimes, life changes after a divorce decree is issued. A parent may relocate for a job, experience a loss of income, or face health challenges. Arizona law allows for post-divorce modifications if there’s a significant and ongoing change in circumstances.
Common modifications include:
- Adjusting parenting time schedules
- Changing legal decision-making authority
- Increasing or decreasing child support
- Terminating or modifying spousal maintenance
Our team can assist you in petitioning the court for these changes or defending against unfair requests. We also help with enforcement actions if a former spouse fails to comply with court orders regarding support or parenting time.
Emotional and Practical Preparation
Here’s what we recommend:
- Work with a therapist or counselor
- Build a financial plan for post-divorce life
- Communicate with children in age-appropriate ways
- Stay off social media when emotions run high
- Surround yourself with supportive people
No one comes out of a divorce unchanged, but you can come out stronger, with the right team at your side.
Why Choose Mesa Divorce Attorney from Nye Family Law?
We aren’t just another Mesa divorce law firm—we’re part of the Mesa community.
Our clients come to us during some of the most difficult times in their lives. Our Mesa Divorce Attorney responds with clarity, compassion, and commitment. Every case we take is personal. We don’t use templates, and we don’t treat people like case numbers. We listen. We advise. We advocate.
Whether your case requires skilled negotiation, thoughtful mediation, or assertive courtroom litigation, we’re equipped to help you protect what matters most.
FAQs – Mesa Divorce Attorney
How long does a divorce take in Mesa, Arizona?
At minimum, there’s a mandatory 60-day waiting period after serving the divorce petition. However, most divorces take several months, depending on the complexity of the issues and the willingness of both parties to cooperate.
Can we get a divorce if we both agree on all the terms?
Yes, if both spouses agree on all issues, including child custody, property division, and support, you may proceed with an uncontested divorce. This process is usually faster, less expensive, and less stressful.
What if my spouse lives in another state?
As long as one spouse has lived in Arizona for at least 90 days, you can file for divorce in Mesa. Your spouse will be served the divorce papers, regardless of their current residence.
What’s the difference between legal separation and divorce?
Legal separation allows couples to live apart and divide assets and responsibilities without ending the marriage. Some people choose this for religious, financial, or health insurance reasons. We can help you determine which option best suits your needs.
How do I get started with a Mesa Divorce Attorney?
Call our office or submit a contact form to schedule a consultation. We’ll review your situation, explain your rights, and help you decide the next best step.
Let’s Talk About Your Next Step
If you’re considering divorce in Mesa—or if you’ve been served and don’t know what to do next—let’s talk.
At Nye Family Law, we offer confidential consultations where you can ask questions, learn your options, and decide how to move forward. There’s no pressure—just honest advice and professional guidance.
You don’t have to face this alone. Let us help you build a better future.
