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Flat-Rate Divorce vs. Hourly Attorneys: What Arizona Families Need to Know

Divorce is already stressful, and for many Arizona families, the uncertainty around legal fees makes the process even harder. Traditional family law firms charge hourly rates, require large retainers, and bill for every email, phone call, and document review. Costs can climb quickly, even when a case is relatively simple.

But not all divorces require expensive, open-ended billing. When a couple agrees on most issues and the case is straightforward, a flat-rate divorce provides a transparent, predictable, and affordable alternative.

Here’s what Arizona spouses should know about choosing a flat-fee divorce over standard hourly representation, and why Modern Law’s full-service package is designed for real people, real budgets, and real peace of mind.

Hourly Divorce Attorneys in Arizona

Traditional divorce representation typically involves:

  • A retainer deposit (often $5,000–$10,000)

  • Hourly fees for each task

  • Additional charges for filings, service, communications, and court time

  • Bills that fluctuate depending on conflict

Hourly billing is necessary for high-conflict, complex, or unpredictable cases. But the downside is obvious: you never truly know what the final bill will be.

This billing model also places pressure on clients to monitor costs instead of focusing on rebuilding their lives.

How Flat-Rate Divorce Works

A flat-rate divorce eliminates uncertainty. You pay one clear price, and the legal work from filing to final decree is included.

Modern Law’s simple divorce package is designed exactly for this scenario. If your case is uncontested, straightforward, and both spouses agree on major issues, you get:

  • Full representation

  • No hourly billing

  • No hidden fees

  • A clear timeline

  • A predictable outcome

This makes the process accessible for families who want reliable legal support without unpredictable cost.

What’s Included in a “Simple Divorce” at Modern Law

Unlike limited-scope or DIY services, Modern Law offers full attorney representation, not just paperwork help. Your attorney handles the entire case from start to finish in under three months.

1. Initial Consultation & Case Setup

You meet with an attorney who reviews your goals, explains your rights, and builds a personalized plan.

2. Court Filings & Service

We prepare, file, and serve all required Arizona Superior Court documents correctly and on time.

3. Financial Disclosure Requirements

Simple divorces still require Rule 49 disclosures and the Affidavit of Financial Information. We help you:

  • Complete all required financial forms
  • Gather documents
  • Exchange disclosures
  • Resolve any remaining financial questions

4. Settlement Documents

We draft a detailed Consent Decree, including:

  • Property and debt division
  • Spousal maintenance
  • Parenting plan and legal decision-making (if applicable)
  • Child support agreements

5. Court Tracking & Hearings

Most simple divorces finalize without going to court. But if a hearing is required, your attorney appears for you.

6. Final Steps

We deliver your signed Decree and help with any follow-up, such as:

  • Name changes
  • Title transfers
  • Account updates

This is a fully managed legal experience, clear, affordable, and designed to keep you supported every step of the way.

When Flat-Rate Pricing Is the Better Choice

This option is ideal if:

  • You and your spouse agree on most issues

  • You have simple property and finances

  • You want a divorce completed within about three months

  • You want full legal representation without unpredictable fees

  • You want to avoid court appearances whenever possible

Starting prices:

  • $3,000, Uncontested divorce with no children

  • $3,500, Uncontested divorce with children

This includes every step from filing to final decree.

When You May Still Need Hourly Representation

Hourly billing may be necessary if your case involves:

  • Major disputes over custody or parenting time

  • High-conflict communication between spouses

  • Complex assets (businesses, retirement accounts, real estate portfolios)

  • Hidden assets or financial misconduct

  • Domestic violence

  • Contested spousal maintenance

In these situations, litigation can become unpredictable, and hourly representation gives your attorney flexibility to dedicate time where the case requires it.

Modern Law provides both flexible unbundled services and full litigation support when needed. But for simple cases, the flat-rate option is often the most cost-effective path.

Why Arizona Families Choose Flat-Rate Divorce at Modern Law

Modern Law was founded on a mission to make family law more accessible, affordable, and practical for the people who need it most. The firm has grown across Arizona by offering innovative models like:

  • Flat-fee divorce

  • Unbundled services

  • Legal coaching

  • The Modern Divorce Navigator program

This commitment to flexible, client-focused help has shaped Modern Law into one of the most trusted family law firms in Arizona.

Thinking About a Flat-Rate Divorce? Start Here.

A simple divorce shouldn’t come with complicated costs. If you want a clear, affordable, attorney-managed process from start to finish, a flat-rate divorce may be the right fit. Schedule your consultation today and find out if your case qualifies.