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2017- 2026
Phoenix Divorce Lawyer FAQ
If you’re thinking about divorce or already in the middle of one, you probably have a lot of questions—and that’s completely normal. At Hirsch Talcott, we’ve helped hundreds of Phoenix residents navigate divorce with confidence, clarity, and compassion. We know this process can feel overwhelming, especially when you’re trying to make big life decisions in uncertain times. That’s why our divorce lawyers put together this list of frequently asked questions to help you feel more prepared. Fill out the form now for a free case evaluation.
This Phoenix divorce lawyer FAQ covers the most common questions we receive about Arizona divorce laws, custody, property division, alimony, and more. These answers are meant to give you a solid starting point—but nothing replaces personalized advice from an experienced attorney. When you’re ready, we’re here.
General Divorce Questions
How do I start the divorce process in Phoenix?
You begin by filing a Petition for Dissolution of Marriage in Maricopa County Superior Court. Our firm handles the paperwork for you.
Do I have to prove fault to get a divorce?
No. Arizona is a no-fault divorce state. You don’t need to prove wrongdoing—just that the marriage is irretrievably broken.
How long does a divorce take in Arizona?
There’s a 60-day waiting period after your spouse is served, but most cases take several months depending on complexity.
Do I need a lawyer if we agree on everything?
It’s still a good idea. We’ll review your agreement, file it properly, and ensure your rights are protected.
Child Custody & Support Questions
How does Arizona decide custody?
Courts consider the best interests of the child, including each parent’s relationship with the child, stability, and ability to co-parent.
What is legal decision-making?
It refers to the right to make major decisions about the child’s education, healthcare, and well-being. It can be joint or sole.
Can custody be changed after divorce?
Yes. Either parent can request a modification if there’s a significant change in circumstances.
How is child support calculated?
Arizona uses an income-based formula that includes both parents’ incomes, parenting time, health insurance, and childcare expenses.
Property, Alimony & Financial Questions
What’s community property?
Anything earned or acquired during the marriage—like income, real estate, or retirement accounts—is considered jointly owned and split equally.
Am I entitled to alimony?
It depends on several factors: the length of the marriage, income differences, age, health, and your ability to be self-sufficient.
Can I keep what I owned before marriage?
Usually yes. Separate property (pre-marriage assets or inheritances) generally remain yours unless commingled with marital property.
Response from the owner:Carrie, thank you so much for your 5-star review! We truly appreciate your support and are grateful you chose our team. It was a pleasure to represent you, and we’re honored by your trust.
Wishing you all the best, and thank you again for taking the time to share your support.
Chelsie Talcott
Phoenix’s Trusted Law Firm for Personal Injury and Family Law
Chelsie and her team were very professional and responsive any time I had questions concerns, or needed information for follow up. She was very thorough and transparent with the process and kept me up to date on the status of my case. I had some complexity in dealing with my private insurance which she was able to navigate through and get things resolved quickly. She was diligent in seeking what was justly due to me as her client and I was very pleased with the outcome. I highly recommend her representation and expertise!
Response from the owner:Thank you for sharing your experience and for your thoughtful recommendation. We’re so pleased to hear that you felt supported, informed, and confident throughout your case. Navigating insurance complications can be frustrating, and I’m glad we were able to resolve those issues efficiently while keeping you updated every step of the way.
It means a lot to know you were happy with the outcome and felt strongly represented throughout the process. We truly appreciate your trust in our team.
Chelsie Talcott
Phoenix’s Trusted Law Firm for Personal Injury and Family Law
Im am so happy with and grateful for the care and representation I received from Stephanie and her team. They were on top of every detail keeping me informed and directing me in all matters necessary for the completion of my case. Would definitely recommend them and hope I won't need to use them again but I know who im calling if I do! Thank you!
Response from the owner:Katelan, thank you for your thoughtful review. We’re so happy the team provided the care, communication, and support you needed throughout your case. Staying on top of every detail and keeping clients informed is something we take great pride in.
Your recommendation means so much to us, and we’re grateful for the trust you placed in our team.
Chelsie Talcott
Phoenix’s Trusted Law Firm for Personal Injury and Family Law
I came to Chelsie Talcott, at Hirsch Talcott, PLLC, stressed and unsure after a slip and fall accident.
From day one, Chelsie explained everything clearly, and handled negotiations with the insurance company. When the insurance company stalled, Chelsie pushed back and got results. I highly recommend her.
Chelsie kept me in the loop with status updates every step of the way. She is transparent and effective, showing a high level of professionalism with real empathy. She always answered my phone calls and replied to emails. Can’t recommend her enough".
Her staff is also very friendly and organized.
Response from the owner:R, Thank you for taking the time to share your experience with your slip and fall case. We know how stressful that situation can be, and I’m so glad we could provide clear guidance, handle the negotiations, and push forward to get the results you deserved.
It means a lot to hear that you felt informed, supported, and confident every step of the way. We truly appreciate your trust and your recommendation.
Chelsie Talcott
Phoenix’s Trusted Law Firm for Personal Injury and Family Law
After my accident I was hurting physically and financially, I then contacted Chelsie at HIRSCH TALCOTT, PLLC, and they were a pleasure to work with, they were very clear and professional every step of the way and made sure I understood all aspects of my case. Highly recommend!
Response from the owner:Rudy, we’re grateful you took the time to share your experience. We know how difficult things can feel after an accident, both physically and financially, and we’re glad we could bring clarity and support during that time.
It means a lot to hear that you felt informed and well taken care of every step of the way. Thank you for your trust and your recommendation.
Chelsie Talcott
Phoenix’s Trusted Law Firm for Personal Injury and Family Law
Fill out the form now for a free case evaluation.
How We Work for You
Divorce and child custody matters can be stressful for everyone involved. The stress of these matters makes it difficult to think clearly. Hiring an attorney allows the attorney to focus on the legal matters, while you focus on your family.
You send us your case
Getting started is simple. Share the your case details with us for a free case review, so we can assess and explore how we can help you.
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We build your case
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Our dedicated team gets to work immediately, collecting evidence, and handling all the paperwork to strengthen your claim.
We fight for your rights
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If we take your case, we pursue aggressively to secure the compensation and results you deserve, every step of the way.
