Board-Certified Family Law Specialization

There are nearly 19,000 attorneys in Arizona who are eligible to practice Law.  As of the start of 2026, the State Bar of Arizona Board of Legal Specialization listed only 75 Certified Family Law Specialists in the whole State.  This means that approximately 3 out of every 1,000 lawyers in Arizona are Board-Certified Specialists in Family Law. DM Cantor Family Law Practice has five (5) Board-Certified Family Law Specialists and one (1) Board-Certified Criminal Law Specialist to handle your Divorce or Child Custody case, and any potential Criminal Allegations which may be involved.

Divorce cases in Scottsdale, AZ, can range from straightforward matters such as Alimony to highly complex situations like Business Owner Divorce. Because of this, it is critical to have legal representation from an experienced Scottsdale Divorce Lawyer. At DM Cantor’s Family Law Practice (currently known as Cantor Law Group), our attorneys understand the nuances of Arizona Divorce law, the different types of Divorce, and the specific legal grounds that may apply in your case.

The Best Scottsdale Divorce Lawyer Team in Arizona

When choosing the best Family Law Firm to handle your Divorce in Scottsdale, Arizona, two key factors should guide your decision: the firm’s experience and the leadership behind it.

Cantor Law Group (now called DM Cantor Family Law Practice), founded more than 25 years ago as a companion firm to DM Cantor Criminal Law Practice (which focuses exclusively on Criminal Defense), has become one of Arizona’s premier Family Law firms. Our Family Law Team represents clients in Divorce, Child Custody, and Juvenile Family Law matters throughout the state. In addition to David Cantor’s distinction as a Board-Certified Criminal Law Specialist, the firm is home to five (5) Board-Certified Family Law Specialists, each ready to provide the highest level of representation in your case.

Experience is only the beginning. The next step is evaluating results. At DM Cantor’s Family Law Practice (currently known as Cantor Law Group), we have represented a wide range of clients—from everyday individuals to professional athletes—handling cases that include high-asset divorces involving tens of millions of dollars. Our attorneys have also been appointed to serve on respected Legal Boards across Arizona and regularly deliver presentations at Continuing Legal Education (CLE) seminars, reflecting their leadership and recognition within the legal community.

If you are seeking an experienced Scottsdale Family Law or Divorce Attorney to guide you through your Divorce paperwork and protect your future, contact DM Cantor’s Family Law Practice (currently known as Cantor Law Group) today. Speak directly with a Board-Certified Scottsdale Divorce Lawyer and put Arizona’s top Family Law team on your side.

The Divorce Process in Scottsdale

What Is a Divorce in Arizona?

Ending a marriage is a life-changing decision, and navigating the legal process can feel overwhelming. Gaining a clear understanding of how Divorce works in Arizona can help you move forward with greater confidence and peace of mind.

In Arizona, marriage is a legal contract governed by Title 25 of the Arizona Revised Statutes. These laws regulate critical aspects of Family Law, including:

• Child Custody (legal decision-making and parenting time)
• Division of Property and Debt
• Child Support
• Spousal Maintenance (commonly referred to as Alimony)

At its foundation, Divorce is the legal dissolution of the marriage contract. It formally ends the marital relationship and addresses several important matters, including:

• Child Custody and Parenting Arrangements
  Establishing where the children will live and how parenting responsibilities will be shared.
• Financial Settlements
  Dividing assets and debts accumulated during the marriage and determining obligations for Child Support or Spousal Maintenance, if applicable.
• Legal Right to Remarry
  Once the Divorce is finalized, each party is free to remarry and begin a new chapter in life.

Understanding these elements is the first step toward protecting your rights and securing a fair outcome. An experienced Scottsdale Divorce Lawyer can guide you through every stage of the process.

Legal Separation vs. Divorce in Arizona

The key difference between Legal Separation and Divorce is that Legal Separation does not legally end the marriage. This distinction can be important depending on your personal, financial, or religious circumstances.

Some of the most common reasons individuals choose Legal Separation instead of Divorce include:

• Religious or moral beliefs that discourage divorce
• Maintaining health insurance coverage through a spouse’s employer
• Testing a trial separation while considering reconciliation
• Preserving eligibility for Social Security benefits under a spouse’s record, especially if the marriage duration is nearing the 10-year requirement

In addition to these factors, Legal Separation does not require Arizona’s 90-day residency rule that applies to Divorce. Instead, only one party needs to be domiciled in Arizona at the time the action begins.

Despite their differences, Legal Separation and Divorce share many similarities. In both processes, the court will resolve issues related to:

• Child Custody and Parenting Time
• Child Support
• Spousal Maintenance (Alimony)
• Division of Marital Assets and Debts

In a Legal Separation, although the marriage remains legally intact, the couple will live apart, requiring formal arrangements for childcare and financial support.

At DM Cantor’s Family Law Practice (currently known as Cantor Law Group), our Scottsdale Family Law Attorneys have extensive experience guiding clients through both Divorce and Legal Separation cases across Arizona. Whether you’re seeking a temporary separation or a full dissolution of marriage, our team is equipped to help you navigate the Arizona Family Court system effectively.

Covenant Marriage and Divorce

A Covenant Marriage in Arizona requires couples to meet additional conditions before the marriage is legally recognized. If the couple later decides to divorce, the specific requirements of a covenant marriage make the process more complicated than for those in a traditional marriage. Read More.

What Is the Difference Between Contested and Uncontested Divorce in Scottsdale?

A Divorce is considered “Uncontested” when both spouses agree on all aspects of the case, including matters related to children, division of assets, Spousal Maintenance, and Child Support. In such cases, the Court enters a Consent Decree. A Default Judgment may also qualify as an Uncontested Divorce if one spouse does not dispute any of the requests made by the other.

If even one issue remains unresolved between the spouses, the Divorce becomes “Contested.”

What Is Collaborative Divorce?

Collaborative Divorce is a distinct form of Divorce that has recently gained traction in Scottsdale, Arizona. It follows a process that is substantially different from traditional Divorce proceedings. Read more.

What Is an Annulment?

An Annulment is a legal determination by the court that the marriage was never valid to begin with—effectively rendering it null and void. Read more.

How Do I Prepare for a Divorce?

Things You Should Do When Preparing for Divorce:

• Contact a Scottsdale Divorce Lawyer at DM Cantor’s Family Law Practice (currently known as Cantor Law Group) right away.
• Make your social media accounts private and update all online account passwords.
• Collect all financial records and documentation.
• Create a complete list of your assets and debts, including personal property.
• Take care of your mental and physical health.
• Build a support network of family and close friends to help you through the process.
• Always conduct yourself with integrity.
• Strive for a cooperative and respectful divorce with your spouse whenever possible.

Things You Should NOT Do When Preparing for Divorce:

• Do not move out of your home before the divorce is finalized without first speaking with your attorney.
• Do not hide assets or money.
• Do not assume your attorney will handle everything—stay actively involved.
• Do not stop paying for your spouse’s health or vehicle insurance.
• Do not enter a new romantic relationship before the divorce is complete.

DM Cantor’s Family Law Practice (currently known as Cantor Law Group) is a trusted team of Scottsdale Family Law Attorneys with the experience to assist you in all aspects of Family Law—from Alimony and Child-related matters to High-Asset Divorces and Complex Business Valuations.

How Is a Divorce Initiated in Arizona?

In Scottsdale, every Divorce begins with the filing of a Petition for Dissolution of Marriage. This is the most critical document in the initial filing, as it outlines the essential facts of your Divorce and informs the court of the relief you are seeking.

Within this Petition, you can specify:

• The custody arrangement you’re requesting for your children
• How you want property and assets divided
• Whether you or your spouse should receive Child Support or Spousal Maintenance

The Petition should present a clear picture of the outcome you are requesting in the Divorce. It’s important to ask for everything you want upfront—even if you are willing to compromise later—because if your spouse fails to respond and a Default Judgment is entered, the court can award exactly what you requested in the original Petition.

How Does Spousal Maintenance (Alimony) Work?

When a couple files for Divorce in Arizona, either spouse may ask the Court to issue an order for Spousal Maintenance, also known as Spousal Support or Alimony. However, it’s important to note that Spousal Maintenance is not automatically granted in every Divorce where it is requested. Read More.

How Does Child Custody or Visitation Work?

In Arizona, Child Custody is divided into two main components:

• Legal Decision-Making Authority
• Parenting Time

The Court may award Joint or Sole Legal Decision-Making, depending on the circumstances. When making custody determinations, the Court considers factors such as:

• Orders of Protection involving substance abuse or mental health concerns
• Input from professionals like Court-Appointed Special Advocates (CAAs) or Comprehensive Family Evaluators (CFEs)

A Parenting Plan is often established to outline responsibilities, and other key issues such as Relocation, Paternity, Father’s Rights, and Modifications may also be addressed.

How Does Child Support Work?

For Child Support, the Court evaluates both parents’ income using Arizona’s Child Support Guidelines and the state’s Support Calculator. The Court also considers:

• Child-related expenses
• Child tax credits
• Potential deviations or modifications to standard support amounts

Click the link below for full details on Child Custody and Child Support in Arizona.

Click Here to Learn More About Child Custody

How Does Asset and Property Division Work?

At the end of a marriage, Asset and Property Division must be addressed. This process may involve determining:

• Community Property vs. Separate Property
• Real Property matters
• Community Liens and the formulas used to calculate their apportionment
• Retirement Accounts and Pensions

These issues often carry significant tax implications, making it essential to have an experienced and knowledgeable Scottsdale Divorce Lawyer or Scottsdale Family Law Attorney on your side. The team at DM Cantor’s Family Law Practice (currently known as Cantor Law Group) can also coordinate with a qualified CPA or Tax Advisor, if needed, to ensure proper handling of all financial matters.

Click Here to Learn More About Asset Division

Required Information in a Divorce or Dissolution Petition

According to A.R.S. § 25-312 and A.R.S. § 25-314, a Divorce Petition in Arizona must include the following information:

• A statement confirming that one of the parties was domiciled in Arizona or stationed in Arizona as a member of the armed services at the time the case was initiated, and that the domicile or military presence was maintained for at least 90 days prior to filing the Petition. A domicile refers to the place a person considers their permanent home, not just a temporary residence. It remains their domicile until they intentionally establish a new one elsewhere.
• A declaration that no Petition has been filed requesting Conciliation Court services under A.R.S. § 25-381.09. The purpose of the Conciliation Court is to help preserve the marriage through dispute resolution or to encourage an amicable settlement to avoid further litigation.
• A statement confirming that the marriage is “irretrievably broken,” meaning there is no chance of reconciliation between the spouses.
• If it is a Covenant Marriage, the Petition must state one of the allowable grounds under A.R.S. § 25-903. Covenant Marriage requires premarital counseling and limits the grounds on which a divorce can later be filed.
• The birth date, occupation, address of each party, and the duration of their domicile in Arizona.
• The date and location of the marriage ceremony.
• The names, birth dates, and addresses of all living children, whether biological or adopted, who are common to both parties. It must also state whether the wife is currently pregnant.
• Information on any existing agreements between the parties regarding spousal maintenance, legal decision-making, and parenting time.
• A clear description of the relief sought—in other words, what the filing party is asking the court to award, including specific requests for legal decision-making, parenting time, support, or other matters.

Arizona applies a “notice pleading” standard, which means that the Divorce Petition only needs to state the basic legal grounds for divorce and provide enough factual information to support the claim. Further details can be developed later through the Discovery process.

The Scottsdale Attorneys at DM Cantor’s Family Law Practice (currently known as Cantor Law Group) bring the legal experience needed to address issues such as sole custody, preparing divorce papers, and other Family Law matters. A skilled Arizona Divorce Attorney from our team understands the Arizona Supreme Court system and is ready to help guide your family through this difficult time.

Besides the Petition, What Other Pleadings Are Required to Initiate a Divorce Action?

When filing for Divorce in Arizona, certain additional pleadings must accompany the Petition for Dissolution of Marriage. Failing to submit all required documents correctly may delay your case or jeopardize important legal rights. The required pleadings include:

• Notice of Appearance: This notifies the Court of your Scottsdale Divorce Lawyer’s involvement, their law firm, and the appropriate address to send all court-related notices and documents.
• Family Court Cover Sheet: This form allows the Court to enter your case into its computer system and must be placed on top of your filing packet. The Clerk will require all fields to be filled out properly to ensure complete and accurate court records. Be sure to keep your contact information, especially your address, up to date with the Court to receive important notices and orders.
• Sensitive Data Sheet: This document provides the Court with relevant but private information. Be cautious—this may become part of the public record. Avoid including full Social Security numbers or complete account numbers to reduce the risk of identity theft.
• Summons: The Summons formally informs the Respondent (your spouse) that a Divorce case has been filed and outlines how long they have to respond. It must be signed and embossed by the Clerk of Court at the time of filing.
• Notice of Right to Convert Health Insurance: This notice explains how health insurance may be affected after the Divorce. It details your and your children’s eligibility for continued coverage, exclusions, pre-existing conditions, and limitations. This document must be served on the other party and is generally not required in cases of Legal Separation—though checking with your insurance provider is advised.
• Notice Regarding Creditors: Required in all Divorce and Legal Separation cases, this notice explains that both parties are responsible for community debts and encourages you to communicate with your creditors regarding how your separation may impact those obligations.
• Preliminary Injunction: This court order imposes automatic restrictions on both spouses once the Divorce or Legal Separation papers are served. These rules are mandatory for all parties and must not be violated.
• Order and Notice to Attend Parent Information Program: This form requires both parents to attend a Parent Information Class, which is mandatory in cases involving children. Parents attend separately and may choose their own time and location. Upon completion, the instructor will provide a certificate that must be filed with the Court. No Custody orders can be issued until this certificate is on file. Be sure to make copies of the form for yourself and your spouse before filing it.

The Scottsdale Attorneys at DM Cantor’s Family Law Practice (currently known as Cantor Law Group) ensure that every document is filed correctly and on time, protecting your rights throughout the Divorce process.

If you are unable to attend the Parent Information Class due to military duty, you may request an exemption by filing a Motion to Request Exemption from Parent Information Class with the Court. Approval of this request is at the discretion of the Judge, who will determine whether or not to grant the exemption.

Service of Divorce (Dissolution) Petition

Once a Divorce Petition is filed, your spouse must be formally served with the Petition and other Initial Divorce Pleadings. Service can be completed by hiring a Process Server, who will personally deliver the documents to your spouse and then file an Affidavit of Service with the Court. Alternatively, service may be completed via Certified Mail with a return receipt.

Serving these documents can become challenging, particularly if your spouse lives out of state, resides in another country, or is intentionally avoiding service. A skilled Scottsdale Divorce Lawyer at DM Cantor’s Family Law Practice (currently known as Cantor Law Group) can help locate your spouse and ensure proper service in compliance with Arizona law.

Can I Hand the Documents to My Spouse?

The short answer is no. However, your spouse may voluntarily sign an Acceptance of Service, which can then be filed with the Court. Signing this form does not mean your spouse agrees with the contents of your Petition—it simply acknowledges that they have received the Divorce Petition and initial pleadings.

Response Deadline

Once your spouse has been properly served:

• If served within Arizona, they have 20 calendar days to file a written Response.
• If served outside Arizona, they have 30 calendar days to respond.

Under the Arizona Rules of Family Law Procedure, deadlines may be expressed in either calendar days or judicial days:

• Calendar days include all days—weekends and holidays.
• Judicial days include only business days—excluding weekends and court holidays.
• For deadlines less than 11 days, count judicial days.
• For deadlines 11 days or more, count calendar days.
• Do not count the day of service. For example, if your spouse is served on April 4th in Arizona, the 20-day deadline begins April 5th, making the response due by April 25th.

Understanding and adhering to these deadlines is critical in your Family Law case. DM Cantor’s Family Law Practice (currently known as Cantor Law Group)’s Arizona Divorce Attorneys are well-versed in these procedural requirements and will ensure your rights are fully protected.

Important: End of the Marital Community

Arizona is a Community Property state, meaning both spouses have equal ownership and control over property acquired during the marriage. According to A.R.S. § 25-211, “all property acquired by either husband or wife during the marriage is the community property of the husband and wife.”

The exceptions to this rule include:

• Property received as a gift, by devise, or by descent
• Income or assets earned after service of the Divorce Petition

These Community Property principles also apply to debts incurred by either spouse during the marriage.

The Community Property relationship ends once a Divorce Petition is filed and served on the other spouse.

How Quickly Can a Divorce Be Finalized? What Is the “Cooling Off Period”?

Under A.R.S. § 25-329, the Court cannot finalize a Divorce or hold a trial sooner than 60 days after the Divorce Petition has been served. In other words, the earliest possible date for finalizing a Divorce is 60 days after service.

A Divorce Decree is the final resolution of all issues in your Divorce. It confirms the agreement to be divorced and sets forth the final terms related to:

• Division of Assets and Debts
• Child Custody and Parenting Time
• Spousal Maintenance
• Child Support

What If No Response Is Filed?

If your spouse fails to file a Response, you may request that the Court enter a Default Judgment. A Default Judgment allows the Court to grant all of the relief you requested in your Divorce Petition, without input or opposition from your spouse.

There are strict requirements involved in the Default process:

1. Your Petition must be properly pleaded.
   The Court will generally not award anything that was not specifically requested in your original Petition.
2. You must file an Application and Affidavit for Default Judgment after the Response deadline has passed, and you must properly notify your spouse of the Default.
3. You must wait a 10-judicial-day period before the Court may enter a Default Judgment.

Once this 10-day period expires, your spouse is officially in Default and cannot undo it unless they prove that they were not properly served with the Petition and other Initial Pleadings.

After this period, depending on the complexity of your case, you may:

• Request the Court to enter a Default Judgment without a hearing, or
• Proceed to a Default Hearing where your Scottsdale Divorce Lawyer at DM Cantor’s Family Law Practice (currently known as Cantor Law Group) will present testimony to establish jurisdiction and support the relief requested. The Court will then enter a Default Decree, finalizing your Divorce.

Many are surprised to learn that a spouse can appear at the Default Hearing. While they cannot request their own relief at that stage, they can participate to help the Court determine whether your requests are fair and accurate.

For instance, if you claim that a jointly owned home is your Sole and Separate Property (when it is actually Community Property), your spouse can correct that misrepresentation during the hearing. The Court will then divide the property properly as Community Property.

Preliminary Injunction

When a Divorce is filed, the Court issues a Preliminary Injunction, which immediately applies to the filing party upon submission of the documents. It becomes effective for the other spouse either when they are formally served with the Injunction or once they become aware of its existence—whichever occurs first. This Injunction carries the full legal force of a Court order signed by a Judge.

Governed by A.R.S. § 25-315, the purpose of the Preliminary Injunction is to prohibit specific actions during the Divorce proceedings. It legally prevents either party from engaging in the following:

• Transferring, encumbering, concealing, selling, or otherwise disposing of any Joint, Common, or Community Property
• Molesting, harassing, disturbing the peace of, or committing an assault or battery against the other spouse or any natural or adopted children of the spouses
• Removing the children from Arizona without written consent from the other parent or permission from the Court
• Removing the other spouse or their children from existing health, dental, disability, or auto insurance policies
• Failing to maintain all insurance policies in full force and effect

There are limited exceptions to the restriction on disposing of property. A spouse may sell Joint, Common, or Community Property under the following conditions:

• The sale occurs in the ordinary course of business
• The sale is necessary to meet the basic needs of life
• The sale is used to pay court costs or reasonable attorney’s fees
• Both spouses provide written consent
• The Court grants permission for the sale

Violating the Preliminary Injunction can result in serious legal consequences, including arrest and prosecution for Interference with Judicial Proceedings, a misdemeanor offense. Arizona law allows law enforcement to arrest a violator without a warrant, regardless of whether the violation was witnessed by the officer.

Discovery / Disclosure

In a Scottsdale Divorce, a critical phase known as Discovery and Disclosure takes place with the assistance of your Scottsdale Divorce Lawyer. During this stage, both spouses are required to formally exchange detailed information regarding their finances, property, and other important matters relevant to the case. The goal is to ensure that both parties have the necessary facts to negotiate or litigate key issues, such as the division of assets and debts, Child Custody, Child Support, and Spousal Maintenance. This step is essential for a fair and transparent resolution.

Disclosure refers to specific information and documentation that each spouse is legally required to provide. Examples include:

• Income documentation (W-2s, pay stubs, tax returns)
• Bank statements for the six months preceding the filing of the Divorce Petition

Discovery, on the other hand, includes formal legal tools used to obtain additional information from the other party. This may involve:

• Requests for production of documents
• Interrogatories (written questions requiring written answers)
• Subpoenas to third parties or organizations for relevant records

Under Rule 49 of the Arizona Rules of Family Law Procedure, both spouses must disclose certain documents and answer questions relevant to the case. This duty is a “continuing obligation,” meaning each party must supplement or update disclosures as new information becomes available or circumstances change.

Required disclosures generally include:

• Tax returns for the last three years
• Current year pay stubs or income records
• Deeds, leases, and promissory notes
• Bank, savings, and investment account statements for the past six months
• Life, health, and disability insurance policies
• A detailed inventory of personal property, real estate, and debts
• Credit card statements and other debt records for the 11 months before filing
• Any existing Protective Orders
• Names of treatment providers for psychological, psychiatric, substance abuse, anger management, or domestic violence issues within the five years before filing
• The criminal history of the spouse or household members within ten years of filing
• Any Department of Child Safety (DCS) reports within the past ten years
• Child Support payment history

Navigating these Disclosure obligations can be complex and overwhelming. That’s why it’s essential to work with an experienced Scottsdale Divorce Attorney at DM Cantor’s Family Law Practice (currently known as Cantor Law Group), who can guide you through the process and ensure you remain in full compliance.

High-Net-Worth (High-Asset) Issues

High Net-Worth and High-Asset Divorce cases require highly specialized legal knowledge. These matters often involve Business Valuations and asset division, with a close examination of Executive Compensation Packages. These can include:

• Employee Stock Options
• Restricted Stock Units (RSUs)
• Employee Stock Purchase Plans
• Deferred Compensation Plans

An experienced DM Cantor’s Family Law Practice (currently known as Cantor Law Group) Attorney can assist with asset tracing, which may require working with a Forensic Accounting Expert to determine actual income, the value of high-end collectibles, cryptocurrency holdings, U.S. dollar conversions, and more.

Click Here to Learn More About High Net Worth Divorce

What If My Spouse Is Hiding Assets?

In many high-conflict Scottsdale Divorce cases, the issue of Hiding Assets may arise. This occurs when one spouse deliberately conceals or undervalues assets to avoid fair division during the Divorce. Tactics may include:

• Restricting access to joint accounts
• Withdrawing funds without notice
• Gradually depleting accounts over time
• Overstating debts or withholding billing statements to disguise spending habits

If such conduct is discovered, the Court can impose fines and penalties, and may also require the spouse who hid assets to pay the other party’s legal fees. In some situations, criminal charges such as Perjury or Contempt of Court may apply.

If you suspect your spouse is hiding assets, it is critical to work with a skilled Scottsdale Divorce Lawyer.

Click Here to Learn More About Hiding Assets

What About Marital Waste Issues?

Marital Waste Claims often center around the three A’s: Adultery, Alcohol, or Addiction. In some cases, addiction may involve compulsive shopping or gambling.

When a party successfully proves a claim of Marital Waste, the Court may award the innocent spouse reimbursement, either through direct compensation or by awarding them a greater share of the Community Property.

Click Here to Learn More About Marital Waste

Tools DM Cantor’s Family Law Practice (currently known as Cantor Law Group) Attorneys Use in the Discovery Process

During the Discovery Process, your DM Cantor’s Family Law Practice (currently known as Cantor Law Group) Scottsdale Divorce Lawyer has access to a wide range of legal tools, including:

• Interrogatories
• Depositions
• Subpoenas
• Requests for Production
• Requests for Admissions

In addition, your attorney can object to or seek protection from overly broad or inappropriate Discovery Requests, especially those that cause embarrassment, involve privileged information, or are irrelevant or excessive.

Click the link below to explore the full scope of Discovery Tools used by DM Cantor’s Family Law Practice (currently known as Cantor Law Group).

Tools Attorneys Use in the Discovery Process

Resolution Management Conference (RMC)

A Resolution Management Conference (RMC) is a procedural meeting with the assigned Judge to organize and manage the Divorce case. Under Rule 76 of the Arizona Rules of Family Law Procedure, each party must submit a Proposed Resolution Statement before the hearing.

No testimony or evidence is presented at an RMC, and the Court does not issue Orders on contested matters unless both parties are in agreement. However, the Court may order participation in services such as mediation or a parenting conference.

The Proposed Resolution Statement outlines each party’s settlement positions. Prior to the RMC, your attorney must “meet and confer” with the opposing attorney to:

• Identify any potential agreements
• Resolve any Discovery or Disclosure issues
• Discuss how to resolve remaining contested issues—either through mediation or trial

If any agreements are reached, they may be presented to the Judge during the RMC. The Judge will then:

• Swear in both parties
• Ask if they understand the terms
• Confirm that they consulted with their attorneys
• Ensure the agreements are voluntary and made without coercion
• If children are involved, ask if the terms are believed to be in the best interests of the children

Once confirmed, the Judge will place the agreement “on the record,” making it binding and enforceable. After that point, the agreement cannot be undone.

Temporary Orders Can Be Issued at Any Point During the Divorce Process

Temporary Orders are Court-issued directives that address specific issues while the Divorce case is pending. These Orders are intended to be interim solutions and typically remain in effect until the case reaches a final Trial or Settlement.

If the parties are unable to reach an agreement shortly after filing, it may become necessary to file a Motion for Temporary Orders. These Orders can cover a wide range of issues, such as:

• Division of financial accounts
• Exclusive use of the marital residence
• Responsibility for community debts
• Parenting Time and Custody arrangements
• Child Support and Spousal Maintenance
• Temporary awards of Attorney’s fees and costs

After a Motion for Temporary Orders is filed, the Court may either:

• Schedule a Temporary Orders Evidentiary Hearing, or
• Set a Resolution Management Conference to address the matters raised in the motion.

In Scottsdale, the Courts generally allow limited time for Temporary Orders hearings—typically 30 to 60 minutes, meaning each side may only have 15 to 30 minutes to present their arguments.

Mediation / Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR)

Mediation is a voluntary process designed to help parties resolve unresolved issues in a Divorce case without going to Trial. Read More.

Looking for expert Scottsdale Divorce Attorneys who can assist you with everything from Military Divorce to Same-Sex Divorce and answer all your legal questions? Schedule a free consultation with the DM Cantor’s Family Law Practice (currently known as Cantor Law Group) Family Law Practice today.

Trial

If you and your spouse cannot resolve all outstanding issues, the case will proceed to Trial. During the Trial, each side presents their position through opening and closing arguments, evidence, and testimony.

Click Here to Learn More About Divorce Trials

What We Do When We Represent You

When you choose DM Cantor’s Family Law Practice (currently known as Cantor Law Group) to represent you in your Scottsdale Divorce or Child Custody case, we are guided by our Core Purpose:
“We are here to help people navigate through the toughest times of their lives.”

In every Family Law matter we handle, we operate with three guiding principles:

1. Do Hard Work
2. Exhibit Excellent Trial Skills
3. Deliver High-Touch Client Service—the most important of all

Once you retain our firm, you will first meet with your Attorney’s Paralegal to thoroughly review the facts of your case and begin preparing your Affidavit of Financial Information.

Next, you’ll meet with your assigned Attorney to define your specific goals and develop a timeline to achieve them. Within a few business days, you’ll receive a Goals Letter summarizing your objectives. After confirming the contents, your case pleadings will be promptly filed with the Court.

Scottsdale Divorce Lawyer FAQs

During the Divorce process, many common questions arise, such as:

• Who should file first?
• Can I remain in my home?
• Am I required to change my name?

Click the link below to view a full list of FAQs and their answers:

Scottsdale Divorce Lawyer FAQs

Work With a DM Cantor’s Family Law Practice (currently known as Cantor Law Group) Scottsdale Divorce Lawyer Today

For a free consultation and case evaluation with one of our experienced Scottsdale Divorce and Family Law Attorneys, call our 24-hour Divorce Lawyers Hotline at (602) 254-8880, or click here for legal guidance on any Family Law matter.