questions & answers

Question: We live in Mohave County. I want to move back to PA without my husband. Do I file for a legal separation or file for divorce? We own a home in both our names. The car is in my name first but I would not be able to afford it. We both get SS and he has a pension.

Answer: Whether you file for legal separation or dissolution of the marriage depends entirely on your personal circumstances and finances.  People tend to choose legal separation when there is a religious or strong personal reason not to divorce.  You need to discuss your situation with an attorney.  There are 3 programs in Arizona that you can use to get some inexpensive legal advice and guidance.  One is the Modest Means Program.  If you are financially qualified for the program, for a $75 fee, Modest Means  will arrange a one hour consult with an experienced attorney.  If you need additional help and the attorney agrees to take your case, the fee charged will not exceed $75 per hour.  The telephone number is (866)637-5341.  Both the Maricopa and Pima County Bar Associations have lawyer referral programs that offer a 30 minute consult with an experienced attorney.  Maricopa County's Lawyer Referral Service offers a 30 minute consult for a fee of $40.  The telephone number is (602) 257-4434.  Pima County's Lawyer Referral Service offers a 30 minute consultation for a fee of $35.  The telephone number is (520) 623-4625. If you do  not have sufficient money to pay for a reduced fee consult, you can go elsewhere on this website and apply to see if you qualify for a free lawyer.  Go to http://www.azlawhelp.org/accesstojustice.cfm