Divorce & Annulment

questions & answers

Question: I just received a summons from my spouse for a court date for divorce but I have already filled and received a court date prior to that. Is this possible?

Answer: Sometimes, when a spouse is served with a petition for dissolution of marriage, instead of filing a response, that spouse files his or her own petition.  The solution is to consolidate the two cases.  You need to file a motion to consolidate the cases.  It would be a good idea to discuss your case with a lawyer and get advice on the best way to do this.  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 offers a one hour consult with an 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.