How to Divorce Without a Lawyer in Tucson, AZ (2025 Guide)

Divorcing without a lawyer in Tucson can be a smart, affordable option—especially if you and your spouse agree on most issues. Arizona law allows residents to represent themselves (“pro se divorce”), and Pima County offers clear procedures and standardized forms. With the right steps, many couples complete an uncontested divorce for hundreds, not thousands, of dollars.

This guide explains how to file for divorce without an attorney in Tucson, how long the process takes, what it costs, and the most common pitfalls to avoid.

1. Make Sure You Qualify for a DIY Divorce in Tucson

You can divorce without an attorney if:

• You’ve lived in Arizona for at least 90 days

• You and your spouse agree on property and debts

• You agree on legal decision-making (custody) and parenting time (if you have children)

• You understand your finances well enough to complete forms accurately

• No domestic violence, coercion, or major safety concerns are present

A DIY divorce is best for uncontested cases. If you have major disagreements, consider mediation or limited-scope attorney review.

2. Use Pima County or Arizona Supreme Court–Approved Forms

Arizona provides standardized divorce packets you can complete on your own.
These include:

• Petition for Dissolution of Marriage

• Family Court Cover Sheet

• Summons

• Preliminary Injunction

• Parenting Plan (if you have children)

• Child Support Worksheet

• Consent Decree of Dissolution (for uncontested cases)

• Decree of Dissolution (final order)

You can download forms from:

• Pima County Superior Court Self-Service Center

• Arizona Judicial Branch website (statewide forms)

These forms include detailed instructions and checklists.

3. File Your Petition in Pima County Superior Court

After completing your documents, file them at:

Pima County Superior Court – Family Law Division
110 W. Congress St., Tucson, AZ 85701

You’ll pay a filing fee (typically in the $300–$350 range). Fee waivers or deferrals are available for qualifying residents.

4. Serve Your Spouse Properly

Even without a lawyer, service of process must follow Arizona rules. You can serve your spouse through:

• Process server

• Sheriff’s office

• Acceptance of Service form (if your spouse signs voluntarily)

Improper service can delay your divorce, so follow instructions closely.

5. Wait for the 60-Day Cooling-Off Period

Arizona law requires a 60-day waiting period after service before a judge can finalize your divorce—even if everything is agreed.
Use this time to:

• Finalize your settlement agreement

• Complete parenting classes (required when divorcing with children in Arizona)

• Prepare your Consent Decree

6. Submit Your Consent Decree for Judicial Review

For uncontested, lawyer-free cases:

• Both spouses sign the Consent Decree

• You submit it to the Clerk

• A judge reviews and signs it

• No hearing is usually required in uncontested cases

Once signed, you will receive a Decree of Dissolution — your marriage is legally ended.

7. When You Should Not Divorce Without a Lawyer

DIY divorce is not recommended if:

• There is abuse, coercion, or intimidation

• You have complex property (businesses, investment assets, inheritance disputes)

• You disagree on legal decision-making or parenting time

• One spouse is hiding financial information

• You cannot reach agreement and litigation is likely

In these cases, a traditional attorney or limited-scope lawyer may be necessary.

8. How Much Does It Cost to Divorce Without a Lawyer in Tucson?

Compared to attorney-led contested divorces that reach $10,000+, DIY divorces save thousands.

9. How Divorce.com Helps Tucson Couples

Divorce.com provides:

• Arizona-specific divorce paperwork

• A guided, step-by-step process

• Optional attorney review

• Flat-rate pricing

• Faster, easier, and less stressful filing

Perfect for Tucson spouses who are aligned on most issues and want a low-cost, streamlined divorce.

Tucson, AZ — Simple Steps, Lower Stress

Divorcing without a lawyer in Tucson is completely doable when you and your spouse cooperate and use the correct forms. Understanding the process—and avoiding common mistakes—helps you finish faster, spend less, and move forward confidently.