How to File for Divorce in Arizona
Complete guide to Arizona dissolution of marriage, forms, and requirements for 2025
Steps to File for Divorce in Arizona
1
Meet Residency Requirements
At least one spouse must have been domiciled in Arizona for a minimum of 90 days before filing for divorce.
2
Determine Type of Divorce
Arizona calls divorce "dissolution of marriage." Decide between no-fault (irretrievable breakdown) or covenant marriage dissolution with specific grounds.
3
Complete Required Forms
File a Petition for Dissolution of Marriage with the Superior Court. Arizona provides self-service forms for uncontested cases.
4
File with the Court
Submit your completed forms to the Superior Court Clerk in the county where you or your spouse lives along with the filing fee.
5
Serve Your Spouse
Your spouse must be served within 120 days. Arizona allows service by process server, sheriff, acceptance of service, or certified mail.
6
Wait and Finalize
After the mandatory 60-day waiting period and any required hearings, the court will enter your Decree of Dissolution.
Arizona Divorce Requirements
Residency Requirement
90 Days
At least one spouse must have been domiciled in Arizona for at least 90 days before filing for dissolution.
Waiting Period
60 Days
Arizona requires a 60-day waiting period from the date your spouse is served before the divorce can be finalized.
Filing Fees
$349 - $400+
Filing fees vary by county. Maricopa County charges $349. Fee deferrals available for those who qualify.
Required Arizona Divorce Forms
Petition for Dissolution of Marriage
Primary form initiating the divorce
Summons
Notifies your spouse of the legal action
Preliminary Injunction
Automatically prevents asset dissipation
Parenting Plan
Required if you have minor children
Affidavit of Financial Information
Disclosure of income, assets, and debts
Contested vs. Uncontested Divorce in Arizona
Uncontested Divorce
- Both spouses agree on all terms
- Can be finalized in 60-90 days
- Use court's self-service forms
- May not require a hearing
- Lower costs - primarily filing fees
- Default divorce available if spouse doesn't respond
Contested Divorce
- Spouses disagree on important issues
- Can take 6 months to over a year
- Requires discovery and depositions
- May require mediation or trial
- Higher costs with attorney fees
- Judge decides unresolved issues
Important Things to Know
Arizona is a community property state, meaning most assets and debts acquired during marriage are divided equally. Arizona also has "covenant marriage," which requires counseling before marriage and limits divorce grounds. If you have a covenant marriage, different rules apply.
Arizona-Specific Considerations
- Arizona is a community property state
- 60-day mandatory waiting period
- Covenant marriage requires additional grounds
- Parenting time (custody) follows best interests standard
- Self-service center available at most courthouses
Ready to Start Your Arizona Divorce?
Splitifi helps you navigate the divorce process with document preparation, expense tracking, and guided support every step of the way.