Why Temporary Orders Matter in an Arizona Divorce
When you file for divorce in Arizona, your case can take months before reaching a final resolution. But what happens in the meantime?
Bills still need to be paid. Children need a stable routine. Property needs to be protected.
That is where temporary orders come in. These court orders set the ground rules while your divorce is pending and help keep life stable during an uncertain time.
What Temporary Orders Can Cover
Temporary orders address practical issues that arise while a divorce is in progress. Common areas include:
- Parenting time and legal decision-making
- Child support and spousal maintenance (alimony)
- Who stays in the marital home
- Who drives which vehicles
- Who pays which bills
- Protecting assets like cash and property
The goal is to minimize disruption and protect both parties and any children involved.
How to Get Temporary Orders in Arizona
The process for obtaining temporary orders is straightforward but formal.
- File a Request with the Court
You or your attorney submit a motion asking the court to issue specific temporary orders. - Hearing Scheduled
The court typically sets a short hearing where both parties can present evidence, testimony, and exhibits. - Judge Issues the Orders
The judge decides what is fair and in the best interest of everyone involved. These orders remain in effect until they are replaced, or the divorce is finalized.
Preparation is key, so bring clear documentation such as pay stubs, bank statements, or draft parenting plans.
The Preliminary Injunction
When a divorce is filed in Arizona, a preliminary injunction automatically goes into effect.
This injunction prevents either party from:
- Moving the children out of state without permission
- Selling or hiding property
- Emptying bank accounts or making major financial changes
It sets expectations from the beginning and helps prevent either spouse from taking unilateral action.
How Judges Approach Temporary Orders
Judges aim to keep things fair, stable, and focused on the children’s best interests.
- If there are kids involved, maintaining routines is the top priority
- Judges are unlikely to grant extreme or one-sided requests
- These orders are intended as interim solutions, not permanent outcomes
Even though they are temporary, they can shape your daily life for months, so it is important to present your case carefully.
How Temporary Orders Affect the Final Divorce
Temporary orders usually last until the final divorce decree is entered. However, they can influence the court’s final decision. If the arrangement works well, a judge may carry some of those terms into the final orders.
That is why it is important to:
- Know exactly what you are asking for
- Provide documentation to support your requests
- Work with experienced legal counsel
Why Legal Guidance Matters
Preparing for a temporary orders hearing without legal help can feel overwhelming. At The Shaw Law Group, we help clients:
- Strategically prepare their requests
- Gather strong supporting documentation
- Present their case clearly and professionally
Temporary orders often set the tone for the entire divorce process. Having an experienced attorney on your side helps ensure your rights are protected from the start.
Contact us today to schedule a consultation, visit our YouTube channel for helpful videos, and explore free legal resources anytime at bryanshawlaw.com.
