Divorce Without A Lawyer – Tempe

About De Novo Law, LLC

De Novo Law, LLC is a premier legal services firm located in Tempe, offering Arizona-licensed Legal Paraprofessional support with a specialization in Divorce cases. Founded by Stephanie Villalobo, a highly respected and licensed Legal Paraprofessional, the firm was inspired by a passion for providing accessible, innovative, and compassionate legal representation. De Novo Law, LLC’s dedication to integrity, transparency, and client education sets it apart in the legal community. Drawing from years of experience, the team is committed to guiding clients through their divorce process with clarity and understanding, ensuring each client receives expert, personalized service every step of the way.

At De Novo Law, LLC, the focus is on breaking down barriers to quality legal services, offering flat fee and pay-as-you-go models that foster affordability and client control. Serving the Tempe area and beyond, the firm is renowned for its commitment to responsive communication, thorough case management, and strategic advocacy. Whether handling complex divorce proceedings or a variety of other legal matters, De Novo Law, LLC upholds the core values of professionalism and service. Under Stephanie Villalobo’s leadership, the firm continues to empower individuals to confidently navigate the legal system with trusted guidance and genuine care.

Stephanie Villalobos, Founder of De Novo Law, LLC

Stephanie Villalobos is the visionary founder of De Novo Law, LLC, a client-focused legal practice located in the heart of Tempe, Arizona. As a licensed legal paraprofessional in Arizona, Stephanie brings extensive experience and a deep understanding of the complex legal issues faced by individuals and families, especially in the realm of Divorce. Her academic credentials, combined with her practical expertise, have shaped her unique approach to legal service—one that balances professionalism with compassion. Stephanie’s commitment to clear communication, ethical service, and cost-effective solutions ensures her clients feel supported throughout their legal journey.

Stephanie’s founding vision for De Novo Law, LLC is rooted in her desire to make quality legal assistance accessible to the Tempe community. She leverages her in-depth knowledge of Divorce law and her reputation for being approachable and trustworthy, offering a supportive and welcoming environment for those navigating challenging legal matters. Under her leadership, the firm holds integrity, transparency, and client-empowerment as guiding values, setting De Novo Law, LLC apart in the legal landscape. Stephanie Villalobos continues to shape the firm's growth, ensuring clients receive personalized legal solutions tailored to their needs—all while fostering meaningful connections within the community she calls home.

Key Divorce Laws and Processes in Tempe

Navigating a divorce in Tempe requires a clear understanding of Arizona’s unique laws, local procedures, and the ways these affect your rights and obligations. According to De Novo Law, LLC, Arizona is a “no-fault” divorce state, meaning that a marriage can be dissolved without having to prove wrongdoing by either party. The Tempe court system follows statewide regulations, but local filing requirements, timelines, and processes can impact your case. For example, at least one spouse must be an Arizona resident for 90 days before filing, and both parties are subject to a mandatory waiting period before the divorce is finalized.

The team at De Novo Law, LLC provides in-depth guidance through each step of the local divorce process, from initial filing to negotiation and resolution. Their experience in Tempe ensures that clients understand potential outcomes—such as asset distribution, custody rulings, and possible spousal support or child support obligations. Penalties for non-compliance with court orders can include fines or contempt of court charges. However, De Novo Law, LLC emphasizes alternatives such as mediation and settlement, which may lead to faster and less contentious resolutions. With their knowledge of Tempe’s court structure and Arizona law, De Novo Law, LLC tailors advice to each client’s situation to help secure the best possible outcome.

Practice Areas Related To  Divorce

Service Name	Service Page URL
Divorce	https://www.denovolawaz.com/divorce-without-a-lawyer/
Spousal Support Modifications	https://www.denovolawaz.com/spousal-support-alimony/
Alimony Modifications	https://www.denovolawaz.com/spousal-support-alimony/

Tempe Demographics

• Population Size: As of 2024, Tempe has an estimated population of approximately 187,000 residents, making it one of the larger cities within Maricopa County, Arizona.
• Age Distribution:
  • The city has a relatively young demographic profile, influenced by Arizona State University’s main campus:
    • Roughly 21% of residents are aged 18–24 years
    • The median age in Tempe is approximately 29.5 years, notably lower than state and national averages
• Diversity: Tempe is a culturally diverse community:
  • Approximately 60% of residents identify as White (non-Hispanic)
  • About 25% are Hispanic or Latino, with additional representation from African American, Asian, and Native American populations
  • The city’s diversity is increasing steadily, especially among younger age cohorts
• Socioeconomic Indicators:
  • Median household income is approximately $65,000 per year, slightly higher than the Arizona average but below some neighboring cities
  • About 19% of Tempe’s population lives below the poverty line, in part due to the significant student presence
  • Nearly 44% of adults over age 25 hold a bachelor’s degree or higher
  • The city’s employment is driven by higher education, healthcare, technology, and service industries
• Notable Trends: Tempe continues to experience robust economic development, population growth, and expanding multicultural representation, with ongoing investments in urban renewal and infrastructure.

Tempe Family Court System

Tempe falls under the jurisdiction of the Maricopa County Superior Court for all family law matters. While Tempe does not have its own independent family court, cases from Tempe residents are administered primarily at the Superior Court’s Southeast Facility in Mesa and occasionally at the Downtown Phoenix location.

• Main Courts:
  • Maricopa County Superior Court – Southeast Facility (in Mesa), serving most family law cases for Tempe residents.
  • Maricopa County Superior Court – Downtown Phoenix location for alternate case hearings as needed.
• Case Types Handled: The family court system processes:
  • Dissolution of marriage (divorce) and legal separation
  • Child custody (legal decision-making) and parenting time
  • Child support establishment, modification, and enforcement
  • Paternity determination
  • Spousal maintenance (alimony)
  • Adoption and guardianship cases
  • Orders of protection and cases regarding domestic violence
• Unique Features:
  • The Maricopa County Superior Court offers mediation and alternative dispute resolution services to facilitate amicable settlements and diminish adversarial litigation
  • Family Court Services assist with parenting conferences, custody evaluations, and educational programs for parents in contested custody matters
  • Digital case filing platforms and remote hearings increase efficiency and ease of access for clients and legal practitioners

Tempe Family Law Statistics

• Divorce Rates: Maricopa County, including Tempe, reports annual divorce rates between 3.0 and 3.5 per 1,000 married persons, closely mirroring statewide patterns. This reflects a stable but moderate volume of new divorce filings each year.
• Child Custody Cases: Most custody matters in Tempe result in joint legal decision-making (joint custody) unless there are specific factors affecting a child’s welfare. Courts generally promote arrangements that support involvement by both parents following a separation or divorce.
• Trends:
  • Growth in the use of mediation and co-parenting classes to promote reduced conflict and prioritize children’s best interests
  • Increasing focus on alternative dispute resolution as an alternative to trial, especially in high-conflict or complex cases
• Child Welfare Initiatives:
  • Mandatory parent education courses for all parties involved in custody disputes, as required under Arizona law
  • Court-provided supervised visitation and parenting time facilities for high-risk situations to safeguard child safety
• Case Types: In addition to divorce and custody, Tempe sees frequent family law filings related to child support enforcement, modification of prior orders, orders of protection, grandparent and third-party rights, and stepparent adoptions.

Directions From Tempe

Getting Help with Divorce In Tempe

Stephanie Villalobos, Founder of De Novo Law, LLC

Stephanie Villalobos is the visionary founder of De Novo Law, LLC, a client-focused legal practice located in the heart of Tempe, Arizona. As a licensed legal paraprofessional in Arizona, Stephanie brings extensive experience and a deep understanding of the complex legal issues faced by individuals and families, especially in the realm of Divorce. Her academic credentials, combined with her practical expertise, have shaped her unique approach to legal service—one that balances professionalism with compassion. Stephanie’s commitment to clear communication, ethical service, and cost-effective solutions ensures her clients feel supported throughout their legal journey.

Stephanie’s founding vision for De Novo Law, LLC is rooted in her desire to make quality legal assistance accessible to the Tempe community. She leverages her in-depth knowledge of Divorce law and her reputation for being approachable and trustworthy, offering a supportive and welcoming environment for those navigating challenging legal matters. Under her leadership, the firm holds integrity, transparency, and client-empowerment as guiding values, setting De Novo Law, LLC apart in the legal landscape. Stephanie Villalobos continues to shape the firm's growth, ensuring clients receive personalized legal solutions tailored to their needs—all while fostering meaningful connections within the community she calls home.