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Let’s look at how long does it take to file divorce papers.
In this article you’ll learn about:
Let’s dig in.
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Every person filing for divorce has a different, complicated scenario.
But, in general, there are a handful of things that affect how long does it take to file divorce papers.
Those 11 things are that if:
Every couple deals with different variations of these issues.
That’s why it’s hard to answer how long does it take to file divorce papers.
But there are ways to speed up the process.
Related: How to Leave Your Husband
You can speed up your divorce if you and your spouse resolve common disagreements.
Most couples will spend months battling each other about:
Let’s say you and your spouse can resolve these issues BEFORE you file for divorce.
In this case, you can have speed up your divorce by months or even years.
(More on how long the average divorce takes below.)
How long does it take to file divorce papers depends on you.
There are three things that need to happen for all of the divorce papers to get filed.
It takes no time to file divorce papers.
You just show up to the courthouse and file them.
Serving your spouse and getting their response can take up to two months.
You have to have the Sheriff’s department serve the divorce papers.
And then your spouse has ~30 days to respond to the divorce petition.
But how long does a divorce take depends on the type of divorce.
When you are filing for an uncontested divorce, filing for divorce is quick.
But a contested divorce will take 2-3 times as long to get divorced.
Filing for an uncontested divorce is the fastest way to file for divorce.
If how long a divorce takes is important to you, try to file for an uncontested divorce.
An uncontested divorce can take anywhere between 2-6 months to finalize.
An uncontested divorce means you have resolved all issues before you file for divorce.
These issues include things like:
Even if you don’t agree on these things yet, you can still get an uncontested divorce.
As long as you hash these things out BEFORE you file your divorce papers.
Related: How Long Does A Divorce Take?
A contested divorce can take 6-12+ months to complete.
And highly contested divorces can take years to wrap up completely.
Especially if it’s a high net worth divorce and there are lots of assets and businesses.
Let’s assume you and your spouse cannot resolve major issues and you need to file contested.
In this case, the judge will need to make decisions for you.
How long does it take to file divorce papers for a contested divorce depends on how long it takes:
Related: How To Get A Divorce For Free
Some states have a mandatory waiting period when filing for divorce.
While others have zero mandatory waiting periods.
Mandatory waiting periods “let you decide if you really want a divorce.”
Let’s say your state has a mandatory waiting period.
In this case, you can file the divorce papers and start the process.
But they won’t finalize the divorce until the waiting period is up.
Related: Grounds for Full Custody of Child
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This website is for informational purposes only. It is not legal advice. Consult an attorney if you are seeking legal advice.
