How long does it take to get divorced?
This is really a two-part question. Most states require a certain period of time to pass between the filing of the initial paperwork and the issuance of a Judgment of Dissolution (the “official” document signed by the judge stating that you are now divorced). The period varies from six weeks to six months. However, these time periods are assuming that you and your spouse completely agree on all issues including child support, spousal support and the divisions of assets and debts. The fact that you are getting divorced usually indicates that you will not be agreeing on all of the issues. So “How long does it take to get divorced?” really depends upon the time period required in your state and how long you decide to fight with your spouse over the issues mentioned above.
Other Separation and Divorce FAQs
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What is a legal separation?
A Legal Separation is similar to a divorce in that the issues relating to child custody, child support, visitation, alimony or spousal support, the division of … more -
What is an annulment?
An annulment is a method of voiding the contract of marriage. If an annulment is granted, the result is that the parties are treated as if the marriage never occurred. … more -
What exactly does it mean to be divorced?
If you are divorced it means that a judge has signed a “dissolution of marriage” declaring that you are no longer legally married to your spouse. … more -
What is the difference between a “fault” and “no fault” divorce?
A “no fault” divorce is one where the spouse filing for divorce does not have to prove that the other spouse did something wrong. All states allow divorces … more -
My husband said that he will “not allow” me to get divorced from him. Can he legally stop the divorce?
In a no fault divorce state there is nothing that your husband can do to legally prevent you from filing for and obtaining a divorce decree from the court. However, a … more -
How do I file for divorce?
Filing for divorce is like initiating any other civil lawsuit – you must first file papers at the courthouse (a “Complaint”). Many states have … more -
My husband and I do not make much money and we really don’t own anything of much value – is there a simplified way for us to get divorced?
It depends. Some states offer a simplified version of divorce that may be available to you. In the states that do, it is usually required that you and your … more
