How Long Does it Take to Finalize a Divorce in FL?

If you are frustrated with your marriage, your thoughts may turn to divorce. However, you may be hesitant to make a move because of the stories you have heard about the process. Maybe a friend’s divorce took two years to finalize. Perhaps a co-worker told you about all the time and money spent negotiating all the aspects of their divorce.

These horror stories about divorce may have you freaking out. But here’s something to keep in mind: no two divorces are the same. Each couple is different. The reasons for the divorce can vary widely.

So, if you are wondering how long your divorce can take to finalize, well, it is hard to tell. There is no clear-cut answer. While there are some guidelines and general timelines in place, how long the divorce process takes depends on the type of divorce and how you and your spouse are approaching the divorce. Are you divorcing amicably? Is your spouse fighting it? Are you seeking revenge? Here is a look at how long a divorce may take based on the type of divorce

Simplified Divorce

This is the easiest and fastest divorce. However, not everyone qualifies for a simplified divorce. This quickie divorce is only available to couples who agree to this divorce, have no minor children, and do not request alimony. Also, property division will need to be determined by the spouses. Once the divorce petition is filed, a simplified divorce can be finalized in as little as three weeks.

Uncontested Divorce

If you have children or just want your divorce to be over quickly, then the next best thing would be an uncontested divorce. As the name implies, an uncontested divorce is not contested. You and your spouse agree on all aspects of the divorce, such as alimony, child custody, child support, and the division of assets and debts.

If you and your spouse can communicate well and get paperwork completed in a timely manner, then your divorce may be finalized in as little as six weeks. However, many uncontested divorces take three months or longer.

Contested Divorce

A contested divorce takes the longest. This is because the parties are often unfriendly toward each other. They may be prolonging the divorce on purpose as some sort of revenge. There are disagreements on one or more issues. In a contested divorce, the judge decides on asset division, child custody, and other matters.

These cases take at least six months to finalize, with some divorce proceedings lasting a year or two. This is especially true if the case goes to trial. Waiting for the court date alone could take a year.

Contact Our West Palm Beach Divorce Attorney Today

The length of a divorce case depends on many factors. If it is contested, it could take longer than a year. If it is uncontested and everyone is in agreement, the process may take just a few months.

West Palm Beach divorce attorney Brian K. McMahon, P.A. can support you through the process. We’ll handle everything so you can focus on healing. Fill out the online form or call (561) 658-1789 to schedule a consultation. We serve the West Palm Beach, Boca Raton, Port St. Lucie, and South Florida areas.