How Long Does a Divorce Take?

Divorce Timelines in Georgia

Every divorce is unique—the length of the process will depend on the couple's individual circumstance. Some may be more simple and straightforward than others. In Georgia, the fastest divorce may take only 31 days to complete from the date that the action is filed. However, when marriages have been longer than a few years, and property and finances have accumulated in the course of the marriage, the agreement may take longer to arrange and settle.

If you are planning to file for divorce, or preparing for the procedures to come, contact Henrickson & Sereebutra. Our divorce lawyers in Marietta has a decade of experience handling complex family law issues. When it comes to divorce, our team uses their valuable experience to help our clients find positive resolutions. Discuss your situation with us explore your legal options. When it comes to your future ensure your rights are protected and the best interests of your children are looked after.

Ultimately, every case is different. Discuss your situation in a free consultation with our legal team to begin planning for your future and fighting for a fresh start. 

Uncontested Divorces

In an uncontested divorce, the spouses may already agree on the arrangements, or they may still have issues that are unresolved. The essential factor in an uncontested divorce is that both spouses are prepared to approach the process amicably and negotiate the terms fairly. A simple uncontested divorce may take as little as two months to complete.

Contested Divorces

Generally, contested divorces take significantly longer than uncontested procedures. This is due to the nature of a contested divorce—spouses may not be actively trying to settle the terms of a divorce through cooperative negotiation. This means that most of the negotiations may be decided in lengthy court hearings. Depending on the length of the marriage and the issues involved, a contested divorce may take a year or more to complete.

Where You File for Divorce Matters

Another reason a case can vary in its lifespan is the county in which it is filed. Each county has slightly different rules and time periods from one stage of divorce to the next. If the county has a backlog of cases, the time period from filing to a scheduled hearing could be much longer. There are only so many hours in a day and so many judges who can hear these cases.

Our Marietta divorce attorneys are here to help. Contact us today! 

Alternative Divorce Methods

There are some alternative methods to a traditional divorce that may allow spouses to resolve the negotiations more effectively and more quickly. In a collaborative divorce, spouses meet outside of court with their attorneys and negotiate terms without being bogged down by lengthy court procedure. In divorce mediation, spouses meet with a third-party mediator to work out the issues and arrangements, with or without attorney representation. These alternative methods may offer a more efficient procedure at lower financial expense and emotional distress.

Know What to Expect in Your Situation

At Henrickson & Sereebutra, our team may advise you of your options and help you get a better idea of how long your divorce may take. If you are seeking advice before a case has been filed, we can help you explore your options. Our Marietta divorce lawyers are committed to helping spouses and families work through the difficult process of divorce in the most timely, cost effective, and professional manner possible. Whether you need legal representation to protect your best interests in court, or legal guidance in taking the next step, trust a firm dedicated to helping families and spouses move forward with their best interests in mind. 

Schedule a free case evaluation and discuss your circumstances with the team at Henrickson & Sereebutra today!