How Long Does a Divorce Take? Many Factors Can Affect the Timeline
Posted on: August 8, 2018
If you are planning to file for divorce then you likely have many questions. You know that this may be a complicated process. You know that it can affect you and your family. It is common for people to want to know how long a divorce takes. The truth is that it all depends on the specifics of your situation. Read on to get a general idea of how long a divorce takes and what can affect the duration.
If you are interested in hearing more about your divorce options or you want the advice of a family law attorney about child custody, alimony, or other divorce-related topics, then we welcome you to contact Law Office of Michael L. Fell at (949) 585-9055 today.
The average and minimum timeframe
The fastest a California divorce can take place is six months from the date they are filed. This is due to the state’s six-month waiting period that is a requirement of finalizing a divorce. However, most divorces are not completed this quickly. Statistics show us that the average divorce in California takes 15 months. They can range from as little as about eight months to as long as two years.
Factors affecting the divorce process
There are many factors that can have a big impact on how long a divorce takes. Some of the issues that often lead to longer divorce processes include:
- Children. On average, a divorcing couple with children will take seven months longer to see their divorced finalized compared to a couple that does not have children. This is due to the court-ordered studies, financial questions, and psychological evaluations that may be involved.
- Trial. If you are going to trial versus mediation, then you should expect to spend about seven months longer before your divorce is finalized, in large part due to the next issue.
- Court calendar. There is almost always a backlog in the California court system, which means that getting set up with hearing dates, trial dates, orders, final judgments, etc., can take longer than it should.
There is one way to get divorced faster
If you want to get divorced as quickly as possible then a summary dissolution may be an option. There are certain California Courts requirements you must meet, but if you do meet them and you and your spouse agree on the divorce terms, then it is the quickest and easiest way to get divorced.
Are you ready for a consultation? Do you want to hear more? Do you have questions about family law that only an attorney can answer? Then we welcome your call to Law Office of Michael L. Fell at (949) 585-9055 .
