Rating 4, 9 (8) · Normally, an uncontested divorce can be finalized within 45 days to twelve months, while a highly contested divorce can take up to three years, if you're thinking about ending. A divorce in Georgia can take anywhere from 31 days to several years, depending on the type of divorce and other factors. If both spouses are willing to cooperate in their divorce, the resolution usually takes between six months and a year. If one or both spouses are in conflict, resolving the divorce may take several years.
Most disagreements stem from disputes over money, property, child custody, court delays, custody evaluations, asset valuation, and delays caused by a slowly responding spouse. Mediation services can help keep this process civil and resolve the divorce more quickly. The length of a divorce can vary widely and is influenced by numerous factors, such as the complexity of the case and the level of cooperation between the spouses. On average, an uncontested divorce in which both parties agree on all terms can take as little as 31 days.
This process is often faster because it involves less paperwork and fewer court appearances. In an uncontested divorce, both spouses agree to all of the terms, including the division of assets, custody, and maintenance. This type of divorce is usually faster and more cost-effective, since there is no need for a lengthy court battle. After a waiting period of 31 days, an uncontested divorce can be finalized within 45 to 60 days, although court schedules can cause slight delays.
The deadline for an uncontested divorce in Georgia is relatively short. After the mandatory 30-day waiting period, uncontested divorces end as soon as the judge signs the order. In some cases, when there are no complications and both parties respond promptly, the divorce can be completed as soon as 30 days after the waiting period. However, delays in paperwork or court scheduling may slightly extend this time frame, although it's still much faster than a contested divorce.
We encourage clients to explore divorce mediation, in addition to traditional negotiations, to resolve some or all of their disputes out of court. The divorce decree is the official legal document that concludes the marriage and establishes the terms related to the division of property, alimony and child custody. Some divorces may require expert evaluations, such as custody evaluations or property appraisals, to help resolve disputes. A no-fault divorce involves an “irreparable break” of the marriage, which often makes it easier to obtain it without judicial disputes.
Some divorces can be finalized in as little as 30 days, while others can last more than a year, especially if disputes arise between the parties. A number of factors can significantly extend the length of a divorce in Georgia, particularly in cases with complex issues or limited cooperation between spouses. Divorce is an important life transition, and understanding the timeline can help alleviate some of the uncertainty during an already difficult time. Contentious divorces occur when spouses cannot agree on one or more key issues, such as the division of property, child custody, or alimony.
Custody evaluations, child support calculations, and the creation of parenting plans add levels of complexity to the divorce process and often require additional time to resolve. If you are considering a divorce and want to ensure that the process is carried out efficiently and effectively, it is essential to have specialized legal support. If the parties are unable to reach an agreement through negotiation or mediation, the case goes to trial, where a judge makes final decisions on the issues in dispute. Understanding the role of the high court in the divorce process is crucial, and an experienced attorney can help you resolve it effectively.
