Divorce Timeline: How Long Does the Process Take?
If you are considering filing for divorce, you will probably wonder how long it will take to finalize the process. While there is no set time, a contested divorce can take anywhere from nine months to three years, while an uncontested divorce takes just a few weeks to finish. You can file for divorce in your county and get an estimate of how long it will take. You can also use LegalZoom to file for a divorce online.
If you want to get a divorce but don’t want to deal with the hassle of hiring an attorney, then an uncontested divorce may be right for you. An uncontested divorce is a divorce where the spouse doesn’t dispute the divorce papers and agrees on the terms.
It is also the easiest form of divorce to obtain. There are many reasons why an uncontested divorce is a good idea. The main one is that it helps save you time and money. This is because you don’t have to pay a lawyer to write the paperwork. In addition, the court doesn’t have to spend its valuable time and money on a case that you can easily resolve yourself.
Another reason for choosing an uncontested divorce is that you can be self-represented. This is because most states don’t require you to hire a lawyer. You can file the documents in the county clerk’s office. You can also use online filing systems.
Contested divorces are typically longer in duration than uncontested divorces. This is due to the fact that both parties are required to disclose relevant documents and facts. In some cases, a judge might require depositions, which can take up significant time.
Unlike an uncontested divorce, a contested one involves extensive financial documentation. For example, the court may require that each party to provide a financial disclosure package that includes tax returns, retirement account statements, paycheck stubs, and other such documents. The financial disclosure package will be sworn before a notary public.
A contested divorce may also involve a trial, which can last anywhere from four hours to two weeks. Depending on how busy the courts are and how slow your spouse is at returning paperwork, it could take even longer.
In a contested divorce, you may need to hire an experienced Houston divorce attorney, who is likely to protect your rights. In addition, you will need to complete a number of complex divorce forms. These include a Marital Settlement and Separation Agreement (MSA), which is a legal document signed by a judge based on an agreement between the two parties.
If you are planning on filing for divorce, there are a few options available. LegalZoom is one of the most popular online legal services. It has a strong reputation and years of experience. Its services are also reliable and easy to use. However, it is important to be cautious when using online services.
First, you should find out whether or not the forms provided by the site are accepted by your state court system. If they are, then you can proceed to fill them out. If they are not, you can request a resubmission. Alternatively, you can contact your state court to ask for assistance.
Once you’ve completed your forms, you can print them out and file them with the court. The cost of the service is relatively low, and it may save you time and money. If you have a contested divorce, however, it is best to have the help of a lawyer.
It can be difficult to determine how long the divorce process will take in your county. The time period will vary depending on the county and the courthouse, as well as the complexities of the case. You may want to consult with a family law attorney before you start.
In general, uncontested divorces are expected to take four to six months. Contested divorces take much longer. A contested divorce requires detailed information, and may require multiple trips to the Supreme Court.
The first part of the divorce process involves filing the Complaint for Divorce. It can be served by a sheriff or a lawyer, or it can be sent through certified mail. The process can also include depositions, written questions, or a request to produce documents.
When the Complaint for Divorce is filed, the other spouse is given a set amount of time to respond. Then, a hearing is scheduled. During this time, a judge will decide if the couple can get a divorce.