How Long Does a Divorce Take?

This is not an easy one to answer.  There are a lot of varying issues in a divorce.

If we are talking about a simple divorce with no children, no real estate, no debts, and less than five years of marriage, where everything is agreed to, then the answer is simple – about 45 to 60 days from filing should do it.

Now – a case where there are children, real estate, support issues, valuation of property issues, and – especially two people who want to have a fight, then there is no answer at all. It could drag on for more than two years. The normal contested divorce should, in most situations, be over and done within six to eight months. Thankfully, these cases will wind up in mediation at least twice. If the mediator is any good, they should be able to help the parties find a middle ground. If the lawyers do their work properly, by the time the second, or final mediation folls around, most, if not all, of the issues will be well determined and close to resolution. If you add in a child custody issue – then all bets are off. Chances are that these people will have a judge decide their lives for them. A good lawyer will prepare your case for ultimate settlement either beforre or at mediation, and not for ultimate litigation. Very few people will be happy with what a judge does. Keep in mind that if the court makes the decision there will be a winner and a loser. A loser is almost always a person who wants to come back another day and fight it all over again. That means that at every chance there will be more and more litigation, lawyers bills and aggravation. It is always better to make your own bed and not let a judge do it for you.

If you find yourself in such a position it is best to consult an attorney with substantial experience. There are so many different circumstances that a proper answer to your particular problem can only be obtained by a trained and experienced lawyer.

If you have any question regarding this or any other legal matter our firm may be able to help you. Please contact Jupiter Legal Advocates at (561) 748-8000 or email us at [email protected] for further information and assistance. We try our very best to respond immediately.

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