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Getting a divorce can be stressful, emotional, and overwhelming, which is why many people want to get through the process as fast as possible. However, several factors including how amicable the divorce is and California’s mandatory waiting period create limits on how quickly a couple can finalize their divorce.
Minimum Waiting Period
The minimum time it takes to get a divorce in California is six months from the time the divorce papers are served to the divorce being completely over. The reason for this minimum time period is due to the state’s mandatory “waiting period” to ensure couples have the time to decide whether they truly want a divorce or not.
In some situations, after completing this cooling-off period, a couple may have resolved their issues and instead have made the decision to not go through with the divorce. Unfortunately, this isn’t the case for everyone, and there are still many couples who choose to move toward getting a divorce.
Contested Vs. Uncontested Divorce
While the divorce process lasts at a minimum of six months, it could last longer depending on whether the couple is willing to agree on all the terms of their divorce. For example, those who are on amicable terms and can agree to every aspect of the divorce may be able to get through the process during this six month time. If they don’t get everything resolved during this time, the process typically doesn’t last much longer after this. For those going through a contested, or high-conflict divorce, typically will have a longer divorce process.
If the couple cannot agree on issues like child custody, spousal support, property division, or child support, the process will take considerably longer. There is no exact time this could take since every case is different, but the more contentious the case, the more likely the process will be delayed. Because of the nature of a high-conflict divorce, it can be beneficial to seek legal counsel from a Folsom divorce attorney with experience in negotiating mutually beneficial divorce settlements.
Properly Filing Paperwork
Another thing that can impact the divorce timeline that should be considered is correctly filing paperwork and forms with the court. Divorce paperwork utilizes confusing language that can make it more difficult to not only understand but to properly fill out. This leads to problems for those trying to file their divorce papers on their own. If there are any mistakes or errors on the forms, the court will not accept them, meaning a delay in finalizing the divorce. To ensure this does not happen, you can work with a skilled Folsom divorce attorney.
Don’t delay the divorce process call Law Office of Tiffany L. Andrews, P.C. today at (916) 794-4576 to speak to our Folsom divorce attorneys.