How Long Does It Take to Get Divorced?

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Divorce proceedings can vary significantly in duration depending on several factors, including the nature of the divorce (collaborative or litigious) and whether children are involved. In Boca Raton, Florida, where family law matters are handled with care and attention, understanding the timeline of a divorce can help manage expectations during this often challenging process.

General Timeline

  1. Filing the Petition: The divorce process typically begins with one spouse (the petitioner) filing a petition for dissolution of marriage. This formally initiates the legal proceedings.
  2. Response and Negotiations: The other spouse (the respondent) then has a certain period to respond to the petition. If both parties are willing to negotiate and resolve issues amicably, this phase can proceed relatively quickly.
  3. Discovery and Disclosure: If the divorce involves complex assets or custody arrangements, there may be a period of discovery where both parties exchange relevant information.
  4. Mediation or Court Hearings: Attempting mediation or attending court hearings may be necessary to resolve disagreements on issues like property division, alimony, and child custody.
  5. Finalization: Once all issues are resolved (either through negotiation or court decisions), a final judgment of dissolution of marriage is issued, formally ending the marriage.

Timeline for Collaborative Divorces

Collaborative divorces are generally less time-consuming than litigious divorces. In a collaborative approach, both parties commit to resolving disputes outside of court through open communication and mediation. This cooperative method often results in a quicker resolution. According to the Florida Association of Collaborative Professionals, 78% of collaborative divorce cases in Florida are completed in less than 6 months, and over 91% are completed in less than 9 months.

The key advantage of a collaborative divorce is the ability for spouses to maintain control over the outcome and prioritize the well-being of any children involved.

Timeline for Litigious Divorces

In contrast, litigious divorces can be more time-intensive due to the adversarial nature of the process. Disagreements are often settled in court, which can lead to prolonged legal battles. The timeline for a litigious divorce can vary significantly, ranging from 12 months to several years, depending on the complexity of issues and the willingness of parties to compromise.

Litigious divorces can be emotionally and financially draining, particularly for families with children, as custody and support arrangements are determined through court decisions.

Considerations with Children

Divorces involving children require additional considerations and may take longer to finalize. Courts prioritize the best interests of the child, which can lead to extended negotiations over custody, visitation schedules, and child support.

Mediation is often encouraged in child custody disputes to reach agreements that are mutually beneficial for both parents and in the best interests of the children involved.

Conclusion

While every divorce case is unique, understanding the general timelines and approaches can help manage expectations during this challenging time. Whether pursuing a collaborative or litigious divorce, and whether children are involved or not, the attorneys at Johnson Ritchey Family Law Firm can facilitate a smoother and more efficient process. If you have questions about divorce timelines or need legal assistance, don’t hesitate to contact us for a consultation. We’re here to guide you through this journey with compassion and expertise.