How Long Does Divorce Take?
Getting divorced in
Georgia can be a quick or lengthy process, heavily influenced by various
factors. The shortest possible time for a divorce in Georgia is just over 30
days, but it can extend to over a year in more complex cases. The duration of
your divorce will depend on several key elements.
Contested vs. Uncontested Divorce
The nature of the divorce—whether contested or uncontested—plays a significant role in determining the timeframe. An uncontested divorce, where both parties agree on all major issues, can be finalized relatively quickly. After the defendant has been served with the complaint for divorce, the court can grant the divorce as soon as 31 days later. However, reaching a formal agreement often takes an additional 30 to 60 days. Moreover, the judge's schedule can introduce further delays.
Conversely, a contested-divorce, where there is disagreement on one or more issues, can take
significantly longer. This type of divorce involves more extensive legal
proceedings, including a 30-day period for the answer to be filed, a six-month
discovery phase, and potentially several months waiting for a trial date. Thus,
contested divorces in Georgia can range from six months to several years.
Factors Influencing Divorce Duration
The complexity of the case, such as the division of assets or child custody disputes, is a major factor affecting the length of a divorce. More assets or complicated custody arrangements require more time to resolve. Additionally, the county in which the divorce is filed can impact the timeline, as some counties have larger case backlogs than others.
Average Timeframes
On average, an
uncontested divorce in Georgia can take about 45 days, while a highly contested
divorce might drag on for years. It is important to note that these
timeframes are merely averages and can vary widely based on the specifics of each
case.
For a more accurate
estimate of how long your divorce might take, consult with an experienced
divorce lawyer. They can provide insight tailored to the unique
circumstances of your situation. Regardless of the general guidelines, each
divorce is unique, and understanding the factors at play can help set realistic
expectations for the process.