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How Quickly Can You Get Divorced in Georgia?

Publish Date: 07/22/2024

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.

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Divorce Process
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