How Long Does It Take to Finalize a Divorce After Filing Papers?
The divorce process in Florida can feel overwhelming. Divorce can be a complex and emotionally charged process. One common question many people have is how long it will take for their divorce to be concluded after filing papers. Filing divorce papers means submitting a Petition for Dissolution of Marriage to the court to begin the divorce process. This petition notifies the court that one party seeks to end the marriage. It outlines the petitioner’s requests regarding divorce-related issues such as property division and alimony. So, how long does it take to finalize a Florida divorce after filing a Petition for Dissolution of Marriage? The answer depends on various factors, including whether the divorce is contested or uncontested and the complexity of the issues involved.
Factors That Can Affect the Timeline of a Florida Divorce
The divorce process is set in motion after the Petition for Dissolution of Marriage is filed. However, how long it takes to finalize a divorce depends on the specific factors surrounding the case. The following are some of the factors that can affect how long it takes to finalize a Florida divorce after filing the papers;
Whether the Divorce Is Contested or Uncontested
One of the main factors that can affect how long it takes to finalize a divorce after filing papers is whether the divorce is contested or uncontested. In an uncontested divorce, both spouses agree on all divorce-related issues like property division, alimony, timesharing, and child support. Uncontested divorce cases tend to move quickly, often concluding within a few months. On the other hand, contested divorces are more complex and time-consuming because the divorcing spouses can’t agree on one or more issues. Contested divorces may take several months to over a year to finalize.
Spouse’s Response Time
After filing divorce papers, the other spouse (the respondent) must be given a chance to respond. If the respondent delays responding, it can add to the overall timeline.
Complexity of the Issues Involved
Divorce cases involving complex issues usually take longer to resolve. For example, cases involving significant or complex assets and timesharing or child support disputes may require more time to resolve, as these issues require careful consideration. The need for expert testimony, financial evaluations, and the court’s intervention can prolong the divorce process.
The Court’s Availability
If your divorce case proceeds to court, the court’s availability could affect how long it takes to conclude your case. Florida family law courts can experience backlogs due to high caseloads. The court’s availability can add months to the overall timeline of your divorce.
Compliance With Legal Requirements
There are legal requirements to be met during the divorce process. Failure to meet legal requirements, such as missing deadlines, can cause delays in your divorce case. Divorcing spouses and their attorneys need to communicate effectively and cooperate to avoid delays.
Mediation or Settlement Negotiations
Mediation or settlement negotiations can shorten the overall divorce process, but it depends on the willingness of both parties to negotiate and come to an agreement. If one party is unwilling to negotiate, mediation may take longer or fail, necessitating a trial.
Contact an Orlando Divorce Lawyer
If you’re concerned about how long your divorce will take, contact our Orlando divorce lawyers at The Arwani Law Firm. We can help you navigate the process as quickly and smoothly as possible.
Source:
flcourts.gov/Resources-Services/Office-of-Family-Courts/Family-Court-in-Florida/Family-Law-Forms/Petition-for-Dissolution-of-Marriage-12.901-Forms-A-B3
