Understandably, many people in Georgia who are involved in the divorce process wants matters to conclude as fast as possible. Despite this desire for speed during what many people consider the most uncomfortable time in their life, it is also critical for people navigating the divorce process to avoid letting their urgency affect the quality and manner in which their divorce concludes.
It is helpful to enter the divorce process with an understanding of just how long you can expect it to take. It is also a wise idea to obtain the assistance of an experienced divorce attorney who can make sure that matters proceed as effectively and quickly as possible.
Uncontested Divorces
If you have already reached an agreement with your spouse concerning all aspects of the divorce, it is considered uncontested.
Many couples discover that it takes between 30 to 60 days to negotiate the terms of a divorce. This, however, is not the only step of an uncontested divorce.
Uncontested divorces are granted 31 days after the other spouse has been served with a complaint of divorce, but even this step is subject to certain requirements. The involved parties must have already reached a formal agreement. The judge presiding over the case also must be willing to sign on the 31st day. Judges often have numerous cases to handle, which means that sometimes judges are not able to sign paperwork on exactly the 31st day.
Contested Divorces
In situations in which a divorce is contested, a disagreement exists about one or more terms related to the divorce. In these situations, a divorce is obtained once a case is decided, heard, or reviewed by the court.
A person has 30 days in a contested divorce in which to file an answer and then six months of discovery. Often, the length of this discovery period is increased to make sure that all relevant documents are received and that all important witnesses are interviewed.
If motions are filed to the court in these situations, this divorce process can be made much longer. The contested divorce process can also increase greatly if issues arise concerning alimony, child support, or custody. If children are involved, there are often other parties that must provide information that can greatly decrease the length of the divorce.
It is not uncommon for the full contested divorce process to take anywhere between six months to several years. In general, though, contested divorces take much longer than uncontested divorces.
Speak with an Experienced Alpharetta Divorce Attorney Today
If you are involved in the divorce process, it is often critical to obtain the assistance of an experienced divorce attorney who can make certain that matters resolve as efficiently as possible. At Vayman & Teitelbaum, P.C., we have helped numerous people navigate the divorce process and know what it takes to make sure that your case resolves in the best possible manner. Contact our law office today to schedule an initial case evaluation.