How long does it take to get a divorce?

If you’re wondering how long does it take to get a divorce, you’re probably here because you want the process to go as quickly as possible.

In this article, we’ll answer the question ‘how long does it take to get a divorce’ and give you some helpful hints and tips for how to make the process as smooth as possible.

How long does it take to get a divorce?

If you and your spouse agree on having a divorce and can agree your grounds for divorce, your divorce could be completed in around 4 to 6 months.

However, the answer to the question ‘how long does it take to get a divorce’ can be much longer, if your spouse does not agree to the divorce, or you both cannot agree on the grounds for divorce .

In reality, defended divorces – where one party does not agree that the relationship has broken down or does not agree to the grounds for divorce that have been cited on the divorce petition – are very rare.

How long does it take to get a divorce if my spouse does not agree to it?

If your spouse contests your divorce, this could significantly lengthen the answer to how long does it take to get a divorce. Thankfully, this rarely happens and there are things you can do to lessen the risk.

How long does it take to get a divorce: how to ensure the process goes quickly and smoothly

Usually, it is best to agree the reason (or grounds) for your divorce with your spouse, before filing your divorce petition with the court. This can reduce the risk of delays to the divorce process caused by the other party not agreeing to the grounds for divorce (even if they agree with the divorce itself). However, this is not always the case, so it is important to speak to a solicitor for advice tailored to your circumstances.

Moreover, if you were going to cite ‘unreasonable behaviour’ as your reason for divorce, for example, be aware of purposefully citing examples that could anger your spouse – and cause delays to the process. Your solicitor will be able to guide you through this crucial part of the divorce process.

How long does it take to get a divorce usually depends on the financial settlement

Reaching an agreement on how assets should be split upon divorce, is usually what causes more lengthy divorce processes. Although the financial side of things is separate to the divorce process, it usually runs concurrently with it, with the decree absolute – the legal end of the marriage – normally not received until after an agreement regarding finances has been reached.

Seeking legal advice may reduce how long does it take to get a divorce

Having an experienced divorce solicitor on your side to guide you through the divorce process and help you to reach a financial settlement with your spouse, can help to ensure that the answer to the question ‘how long does it take to get a divorce’ is only a matter of months.

Thinking about how to apply for a divorce?

Our expert family law solicitors can help you with a range of legal issues relating to divorce, including:

• Prenuptial agreements
• Cohabitation agreements
• Post civil partnership agreements
• Divorce
• Domestic violence and harassment
• Child maintenance
• Child contact arrangements
• Divorce financial provisions

Contact our expert divorce solicitors for advice on your divorce

For more information call our divorce solicitors on 0845 862 5001 or email mail@austinkemp.co.uk.

Our expert family law solicitors offer a nationwide service. We have client meeting office facilities available, in order to have face-to-face client meetings / conferences as and when required in:

Leeds Office: St Andrew House, The Headrow, Leeds, LS1 5JW

Sheffield Office: Pinfold Street, The Balance, Sheffield, S1 2GU

Manchester Office: King Street, Manchester, M2 4PD

Wakefield Office: Market Walk, Wakefield, WF1 1QR

London Office: 01 Nothumberland Avenue, Trafalgar Square, London, WC2N 5BW

Canary Wharf Office: 25 Canada Square, Canary Wharf, London, E14 5LB

Please contact us for more details.