One of the most common questions that an individual filing for divorce has is how long the process will take. Ending a marriage can be extremely stressful and emotionally draining, and no one wants to endure a long and drawn-out fight. The length of a divorce can vary significantly depending on the state you are in and the specific circumstances of the relationship. To gain some insight into the process, continue reading below. Work with a Morris County, NJ divorce lawyer for skilled assistance and representation during your case.
How Long Will My Divorce Take in NJ?
The amount of time your divorce will take can vary significantly based on the specific details of your situation. While some states impose a mandatory waiting period, New Jersey does not. This means that there is no required delay designed to allow the couple to reconsider their decision and possibly reconcile. Instead, as soon as all of the requirements have been met, the judge can sign and finalize the divorce decree. General requirements include being a resident of the state, having a valid reason for divorce, and resolving all relevant issues like property division and alimony.
Depending on the details of your relationship, your divorce could take as little as 6 weeks or last several months or even years. The length of the process will vary depending on how agreeable you and your spouse are, whether you have minor children, the amount of assets and debts you have, how busy the court is, and more.
How Can I Expedite My Divorce?
Uncontested divorces are the fastest and occur when both parties agree on all key issues, like the division of property, debt allocation, alimony, child custody, and child support. Because they are in agreement and there is no need for negotiations or a trial, the process generally moves quickly. An uncontested divorce in New Jersey can be finalized in as little as 6 to 8 weeks.
Filing a no-fault divorce will also expedite the process. New Jersey allows spouses to file based on fault or no-fault grounds depending on the circumstances. If you file under a fault-based ground like adultery, abandonment, cruelty, etc., you are required to present ample evidence proving your spouse’s indiscretions in court. They will likely present a counterargument. This can take a significant amount of time, especially considering system backlogs and waiting for court dates.
If you have no children, average net worth and assets, are able to communicate effectively with your spouse, and file based on no-fault grounds, your divorce could last as little 2 to 3 months. Understanding how to fast-track your divorce is important for any couple to save money on legal fees and avoid stress. To learn more about the process and your options, reach out to an experienced family lawyer at Townsend, Tomaio & Newmark, LLC.
