How long does it take to get divorced in California?

Unhappy Older Man and Woman Seats Apart

You and your spouse can end your marital status six months after one of you files papers at the courthouse and serves copies of these papers to the other person. But the passage of time by itself will not get you divorce.  A Judgment Dissolving the Marriage must be entered by the court.  There are many factors that can affect the actual length of time it takes to get divorced in California. As your SLO divorce lawyers, Hosford & Hosford will advise you about these concerns, which is why it is best to engage our services early in the process.

Here are a few of these factors:

Accurate paperwork. The petitioner (person who files for divorce) must provide the right documents to the correct court. In addition, the respondent needs to be served these papers for the six month timeline to begin.

Timely filings. Legal actions take time, but experienced attorneys can make the process more efficient. Otherwise, you may be delayed as you complete legal documents, research information for the other party or the court, and comb through finances and ownership records.

Negotiations over legal issues of the marriage. When you and your spouse divorce, there are likely many issues you will have to figure out. Your relationship and ability to work together may make negotiations on these issues short or lengthy. From calculating child support to determining the division of assets, the way you handle these decisions affects the length of the divorce.

Courtroom proceedings. When negotiation is not possible, you and your spouse may litigate the case before a judge. You may have to wait for hearing dates on the issues as well as participate in court-required mediation before you can appear before the judge. The longer that these issues take, the longer your divorce will take.

In each of these issues, a knowledgeable attorney may be able to speed along your divorce case. Hosford & Hosford helps clients to petition or respond to a petition for divorce, resolve questions that come up during the process, and, if necessary, litigate concerns before a judge. The result is a faster resolution to the case.

Learn more about what to expect in a divorce. Contact Hosford & Hosford at (805) 439-1906 or toll-free at (855) 675-4496.