How Long Does the Divorce Process Commonly Take?

Many factors affect how long the divorce process takes. Some of these issues are outside of your control, while others will depend on the unique circumstances of your marriage. Through it all, Kimbrough Legal, PLLC, is here to provide bold representation and support to protect your interests in a divorce, no matter how long it takes. We believe in working fast so you can enter the next phase of your life while also taking the time to protect your rights involving property, spousal maintenance, and children. Here’s how different issues may lengthen or shorten the time it takes to finalize your divorce.

Legal Requirements That Affect the Divorce Timeline

The first step to legal separation is to file a divorce petition in the Texas county where you or your spouse lives, but you must meet the residency requirements under Texas Family Code § 6.301. You or your spouse must have lived in Texas for the last six months and have been a resident of the county where you file the divorce petition for the past 90 days.

Texas also imposes a 60-day waiting period before a court can grant a divorce under Texas Family Code § 6.702. The waiting period begins on the date you file the divorce petition. Completing the divorce process should take a minimum of two months under these laws if you meet the residency requirements. However, court scheduling and other administrative delays could also lengthen the time it should take to finalize your divorce.

Other Common Issues That Lengthen the Divorce Process

Settling various aspects of your marriage may also increase the time it takes to complete the divorce process. Additional court hearings, mediations, and settlement conferences may be necessary to resolve these terms. Examples of common complexities that could affect how long a divorce will take include:

• Dividing business ownership interests
• Challenging the enforceability of a marital agreement
• Determining a care plan for any children that the spouses share
• Dividing, selling, or transferring any shared real or personal property
• Settling any marital debts, taxes, litigation, or other financial obligations

These issues may require investigative work, document review, or other legal steps that can extend the length of the divorce process.

Schedule a Consultation With Our Divorce Lawyers to Learn More About How Long the Process Will Take

Our lawyers understand the desire to finalize your divorce quickly and the concerns you may have about how long the process will take. We use innovative practice strategies and technology to streamline the process. Learn more about protecting your financial and family interests in divorce proceedings by meeting with one of our lawyers. Contact Kimbrough Legal, PLLC, today to schedule an initial consultation.