How Long Does It Take to Finalize a Divorce With a Lawyer?

Divorce is a stressful time for everyone involved. According to the National Library of Medicine, divorce is one common motivating factor associated with more anxiety and alcohol abuse. However, divorce attorneys can help ease much of this anxiety. They can negotiate a settlement and file paperwork for you. Regardless, most people want to finalize their divorce as soon as possible. This article will tell you what to expect regarding the finalization of your divorce.

Mutual Agreements

Unfortunately, the length of time a divorce takes depends on several things. One of the main factors is whether you and your spouse can agree on things. Agreeing on visitation for children, spousal support, and who gets specific property or assets can drastically speed up the process. Divorce attorneys can help you reach this point by handling negotiations for you. They'll communicate any possible compromises to ensure you're on board with the new agreement. However, if you can't agree, a divorce can drag out for many years.

Children and Asset Division

On the other hand, a divorce is relatively simple if you and your spouse don't have children or shared assets. If you are newly married, you can head separately and take what you had before the marriage. If you and your significant other agree on everything, it's also this simple. If both parties worked throughout the marriage, spousal support is unlikely. These divorce situations can be settled in as little as a few months.

Judges' Orders

Getting divorced involves more than filing paperwork and having a judge grant it. Certain situations often call for parties to attend counseling or parenting classes before the judge grants a divorce. Sometimes, a judge will order counseling for both parties to determine if they can reconcile. Parenting classes are standard if the parties getting a divorce have children. This can slightly prolong a divorce because a judge won't grant the divorce until the criteria are met.

Divorce attorneys in your local area can tell you the standard rules and regulations regarding your situation. However, we understand you want to finalize your divorce soon. We'll work hard to make that possible. Contact us at The Law Office of Arthur J. White III, P.C. today to schedule a consultation.