One of the common questions we get as family law attorneys from divorcing couples is how long it takes to get a divorce. The divorce process can feel like a wild ride on a rollercoaster that you cannot wait to end. However, the truth is that it is impossible to predict how long a divorce will take. The exact time it takes to complete the divorce process depends on the factors surrounding the case. If you are wondering how long your New Jersey divorce will take, then you should know that the timeline of your case depends on the unique factors surrounding it. The following are some of the factors that can affect the timeline of a New Jersey divorce.
Waiting Period for Divorce in New Jersey
A waiting period is a mandatory period that must elapse between when the divorce proceedings are initiated and when they are finalized. New Jersey is one of the states that does not have a waiting period for divorce. In other words, after the Complaint for Divorce is filed, the judge can grant a divorce as soon as all necessary paperwork has been completed and all the divorce-related issues have been resolved.
Factors That Can Impact the Timeline of a New Jersey Divorce
A host of factors can affect how long a New Jersey divorce takes. Below are some of the factors that can impact the timeline of your New Jersey divorce;
Level of Conflict Between You and Your Spouse
One of the factors that can impact how long it takes to finalize your New Jersey divorce is the level of conflict between you and your spouse. The divorce process will be prolonged if you and your spouse are unwilling to collaborate.
The Willingness of Parties to Cooperate and Participate
If you or your spouse is uncooperative or refuses to participate, it can result in the divorce process being extended. You can expedite the process if you cooperate and participate.
The Type of Divorce You File
In New Jersey, you can file either a fault or no-fault divorce. The option you choose and whether you file a contested or uncontested divorce can significantly impact how long it takes to finalize your divorce. A contested divorce is one where parties cannot agree on all or most key divorce-related issues. In contrast, an uncontested divorce is when parties agree on all divorce-related issues. In a no-fault divorce, neither spouse has to prove the other’s misconduct. On the other hand, a fault-based divorce requires one party to show that the other is to blame for the divorce. Generally, no-fault and uncontested divorce cases finalize faster than fault-based and contested cases.
Complexity of the Case
Finally, the complexity of your case can impact the timeline of your divorce. For example, if your divorce involves business ownership and substantial assets, your case may be prolonged. Also, alimony, property division, or child custody disputes can extend the timeline of your divorce.
Contact a New Jersey Family Lawyer
For more information and to get help with your divorce case, contact our qualified New Jersey family law attorney at The Trabosh Law Firm at 856-874-8840 or by filling out our online contact form.