One of the most common questions when going through a divorce is “How long will my divorce take?” While we wish there were a simple answer, the reality is that the timeline depends on a few key factors, most importantly, how much cooperation exists between the two spouses.
The Minimum Waiting Period
Missouri law requires a minimum 30-day waiting period from the time a divorce petition is filed before a judge can finalize the divorce. That means the absolute fastest a divorce can be completed is just over a month, but this is rare. Court availability, paperwork, and logistics usually extend that timeline.
Uncontested Divorce: When You Agree
If you and your spouse are able to agree on all major issues, such as how to divide property and debts, whether support is needed, and how parenting time will be handled, your case can move much more quickly. Once paperwork is filed and the waiting period is met, uncontested divorces are often finalized within 60 to 90 days. In some counties, you may not even need to appear in court.
Contested Divorce: When You Don’t Agree
If there are disagreements about property, finances, or child-related issues, the process becomes more complex. In contested divorces, both parties typically go through a discovery phase where financial information is exchanged. Mediation may be scheduled, and if disputes continue, the case may proceed to court hearings. Most contested divorces in Missouri take anywhere from six months to a year. The more complex the issues, or the less willing one party is to cooperate, the longer it may take.
Court Backlogs and Case Complexity
Local court schedules also affect timing. Some counties have more available judges and quicker dockets, while others experience delays due to backlog. If your case involves a business, hidden assets, or a highly contested custody arrangement, expect the process to take longer than average.
What to Expect Working with Jones Family Law
At Jones Family Law, we work to keep your case moving forward as efficiently as possible. We strive to minimize delays through proactive communication, strategic filing, and by encouraging resolution where possible. Whether your case is simple or complex, we’ll guide you through each step with clarity, care, and experience.
If you’re considering divorce and wondering what to expect, we’re here to help. Reach out to schedule a confidential consultation today.