Initiating a divorce often means that you subject yourself to a series of stressful and potentially contentious events. Divorce proceedings can be mentally, emotionally and physically draining, so it stands to reason that you might wonder just how long the whole process will take.
Each divorce case can differ radically from the next based on factors like child custody, types of assets that are on the line and the overall attitude of spouses toward one another. However, you can get a good idea of how long it will take you to go through your divorce by looking at some common factors as well as the alternatives to a traditional divorce.
How long does a traditional divorce take?
A traditional Texas divorce can typically take anywhere from six months up to a year or more. One of the prime factors that can cause a divorce to take longer is when one or both spouses are keeping secrets. Hiding assets, neglecting to disclose finances or otherwise choosing not to be fully open with one’s attorney and the rest of the court will complicate the case and add weeks or months to the process.
Does it make a difference if you choose collaborative divorce?
As an alternative to traditional divorce proceedings, you and your soon-to-be ex-spouse might decide to undergo a collaborative divorce instead. Doing so entails settling matters outside of court and agreeing to find a mutually-beneficial outcome. You can potentially shave entire months off your divorce timeline if both parties are willing to collaborate and compromise toward a fair resolution.
Divorce proceedings commonly take at least six months to come to a full conclusion. Many factors can complicate a divorce to the point of taking a year or more, but couples who agree on collaborative divorce can settle things much faster.