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Once the decision to get a divorce has been made, one or both parties often wonder how they can resolve their issues and reach a final settlement as quickly as possible. While the timeline for getting a divorce is different for every couple, some steps can be taken to expedite the process.
Several factors can prolong the process, including whether you and your spouse can agree on the terms of your settlement. In addition, if you have complex custody, child support, and spousal support issues that need to be negotiated, reaching an agreement will likely take more time. Generally speaking, if you have no children, minimal marital property, and no other major issues that need to be resolved, you may obtain a divorce in as little as three to six months. The average time it takes to get a divorce in New Jersey is one year.
There are steps you can take to help quicken the divorce process, including the following:
- Opt for a no-fault divorce. New Jersey is a no-fault divorce state, meaning you only need to cite irreconcilable differences as the grounds for your divorce. Fault-based divorces tend to be significantly more contentious, expensive, and time-consuming.
- Keep the lines of communication open. You must continue communicating with your spouse productively and respectfully, particularly if you have children and need to resolve custody, child support, and parenting issues. Maintaining open lines of communication will help enable you to resolve your issues more quickly.
- Avoid unnecessary conflict. If you aim to expedite the divorce process, choose your battles wisely, and avoid picking unnecessary fights. This will only cause friction and potentially delay the process.
- Resolve less complicated disputes first. If you and your spouse can resolve as many disputes as possible outside of the courtroom, it will save time moving forward. Once you have reached an agreement on critical issues, put it in writing and have your divorce lawyer review the document, sign it, and move on to more complicated matters.
- Attend mediation. In New Jersey, couples seeking a divorce must attend court-mandated mediation. A mediator is a neutral third-party individual who will facilitate the negotiation process between you and your spouse. Unlike a judge or arbitrator who hears both sides and decides on a resolution, a mediator does not make decisions for the couple. It is less expensive and less time-consuming than litigation. Depending on your circumstances, you may be able to reach a divorce agreement through mediation.
Metuchen Divorce Lawyers at Wiley Lavender Maknoor, PC Help Clients Who Are Seeking an Expedited Divorce
If you and your spouse hope to reach a divorce agreement as soon as possible, do not hesitate to contact our Metuchen divorce lawyers at Wiley Lavender Maknoor, PC. We will assist you with every step of the divorce process. To schedule a free consultation, call us today at 732-494-6099 or contact us online. Located in Metuchen, New Jersey, we serve clients in Middlesex County, Monmouth County, Union County, and Somerset County.