How Long Does a Divorce Take in Massachusetts?

How Long Does a Divorce Take in Massachusetts?

Most couples want to wrap up their divorces in the shortest amount of time possible. Dealing with the stress and additional work of a separation is not easy, and spouses usually want to get on with their lives at the earliest opportunity. If you are heading into divorce for the first time, you might be wondering how long this overall process will take in Massachusetts.This is an important question, as the answer will allow you to plan for your future in a more effective manner.

Questions such as these are best left answered by a legal professional, such as our qualified divorce attorneys in Massachusetts. We can give you an estimate of how long your divorce will take, and we can help you stick to that timeline. Indeed, your choice of attorney will probably have an effect on how long your divorce will take.

The Time Frame Depends on Your Unique Circumstances
If you are wondering how long your divorce will take, you first need to consider the unique circumstances of your situation. Are you filing a contested divorce or an uncontested divorce? Are there children involved? Is the divorce amicable, or are there feelings of bitterness after the separation? Do you and your spouse disagree on major issues, such as property division and spousal support? These are all factors that could potentially slow down your divorce.

Contested vs. Uncontested Divorce
An uncontested divorce has the potential to be notably quicker compared to a contested divorce. When you choose uncontested divorce, you work with mediators, attorneys, and other experts to resolve matters through a process of collaborative law. This means that you avoid trial entirely. You and your spouse can create a separation agreement that goes over all of the most important aspects of your divorce, and this process can take as little as three months.

However, there is a certain degree of uncertainty when scheduling your hearing date, as there may be a backlog that causes delays in the courts. Once the judge signs off on your separation agreement, the temporary judgment of divorce will be entered within 30 days. Your divorce will become final within 90 days following this judgment. So all in all, you could wrap up your uncontested divorce within seven months.

Contested divorces take much longer because trials involve longer wait times. In addition, these divorces often involve disputes over child custody, property division, and many other potential sources of conflict that can take time to resolve. If you have chosen an uncontested divorce, you can expect it to take around 14 months to resolve.

Enlist the Help of a Qualified Attorney Today
Choosing the right attorney will help speed up your divorce. If you have been searching for aqualified, experienced divorce attorney in Massachusetts, look no further than the Law Offices of Johnson, Sclafani & Moriarty. While speed is important, we also recognize the need to handle your divorce in an efficient, detail-oriented manner. With our help, you can finalize your divorce in an expedited manner while overcoming any challenges along the way. Book your consultation today. 413-732-8356