Rating 4, 9 (8) · In Georgia, a divorce can be finalized as soon as 31 days due to the mandatory 30-day waiting period, which is one of the shortest in the United States. A divorce in Georgia can take anywhere from 31 days to several years, depending on the type of divorce and other factors. If both spouses are willing to cooperate in their divorce, the resolution usually takes between six months and a year. If one or both spouses are in conflict, resolving the divorce may take several years.
Most disagreements stem from disputes over money, property, child custody, court delays, custody evaluations, asset valuation, and delays caused by a slowly responding spouse. Mediation services can help keep this process civil and resolve the divorce more quickly. In an uncontested divorce, both spouses agree to all of the terms, including the division of assets, custody, and maintenance. This type of divorce is usually faster and more cost-effective, since there is no need for a lengthy court battle.
After a waiting period of 31 days, an uncontested divorce can be finalized within 45 to 60 days, although court schedules may cause slight delays. The length of a divorce can vary greatly and depends on numerous factors, such as the complexity of the case and the level of cooperation between the spouses. On average, an uncontested divorce where both parties agree on all terms can take as little as 31 days. This process is often faster because it involves less paperwork and fewer court appearances.
Georgia divorce laws require that at least one spouse be a resident of the state for 6 months. Divorce in Georgia isn't based on fault, and the most common reason is irreconcilable differences, meaning that the parties simply can't get along and their marriage has come to an end. Other grounds for divorce in Georgia include adultery, habitual intoxication, and abandonment. Georgia courts require a 30-day waiting period after filing for divorce so that the couple can reconcile.
In these cases, custody evaluations and investigations by guardians ad litem (GAL) may be required to assess the best interests of the child, significantly extending the divorce period. Whether you're just starting to consider a divorce or are already in the middle of a process, we're here to provide you with the support and guidance you need. In addition, hiring the services of a local divorce attorney can help streamline the process by ensuring that all necessary documents are filed accurately and on time. While there is no such thing as a “quick divorce”, Georgia offers options to expedite the process.
A no-fault divorce affirms an “irreparable break” of the marriage, which often makes it easier to obtain it without court disputes. Late case evaluation: After 120 days or more, the court may hold a consultation on the status of the divorce to determine if the divorce is likely to be settled or if it is on its way to trial. Under Georgia law, the only requirement for filing for divorce is that both parties must suspend “marital relations” with the intention of divorcing. A number of factors can significantly extend the length of a divorce in Georgia, particularly in cases with complex issues or limited cooperation between spouses. After filing for a divorce in Georgia, it usually takes a few days to a few weeks for the other spouse to receive the divorce documents.
The time it will take for your divorce to be processed may vary depending on the details of your case. By filing a divorce action in Georgia, you submit to the court's jurisdiction. In uncontested cases, that is, a case that has been resolved between the parties without the need for court intervention, a divorce is granted after all necessary documentation has been submitted to the court. Standing Orders: Upon filing for divorce, the court will automatically issue standing orders that prohibit either spouse from engaging in conduct such as emptying bank accounts or removing children from jurisdiction.
