How Long Does a Divorce Take in New York?
Trying to figure out how long a divorce is going to take in New York? Let me tell you, it’s not going to be a “quickie.” Under New York law, there is a mandatory waiting period of six months from the date the divorce papers are filed before a divorce can be finalized.
So, if you were hoping to end your marriage in a New York minute, you’ll have to adjust your expectations. The good news is that the waiting period can be waived in certain limited circumstances, such as if one spouse has been convicted of a felony or if there is a risk of domestic violence.
Factors Affecting the Length of a Divorce
Uncontested Divorce
An uncontested divorce is one in which both spouses agree on all of the terms of the divorce, including the division of assets and debts, child custody, and spousal support. Uncontested divorces are typically much faster than contested divorces, as there is no need for a trial or a lengthy negotiation process.
Contested Divorce
A contested divorce is one in which the spouses cannot agree on one or more of the terms of the divorce. In this case, the divorce will likely take longer to finalize, as the spouses will need to go through a trial or a mediation process to resolve their differences.
The length of a contested divorce will vary depending on the complexity of the issues involved and the willingness of the spouses to compromise. In some cases, a contested divorce can take several years to finalize.
Other Factors
In addition to whether the divorce is contested or uncontested, there are several other factors that can affect the length of a divorce, including:
- The availability of the court
- The complexity of the financial issues involved
- The presence of children
- The willingness of the spouses to cooperate
Tips for Expediting Your Divorce
Hire a Lawyer
One of the best ways to expedite your divorce is to hire a lawyer. A lawyer can help you navigate the legal process, negotiate with your spouse, and represent you in court if necessary. A divorce lawyer New York can help you save time and money in the long run by ensuring that your divorce is handled efficiently.
Be Prepared to Negotiate
If you want your divorce to be finalized quickly, you need to be prepared to negotiate with your spouse. This means being willing to compromise on some of the issues that are important to you. The more willing you are to negotiate, the faster your divorce will be finalized.
Be Cooperative
The more cooperative you are with your spouse during the divorce process, the faster it will be finalized. This means being willing to provide your spouse with the information they need, attending mediation sessions, and cooperating with the court’s orders. The more cooperative you are, the less likely it is that your divorce will become bogged down in unnecessary delays.
FAQs About Divorce in New York
Here are some of the most frequently asked questions about divorce in New York:
Q: What are the grounds for divorce in New York?
A: The grounds for divorce in New York are:
- Cruel and inhuman treatment
- Adultery
- Abandonment
- Imprisonment for three or more years
- Separation for one year or more
Q: How much does a divorce cost in New York?
A: The cost of a divorce in New York will vary depending on the complexity of the case. However, you can expect to pay several thousand dollars in legal fees. The actual cost will depend on a variety of factors, including the complexity of the case, the experience of the lawyer you hire, and the location of the court.
Q: Can I get a divorce without a lawyer?
A: It is possible to get a divorce without a lawyer, but it is not advisable. A lawyer can help you navigate the legal process, negotiate with your spouse, and represent you in court if necessary. Trying to get a divorce without a lawyer can be a costly mistake.
Conclusion
Now that you know what to expect in terms of time and cost, you can start planning for your divorce. If you are looking for a divorce lawyer in New York, contact our office today. We can help you get started on the divorce process and answer any questions you may have.
Are you interested in learning more about divorce in New York?
If so, please contact our office today. We would be happy to answer any questions you may have.
