Every Divorce Is Different
Matrimonial attorneys are frequently asked by clients how long their divorce will take. A good attorney will only tell you the factors that can influence the timeline. In truth, no one can predict how long your divorce case will take, especially if it is contested.
Every divorce is unique and thus will have a different timeline. Uncontested divorces where the spouses agree on all issues can take as little as a few months, while contested divorce cases can easily take over a year. To better understand how a contested divorce case can take so long, you should understand the contributing factors. Here are a few factors that can influence the timeline of your contested divorce:
Disagreements. If you and your spouse disagree on any issues in the divorce, your attorneys will attempt to negotiate with each other on your behalf. These negotiations can take some time. And, if they aren’t successful, the matter will need to go to mediation or trial. Both of these processes take time as well. The divorce may take less time if the spouses cooperate.
Information gathering. You and your spouse will both need to gather information and documents that provide the information needed to work out the terms and conditions of your divorce. For example, you both might need to gather pay stubs, bank statements, and tax returns. Gathering, reviewing, organizing, and exchanging all this information takes time. Since this is one of the most important parts of the divorce, it is best to not rush this process.
Custody disputes. If you do not agree on custody, you may need to get testimony from teachers, doctors, or psychologists who can recommend what is best for your child. They may have to conduct a formal evaluation to assess factors like your child’s needs and the fitness of each parent. Although these can take several months to be completed, they shouldn’t be rushed.
Speak with an experienced New Jersey divorce attorney if you have questions about the divorce process in New Jersey. Many factors can influence the timeline of your divorce, and an attorney can explain these to you. If you are concerned about how long your divorce will take, it is a good idea to develop a plan of action early on. A skilled New Jersey attorney can help you devise a plan of action for your case so you can avoid some of the pitfalls of the divorce process.
Do you need to file for divorce in New Jersey? If so, Williams Law Group, LLC can assist you. The skilled attorneys at Williams Law Group, LLC will help you navigate the New Jersey divorce process. Located in Union, New Jersey, Williams Law Group, LLC provides compassionate and dedicated legal services to Union, Bergen, Essex, Hudson, Morris, Monmouth, and Middlesex counties, and the surrounding areas. Our knowledgeable attorneys handle divorce and family law, child custody, and child abuse/neglect cases. Call our office at (908) 810-1083, email us at info@awilliamslawgroup.com, or contact us through our confidential online form to schedule a consultation and ultimately get you connected with an experienced New Jersey divorce and child custody attorney.