How Long Does it Take to Get a Divorce in New York City?


How long it takes to get a divorce in New YorkIf you've had enough of your spouse you're probably thinking it's time to get divorced and the first question that comes to your mind is “how long does it take to get a divorce in New York City?” If this question has crossed your mind you're not alone; thousands of people who want to get divorced every year in New York City want to know how long it's going to take. A New York divorce lawyer from Sabra Law Group shares what you can expect. The first thing to understand is that there are two types of divorces in New York City. One option is an uncontested divorce and the other a contested divorce. Let's explore both options in detail below so you can evaluate your options.

 

What is an Uncontested Divorce in NY?

 

In an uncontested divorce both spouses need to come to an agreement together on all of the issues to settle their divorce including how their property, assets and debts will be divided, child custody, visitation, child support, spousal support and any other details relevant to the divorce. In an uncontested divorce the process can be more streamlined and therefore the divorce may be wrapped up quicker than in a contested divorce.

 

If your goal is to move on with your life quickly then you might consider an uncontested divorce.  Or, maybe you already know that you don't want to drag out the divorce because of expensive legal fees then you may also opt for an uncontested divorce in New York.  It could also involve divorce mediation sessions and still be considered an uncontested divorce so long as the mediation successfully results in an agreement on all of the issues.  Even if it takes multiple mediation sessions, as long as you reach agreement, it is still an uncontested divorce not requiring intervention by a judge.  Coming to an amicable agreement can take a while sometimes!

 

What is a Contested Divorce in New York?

 

On the other hand, a contested divorce involves couples who have unresolved issues that they cannot resolve on their own or with the assistance of a divorce mediator. Having many unresolved issues can definitely complicate the divorce process but they do not necessarily mean that it will be contested divorce.

 

It is completely normal for some couples to not be able to agree on financial matters, parenting plans, spousal support, distribution of real estate, personal property, and other financial issues. A contested divorce in New York requires the intervention of a judge and court.  

 

Each divorce situation and case is unique, but it is normal for a contested divorce to take a year or even much longer depending on the complexity of the divorce.

 

What Are Some Other Factors That Impact How Long it Will Take to Get a Divorce in New York City?

 

After the COVID pandemic courts can be backlogged and in a big city like New York, courts can be backlogged for many months.

 

If both parties are willing to negotiate and work with each other then that can help speed up the divorce process. If it's possible to get both spouses on the same page for some of the bigger divorce issues and focus on solutions rather than arguments, it can help expedite the entire divorce process.

 

Are There Complicated Assets to Sort Through in the Divorce?

 

Another factor to consider is what type of assets and debts were acquired during the marriage and this may even involve assets that came prior to the marriage. The duration of the divorce will depend on how complex these assets are. Keep in mind that dividing complex assets equally can take a lot of negotiating and delay the divorce process.

 

Get Guidance from a Skilled New York Divorce Mediator

 

Divorce is stressful enough but having to go at it all alone is not something you have to do! Sabra Law Group is here to help you every step of the way and answer your divorce questions so that you can make the right decision for you and your family. Call Sabra Law Group today at (646) 472-7971.

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