How Long Does a California Divorce Take? The Short Answer: Forever (Kinda)
So, you’re thinking about divorcing your better half in the Golden State, huh? Well, buckle up, because this is gonna be a rollercoaster. Not the fun, amusement park kind, but more like the "I-want-to-get-off-this-crazy-ride" kind.
The Six-Month Waiting Period: A Cruel Joke?
California has this brilliant idea that you have to wait six months after filing for divorce before it can be finalized. Six months! That’s like asking a cat to wait for its dinner. Or a toddler to share their toys. Good luck with that. This waiting period is supposedly to give you time to “cool off.” But let’s be real, if you’re at the point of filing for divorce, you’re probably steaming hotter than a California desert.
Factors That Can Make Your Divorce Last Longer Than a Kardashian Marriage
- Contested vs. Uncontested: If you and your ex can agree on everything (like who gets the remote control), then you might be able to speed things up. But if you’re fighting over who gets the last slice of pizza, well, let’s just say it could get messy.
- Kids Involved: Child custody and support arrangements can be a major sticking point. And let’s not forget about visitation schedules that can turn into a game of chess.
- Money, Money, Money: Dividing up assets and debts can be a real headache. Especially if one person spent the entire savings on avocado toast.
- Lawyers: If you’re lucky enough to find lawyers who actually care about your case, you might be able to move things along. But if you end up with a pair of bumbling idiots, prepare for a long, drawn-out process.
So, How Long Does It REALLY Take?
The short answer is: it depends. It can be as quick as six months if everything goes smoothly. But let’s be honest, when has anything ever gone smoothly in a divorce? More realistically, it could take anywhere from a year to several years. And in some extreme cases, it can drag on for decades. So, if you’re planning your life post-divorce, maybe don’t quit your day job just yet.
How To…
- How to speed up your divorce: Try to be reasonable, compromise when possible, and hire a good lawyer.
- How to stay sane during the process: Practice self-care, surround yourself with supportive friends, and maybe invest in a good therapist.
- How to avoid divorce: Communicate openly and honestly, seek couples counseling, and remember that no one is perfect.
- How to find a good divorce lawyer: Ask for recommendations, read reviews, and schedule consultations with multiple attorneys.
- How to move on after a divorce: Give yourself time to heal, focus on rebuilding your life, and don’t be afraid to start dating again.
Remember, divorce is a tough process, but it’s also a chance to start a new chapter. So try to stay positive and focus on the future. And if all else fails, just remember that there’s always therapy.