One of the first questions people ask when considering divorce is:
"How long will this take?"
In Texas, the answer depends on several factors—including whether your divorce is contested or uncontested, whether children or complex assets are involved, and how cooperative both parties are throughout the process.
At Haugen Law Firm, P.C. we guide clients across Denton County, Collin County, Cooke County, Dallas County, and Tarrant County through every step of the divorce process. Below, we explain the key timelines and what can impact how long your Texas divorce takes.
Minimum Waiting Period: 60 Days
Texas law requires a mandatory 60-day waiting period from the date the divorce petition is filed until it can be finalized. This is the shortest possible timeframe and is intended to give couples time to reconsider or resolve issues. However, the 60-day period may be waived if there is a history of domestic violence or a protective order is in place.
Uncontested Divorce Timeline: 2–4 Months (Typically)
If both spouses agree on all key issues—like property division, child custody, and support—you may be able to finalize your divorce soon after the 60-day period ends.
Steps in an Uncontested Divorce:
- File the petition and serve your spouse (or they waive service)
- Exchange required disclosures (e.g., financial information)
- Draft and sign a final divorce decree
- Attend a short court hearing (in many counties)
- Judge signs the decree and finalizes the divorce
This process often takes 2–4 months, assuming there are no delays or complications.
Contested Divorce Timeline: 6 Months to 1+ Year
If spouses disagree on any major issue, the divorce is considered contested and can take significantly longer to resolve.
Common causes of delays:
- Disputes over child custody or visitation
- Disagreements about how to divide property or debts
- Discovery process (gathering financial documents, depositions)
- Multiple court hearings or mediation attempts
If the case goes to trial, the process may stretch 9–18 months or longer—especially in busy counties with crowded court dockets.
Special Timelines for Child-Related Cases
If children are involved, the court may require:
- Parenting classes
- Temporary orders hearings for custody or support
- Mediation before trial
- Detailed parenting plans
These steps can add weeks or months to the timeline, depending on how quickly agreements are reached.
What Can You Do to Speed Up the Process?
- Cooperate and communicate with your spouse when possible
- Respond quickly to legal requests or court deadlines
- Work with an experienced attorney who can guide you efficiently
- Be prepared with financial documents and parenting proposals early in the process
Let Haugen Law Firm P.C. Help You Move Forward
Every divorce is different—but the right legal team can help reduce delays, resolve conflict, and protect what matters most to you.
At Haugen Law Firm, P.C., we’re proud to serve families and individuals across Denton, Collin, Cooke, Dallas, and Tarrant Counties with trusted legal guidance in family law, criminal defense, and estate planning. If you have questions about your legal rights or need personalized support, our dedicated team is here to help. Contact us today!