Divorce in 15 Minutes: The Crash Course

No jargon. No fluff. Here’s the divorce process boiled down so you can make your next move without second-guessing everything.

Step 1 — Figure Out Your Track

• Uncontested: You both agree on money, property, and parenting. Fastest path; some places finalize without a hearing.
• By Summons (contested or no signatures): One files, the other is formally served; timelines vary.
• By Publication: Can’t find your spouse after a good-faith search? You may publish legal notice instead of personal service.

Step 2 — Papers, Signatures, Service

Every track needs forms done right. Uncontested often means both sign; summons requires service by a process server; publication follows a documented search + newspaper notice.

Step 3 — Waiting & What Actually Delays Cases

• Missing forms or errors
• Service problems or address issues
• Court backlog and judge availability
• Parenting classes or evaluations (when required)

Step 4 — Timelines (Ballpark)

• Uncontested, no hearing: weeks not months in many places
• By Publication: often around a few months (publication + court queue)
• By Summons: months (discovery, mediation, hearings)

Step 5 — Smart Moves That Save Time

• Use a shared checklist; submit complete packets
• Respond quickly to clerk or court requests
• Keep communication short, written, and specific
• Take required classes early

FAQ

Do I need a lawyer?

Not always, but legal advice is valuable if you have disagreements, safety concerns, or complex assets.

Do I have to go to court?

Some uncontested cases finalize without a hearing. Others require short hearings; it depends on local rules and your case type.

Information only, not legal advice. For legal questions, talk to a licensed attorney in your state.