It’s usually one of the first things people ask when they start thinking about divorce: “How long will this actually take?”
The truth is, there isn’t one set answer. A straightforward divorce where both sides agree might take around six to eight months, but that’s only a ballpark. Some cases are wrapped up quicker, others drag on much longer. It all depends on the situation.
What Can Slow Things Down?
A few common factors play a part:
- Paperwork – the sooner forms are filled in and sent, the better.
- Whether you agree – if both of you are on the same page, it keeps things moving.
- Money and children – disagreements here often add weeks, sometimes months.
- The court’s workload – delays aren’t always down to you. Sometimes it’s just the system being busy.
The Main Stages
Here’s the rough journey most people go through:
- Application – one or both of you submit the request to end the marriage.
- Reflection period – by law there’s a 20-week wait before the next step. It’s time to think things through.
- Conditional Order – the court gives the green light for the divorce to move forward.
- Final Order – this makes everything official.
A Story That Might Sound Familiar
Take Sarah and Tom. They’d been married a decade and had two kids. When they decided to split, Sarah worried about money, while Tom stressed over what would happen with the house.
They filed in January with a joint application, which kept things fairly smooth. By March, during the reflection period, they used the time to sort out practical stuff — the house, savings, school plans.
There were still tense conversations (like whether Tom should move out straight away or stay until summer), but because they knew the steps and the timeline, they avoided going round in circles. By August, they reached the Conditional Order, and not long after, the Final Order made it official.
Of course, not everyone’s experience is this tidy. If they’d disagreed on money or childcare, things could have dragged on. But their story shows how cooperation and clear advice can save a lot of stress.
Getting Help Along the Way
Divorce isn’t just legal paperwork — it’s emotional, and it often feels overwhelming. Having the right support can make the process far less daunting.
At Lund Bennett Law, we help people through every stage. We explain the steps in plain English, give clear advice, and guide you through the decisions you’ll need to make.
Knowing what’s ahead — and having someone in your corner — makes a difficult process a lot more manageable.