If you’re considering divorce in Texas, one of the first questions on your mind is likely: "How long is this going to take?" The short answer is—it depends. The long answer? Let’s break it down.
By law, Texas requires a minimum 60-day waiting period after you file your petition for divorce. This means even if everything is agreed upon, you can’t finalize the divorce before 60 days have passed.
Exceptions: In rare cases—such as family violence—this waiting period may be waived by the court.
While 60 days is the minimum, most divorces take much longer. Here's why:
Uncontested Divorce: Both parties agree on all terms—property division, custody, support.
Estimated time: 2 to 3 months
Contested Divorce: Disagreements must be negotiated or resolved in court.
Estimated time: 6 months to 1+ year
Custody, visitation, and child support often require additional documentation, hearings, and sometimes professional evaluations.
If you and your spouse own a business, multiple properties, or retirement accounts, valuation and division can slow the process.
Some counties in Texas have busier dockets than others. If your court is backlogged, getting a hearing or trial date can take months.
Many courts require you to try mediation before setting a trial. While this can help avoid litigation, it does add time.
Here’s a general idea of how long different divorce types may take:
| Type of Divorce | Estimated Timeframe |
|---|---|
| Uncontested | 2–3 months |
| Moderately Contested | 4–8 months |
| Highly Contested | 9–18+ months |
While you can’t control everything, having a knowledgeable attorney can help streamline the process, avoid delays, and keep your goals front and center.
If you’re facing divorce in Texas, We're here to guide you every step of the way.
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