If you are facing a divorce in Massachusetts, you might expect a prolonged, painful process, but it doesn’t have to be that way. Many couples are surprised to learn that they can dissolve their marriage quickly while still safeguarding their rights and interests. If you want to know how to speed up the divorce process, you’ll want to continue reading and contact our determined Bristol County Divorce Lawyers today.
How Long Does a Divorce Take in Massachusetts?
In Massachusetts, the length of time it will take to resolve a divorce depends on several factors. Factors that can impact the time it takes to finalize a divorce include whether there are children involved, the complexity of dividing assets and debts, the level of cooperation between spouses, and the court schedule.
When spouses cannot agree on the key aspects of the divorce, like property division, child custody, or spousal support, it can lead to protracted legal battles. When both parties are willing to compromise, the divorce can be resolved faster. That said, a contested divorce typically takes no longer than 12 months from the time the complaint is filed to resolve, but certain factors can extend the process. An uncontested divorce, on the other hand, can be resolved in three to six months. Nevertheless, every situation is unique, so the time can vary significantly based on your specific circumstances.
What is the Best Way to Get a Fast Divorce?
If you want to expedite the process, the best approach is to opt for an uncontested divorce, in which both parties agree on all the terms that will apply to the termination of the marriage. This will minimize court involvement and allow for a quicker resolution.
In Massachusetts, you can file either a fault-based or no-fault divorce. If you are filing based on fault, you must establish certain grounds and prove the other is responsible for the marriage ending. With a no-fault divorce, no blame is assigned to either party. Therefore, without the need to prove fault, spouses can achieve a faster divorce as it can take substantial time to prove a party’s misconduct.
If you and your spouse agree on some but not all matters, you should consider divorce mediation. This process can help you resolve your disputed issues and facilitate reaching a mutually beneficial settlement agreement. Mediation can take anywhere from a few weeks to a few months, depending on the unique circumstances of each couple.
Nevertheless, the best way to achieve a fast divorce is by consulting a seasoned attorney who can help you avoid mistakes that can create animosity and delays. At the Law Offices of Cynthia L. Hanley, P.C., we are prepared to assist you in determining the best legal path and guide you through this complex process. Connect with our firm today for more information.
