How Long Does a Divorce Take? Your Most Common Questions Answered

One of the first questions we hear from clients is:

"How long is my divorce actually going to take?"

It's a completely understandable question. Whether you're ready to move on with your life, planning your finances, or want certainty about what's ahead, knowing what to expect can make the process feel much less overwhelming.

The short answer is that most divorces take around 7-9 months from the date the application is issued, provided everything runs smoothly. However, if there are disagreements about finances or arrangements for children, those issues can continue after the divorce itself has been finalised.

In this guide, we'll explain the typical divorce timeline, what can delay the process, and answer the questions people ask us most often.

How Long Does a Divorce Take in England and Wales?

Since the introduction of no-fault divorce, the process is generally much more straightforward than it used to be.

A typical divorce follows this timeline:

• Divorce application submitted
• 20-week reflection period
• Application for the Conditional Order
• Conditional Order granted
• Six-week waiting period
• Application for the Final Order

In most cases, this means the legal divorce takes at least 26 weeks, but once processing times at court are taken into account, around 7-9 months is a realistic expectation.

It is important to remember that this is only the divorce itself.

If finances still need to be resolved, those negotiations or court proceedings can take considerably longer.

Why Is There a 20-Week Waiting Period?

Many people are surprised to discover they cannot divorce immediately after submitting the application.

The law requires a 20-week reflection period before you can apply for the Conditional Order.

The purpose of this is to give couples time to reflect on their decision and, if necessary, begin resolving important issues such as:

• Financial arrangements
• The family home
• Pensions
• Child arrangements

Although many couples have already made their decision by this stage, the waiting period is now a mandatory part of every divorce.

Can We Get Divorced Faster?

Generally, no.

The statutory time limits cannot be shortened, regardless of how long you've been separated or whether both parties agree to the divorce.

Even if everything is amicable, you must still complete the required waiting periods before the divorce can be finalised.

What Can Delay a Divorce?

While the legal process is relatively straightforward, several things can slow matters down.

Delays in responding

If your spouse takes time to acknowledge the application or there are issues with serving the divorce papers, the process may take longer.

Court processing times

Although many divorces progress quickly, processing times can vary depending on the court's workload.

Financial matters

One of the biggest misconceptions is that the divorce and financial settlement are the same thing.

They are not.

You can be legally divorced while still negotiating how assets, pensions, savings and property will be divided.

In many cases, the financial proceedings actually take longer than the divorce itself.

Should I Wait Until My Finances Are Resolved?

Often, yes.

Many solicitors recommend waiting before applying for the Final Order if financial matters have not yet been concluded.

This is because obtaining the Final Order can affect certain financial rights, including pension and inheritance rights in some circumstances.

Every case is different, so it is always sensible to obtain legal advice before making that decision.

Does Getting Divorced Decide Who Gets the House?

No.

The divorce only legally ends the marriage.

It does not decide:

• Who keeps the family home
• How savings are divided
• What happens to pensions
• Whether maintenance should be paid

These issues are dealt with separately through financial negotiations or financial remedy proceedings if an agreement cannot be reached.

Can We Stay Married While Sorting Out Finances?

Yes.

In fact, this is very common.

Many couples begin the divorce process, negotiate their finances during the 20-week reflection period, and only apply for the Final Order once the court has approved a financial agreement.

Doing so can provide additional financial protection while matters are being resolved.

Does a Divorce Affect Arrangements for the Children?

No.

The divorce process itself has no impact on where children live or how much time they spend with each parent.

If parents cannot agree child arrangements, these are dealt with separately.

You may find our guides on Specific Issue Orders, and Prohibited Steps Orders useful if this applies to your situation.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can my spouse refuse to divorce me?

In almost all cases, no.

Under the no-fault divorce system, one spouse cannot prevent the divorce simply because they do not want it.

Do we have to go to court?

Usually not.

Most divorces are dealt with online or on paper without anyone attending court.

Court hearings are generally only needed if there are disputes about finances or children.

Can we use the same solicitor?

No.

A solicitor can only act for one party.

However, if you both agree on everything, one solicitor can prepare the necessary paperwork while the other party receives independent legal advice if required.

What if we've already been separated for years?

You still need to follow the same divorce process.

The length of your separation does not remove the statutory waiting periods.

Final Thoughts

Although every family's circumstances are different, the divorce process itself is now more straightforward than ever before.

The biggest delays often come not from the divorce application itself, but from resolving finances or child arrangements.

If you're thinking about starting divorce proceedings, understanding the process from the outset can help you plan and avoid unnecessary stress.

Obtaining legal advice early can also help ensure that important financial decisions are made at the right stage of the process.

Need Advice About Divorce?

If you're considering divorce or have questions about the process, our experienced family law team can explain your options, guide you through each stage, and help you move matters forward as smoothly as possible.

Whether you're just beginning to think about separation or you're ready to start the divorce process, we're here to help.