More often than not, divorce gets a bad rap, surrounded by negative connotations, with nightmares of them always being long, drawn-out, and draining. For many couples, however, it doesn’t have to be like that. You may wonder, “How long can an amicable divorce take in Riverside, CA?” The answer can vary.
Understanding the Basics: Amicable Divorce in Riverside
Amicable divorces can also be referred to as an uncontested divorce, which takes place when couples come to a consensus without any drawn-out, strenuous litigation. Without question, divorces of this kind often go more quickly, less stressfully, and with lower financial impacts. At the same time, California mandates a waiting period before the finalization of a divorce, even if both partners are in complete agreement.
According to data from 2022, California’s divorce rate is nearly 6 per 1,000 women. If both parties can find common ground regarding child custody, division of property, and overall support, the divorce process can proceed more smoothly and painlessly. Other factors that can influence the duration of the process include California’s divorce laws and the schedules of the courts.
Working with skilled Riverside divorce attorneys can ensure divorce processes are conducted efficiently and in a timely manner. Oftentimes, cases are handled in the Corona Courthouse—located at 505 S. Buena Vista Ave. #201, Corona, CA 92882.
Six-Month Waiting Period: California’s Divorce Cases
Riverside divorce laws follow the guidance of state family laws. California Family Code § 2339 specifies a waiting period of six months, referred to as a “cooling down,” before a divorce is finalized. This period is required regardless of the divorce being amicable or not. By design, the waiting period is meant to provide couples with more time to make amends, if they so choose.
Oftentimes, however, the waiting period is spent finalizing agreements and completing any necessary documents. From completely amicable to ruthlessly contested, this six-month waiting period is the minimum duration of a divorce before a dissolution judgment can be made.
Common Factors Affecting Amicable Divorces
As previously mentioned, the six-month waiting period is a fixed requirement, and multiple other factors can either quicken or delay the overall process:
- Processing times of courts – Riverside County courts can experience backlogs that influence the timeliness of case finalizations.
- Paperwork intricacies – As is the case with most things, filing mistakes can create delays. That is where a meticulous and experienced divorce attorney can be quite helpful.
- The division of property – If couples have major assets, more time may be needed to construct agreements, regardless of whether the divorce is amicable or contested.
- The involvement of children – The arrangements of child support and custody can be the most complicated part of any divorce.
- Support for Spouses – The terms of spousal support can mandate further documents and more time needed.
Proactively acknowledging these factors can streamline the divorce process before the waiting period concludes.
Advancing Amicable Divorces: Why Choose Us
With more than 30 years of diverse experience, the team of divorce attorneys at the Law Offices of Schwartz & Godbey has an abundance of knowledge to call upon when approaching the myriad of cases that come up in Riverside, CA. Some of our service areas in divorce cases include:
- Drafting, reviewing, and submitting settlement terms and agreements
- Confirming all processes comply with Riverside divorce laws
- Bypassing expensive errors that could delay processes
- Representing you if any issues transpire
In any divorce, having the support of a dependable divorce attorney can transform a normally strenuous and taxing situation into one that is manageable.
For a streamlined and amicable divorce in Riverside:
- Communication is key – Ensuring all communications are open and cordial can prevent misunderstandings and maintain alignment.
- Outstanding organization makes a difference – Having clean records of all things involving finances, property, child custody, and other documents can keep processes streamlined.
- Mediation can be used – If necessary, a neutral party acting as a mediator can help certify final details without escalating conflicts.
- Work with an attorney from our firm – Professional guidance from one of our team members can ensure that all documentation is precise and valid.
At the Law Offices of Schwartz & Godbey, we find that these steps are common occurrences in efficient, amicable divorce proceedings.
FAQs
Q: What Factors Can Delay an Amicable Divorce in Riverside?
A: There are a few factors that can delay an amicable divorce in Riverside, even after the mandatory six-month waiting period. During this period, issues can typically arise. For example, paperwork can be left incomplete or filled out incorrectly. Disagreements can brew over property division or matters involving children. A talented divorce attorney can assist in preparing you for possible obstacles and give you strategies to avoid them.
Q: Can Mediation Speed Up an Amicable Divorce in California?
A: Yes, mediation can streamline an amicable divorce in California by limiting the space for out-of-court issues or disagreements to grow. Coming to a consensus through an objective mediator can avoid additional, drawn-out delays, hearings, or disputes. Even in amicable divorces, California’s required six-month waiting period still applies—mediation just works to improve communications outside of court, so things can proceed following the mandatory wait.
Q: What Is the Fastest You Can Get Divorced in California?
A: The fastest you can get divorced in California is six months, which is the state’s specified waiting period. Even if it’s the perfect situation, where the couple is in complete agreement on all matters, they must wait the required six months before finalization. This waiting period is designed to give couples more time to reconcile, if they decide that is what they want.
Q: How Much Does an Amicable Divorce Cost in California?
A: In the state of California, the cost of an amicable divorce can vary depending on filing fees, the cost of a lawyer, applicable court fees, and any other related expenses. When you factor in potential further costs, such as fees for mediation in the event the divorce becomes contentious, costs can be higher than you might expect.
Divorce Amicably: Reach Out to the Law Offices of Schwartz & Godbey
If you and your spouse have both come to the decision to pursue a divorce for the betterment of both of you, your next move is to reach out to our team to schedule a consultation and discuss your case.
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