When you have made the decision to end your marriage, it is natural to want the divorce process to conclude quickly. However, the length of a divorce proceeding can vary widely. It depends on many factors, some of which are beyond your control.
Understanding these potential hurdles can help you manage expectations and navigate the complexities of the divorce process more effectively.
Disagreements on major issues
One of the most common reasons why divorces take a long time to finalize is disagreements between the parties. Issues such as child custody, spousal support, division of property and debts can often become contentious. If you and your spouse cannot agree on these matters, it can significantly delay the process as you try to negotiate or await a judge’s decision.
A complex financial situation
If you or your spouse has a complex financial situation, such as owning a business, having substantial assets or owing large debts, it can complicate the divorce process. The division of these assets and liabilities will require careful consideration and possibly expert advice, which can extend the timeline of your divorce.
Reluctance or uncooperativeness of one party
If one party is uncooperative or simply does not want the divorce, it can cause significant delays. Failure to provide necessary documents, evading the service of papers or refusal to negotiate can lengthen the time it takes to finalize the divorce.
Court backlog
Court systems can sometimes become overloaded with cases, causing a delay in the processing of your divorce. The time it takes for a court to schedule hearings and trials, or for a judge to make a decision, can potentially slow down your divorce process.
Mandatory waiting period
In North Carolina, there is a mandatory waiting period of one year of physical separation before a couple can apply for a divorce. This means that even in the most straightforward and amicable cases, you still have to wait for this period to pass before you can proceed with the divorce.
The process of finalizing a divorce in North Carolina can take a considerable amount of time. Remain patient, learn about the process and keep your focus on the end goal: Successfully starting a new chapter in your life. Remember, each step you take gets you closer to the resolution of the process.