How Long Does a Divorce Take in Texas? A Complete Guide for 2025
Divorce is stressful, and one of the first questions most people ask is:
“How long will this take?”
In Texas, the length of a divorce depends on several factors — including whether the case is contested, whether children are involved, and how quickly you and your spouse can resolve disagreements.
Below is a breakdown of how the process works and how long each type of divorce typically takes.
⭐ The 60-Day Waiting Period
Texas law requires a minimum 60-day waiting period from the date you file for divorce before a judge can finalize it.
This rule applies to all Texas divorces unless:
- There is family violence
- The responding spouse has been convicted of domestic abuse
In those situations, the waiting period may be waived.
✔ Fastest possible divorce: ~61 days
✔ Most common divorce length: 4–8 months
✔ Contested divorces: 9–18 months or longer
⭐ How Long Uncontested (Agreed) Divorces Take
If spouses agree on all terms, including:
- Property division
- Child custody
- Visitation
- Support
- Debts
- Personal property
…then the divorce can be finalized shortly after the 60-day waiting period.
⏳ Typical timeline: 2–3 months
Uncontested divorces move quickly because:
- No hearings are needed
- No mediation is required
- No discovery is necessary
- Both sides sign the final decree in advance
⭐ How Long Contested Divorces Take
Contested cases take longer due to:
- Disagreements over children
- Disputes about property
- Business or asset valuation
- Temporary orders hearings
- Mediation
- Discovery (financial documents, testimony)
⏳ Typical timeline: 6–18 months
More complicated cases — such as those involving custody battles, hidden assets, or protective orders — may take longer.
⭐ How to Speed Up Your Divorce
✔ Hire an attorney early
✔ Gather financial documents quickly
✔ Be prepared for mediation
✔ Avoid unnecessary court battles
✔ Be realistic about settlement options
The faster the parties agree, the faster the divorce ends.
⭐ When the 60-Day Rule Can Be Waived
A Texas judge may waive the waiting period if:
- There is a family violence conviction
- A protective order is in place
- There is an immediate safety concern
Your attorney can request a waiver in qualifying situations.
⭐ Need a Faster Divorce?
Our office handles both uncontested and contested divorces and can guide you through the process to avoid unnecessary delays.
