Ending a marriage is rarely a quick or simple process. One of the most common questions people ask when considering divorce is how long it will take to finalize everything. The answer depends on several factors, including whether the divorce is contested, whether children are involved, and how quickly both spouses can reach agreements.
In Ohio, some divorces can be completed in a matter of weeks, while others may take many months or even longer. Understanding the typical timeline can help you set realistic expectations and prepare for the legal process ahead.
The Difference Between Divorce and Dissolution
In Ohio, couples actually have two primary ways to legally end a marriage: divorce and dissolution of marriage. The timeline can vary significantly depending on which option applies.
A dissolution of marriage is usually the faster process. In a dissolution, both spouses already agree on all major issues, including:
- Division of property and debts
- Child custody and parenting time
- Child support
- Spousal support (if any)
Once the couple files a joint petition with the court, Ohio law requires the court to schedule a hearing between 30 and 90 days after filing. If the judge approves the agreement at that hearing, the marriage can be officially dissolved that same day.
Because both parties are already in agreement, a dissolution can often be completed in one to three months.
A divorce, on the other hand, typically takes longer because the spouses may disagree about key issues.
How Long a Contested Divorce May Take
When couples cannot agree on the terms of ending their marriage, the case proceeds as a traditional divorce. In these situations, the court may need to resolve disputes involving property, finances, or parenting arrangements.
A contested divorce in Ohio often takes six months to a year, and sometimes longer if the case is particularly complex.
Several steps may occur during this process, including:
- Filing the divorce complaint
- Serving the papers on the other spouse
- Filing responses and counterclaims
- Temporary orders for custody or finances
- Discovery, where both sides exchange information
- Negotiations or mediation
- Court hearings or trial if no agreement is reached
The more issues that must be resolved by a judge, the longer the case may take.
Factors That Can Affect the Timeline
No two divorces follow exactly the same path. A number of factors can influence how long the process takes.
- Level of conflict between spouses.
If both spouses are willing to negotiate and compromise, the case may move forward more quickly. High-conflict cases tend to take longer.
- Children and custody issues.
When minor children are involved, the court must ensure that custody and parenting plans are in the child’s best interests. This can require additional hearings, evaluations, or mediation.
- Complex finances or property.
Dividing significant assets—such as businesses, retirement accounts, or multiple properties—may require financial documentation, appraisals, or expert analysis.
- Court scheduling.
Each county court has its own schedule and caseload. In busy courts, it may take longer to secure hearing dates.
Waiting Periods and Legal Requirements
Ohio law also includes certain procedural requirements that affect timing.
For example, once a divorce complaint is filed, the other spouse must be properly served with the paperwork. They then have time to respond before the case moves forward.
In addition, courts often encourage or require mediation in cases involving child custody disputes. Mediation can sometimes help parents reach agreements more quickly, but it may also add additional steps to the process.
Can You Speed Up the Divorce Process?
While you cannot eliminate every delay, there are ways to help keep the process moving.
Some helpful steps include:
- Providing financial documents promptly
- Communicating clearly with your attorney
- Being open to negotiation where possible
- Considering mediation to resolve disputes
When both spouses focus on resolving issues rather than escalating them, cases often settle faster and with less stress.
Getting Guidance During an Ohio Divorce
Divorce can affect nearly every aspect of your life—from finances to parenting arrangements. Even when the process seems straightforward, legal guidance can help ensure that your rights and long-term interests are protected.
At David Shook, we help individuals throughout the Toledo area understand their options and navigate the Ohio divorce process with clarity and confidence.
If you are considering divorce or have questions about how long your case may take, contact us today to speak with an experienced family law attorney who can help you better understand what to expect and how to move forward.
