Like discussing how much a divorce might cost, predicting the length of a divorce depends upon multiple factors. Texas law requires that a couple wait for a 60-day cooling off period before entering into a final divorce. That is the absolute quickest period of time within which a divorce can be completed in Texas.
Beyond the 60-day cooling off period, there is no black-and-white rule that determines the length of a divorce. The approach chosen by your attorney can certainly have an effect. Depending on his or her process, caseload, and general mentality, your divorce may move along at a rapid pace or may linger. At times, it will seem like nothing is happening. Sometimes, those pauses are because the parties are waiting for the lapse of deadlines, such as when information is due from another party, mediation and court dates to be scheduled, and the completion of custody, psychological or financial evaluations.
When parties are working together, sharing information, and attempting to find an equitable resolution, a divorce is resolved faster. In situations where the family is caught in high conflict, whether concerning the custody or treatment of children, dealing with ownership of the marital estate, or the relationship of the spouses is still winding down and transforming, a divorce is going to take more time. It is not always ideal to wrap things up quickly because sometimes the time within which the spouses are under temporary orders tells the court a lot about how those spouses might behave once under final orders. This is particularly informative in matters concerning the custody of children.
Finally, like determining the cost of a divorce, much is dependent upon the other spouse and their attorney. We can only control our approach and responses to the other side. With all this said, it is important to find an attorney who can balance costs and time with achieving great results.