Written by Yonatan Levoritz on July 2, 2025
Beginning the divorce process in New York often raises plenty of important questions. How long does a divorce take in NY? That’s a question we hear time and again at The Levoritz Law Firm. The duration can vary widely; some divorces are completed in a few months, while others extend over several years, depending on the circumstances of each case.
In New York, the duration of a divorce depends on whether the process is contested or uncontested. Uncontested divorces, where both spouses agree on major issues like custody and property division, can typically conclude within three to six months. On the other hand, contested divorces, fraught with disputes over finances or parental responsibilities, can drag on for many months, sometimes years.
The average timeline for a divorce in New York is roughly three to six months for uncontested cases. These proceedings move swiftly because both parties are on the same page about critical matters, such as custody agreements, division of property, and spousal support. However, when disagreements arise, court involvement becomes necessary, adding several months, or even years, to the process depending on how complex the disputes are.
Contested divorces require discovery, depositions, motions, and sometimes trials, each contributing to significant delays. Factors such as the court’s schedule, attorney availability, and the complexity of issues can either shorten or lengthen the timeline considerably. When asking how long a divorce takes in NY, it is important to keep these aspects in mind, as they influence each stage of the legal proceedings.
Several factors determine how long it takes to finalize a divorce. The process often depends on the type of divorce and whether both spouses can quickly agree on key matters like custody, support, and property division.
When high-value assets, business interests, or complicated custody issues are involved, resolving the case takes longer due to detailed financial reviews and evaluations. Court schedules also impact the pace, with busy dockets often slowing proceedings.
Strong communication and cooperation between parties can shorten the process. Mediation is another option, helping couples reach agreements faster by avoiding lengthy court battles.
Having a lawyer to guide and organize each step can help move a divorce toward resolution more efficiently.
Understanding how long a divorce takes in New York regularly starts with examining the nature of the divorce itself and whether parties can reach an early agreement.
Yes, divorces involving children often take longer. Custody arrangements, visitation schedules, and child support agreements must be reached, which can involve lengthy evaluations and court hearings if not settled amicably.
The divorce process can become more complicated when high-value assets, shared businesses, or complex financial portfolios are involved. The more intricate the property and asset division, the longer the divorce is likely to take. Financial disclosures and valuations introduce additional steps that must be carefully navigated.
Before filing for divorce in New York, certain legal conditions must be met:
Meeting these legal requirements ensures the court has jurisdiction to proceed with your divorce case.
Several common obstacles can extend the divorce process:
To avoid unnecessary delays, it helps to:
Yes, alternative methods like mediation or collaborative divorce can shorten the process.
As noted by the New York State Unified Court System, a neutral third party called a mediator helps couples work through divorce issues to reach a mutually agreeable settlement. However, they caution that mediation may not be appropriate in cases involving domestic violence, substance abuse, or child neglect.
Collaborative divorce also prioritizes negotiation over confrontation, streamlining the process and reducing court time.
Working with a divorce lawyer provides clear advantages when aiming for a smoother and faster resolution. An attorney manages the legal filings, negotiates on your behalf, and ensures compliance with court requirements. Having knowledgeable guidance minimizes the risk of costly errors that could delay your case.
A lawyer also helps you decide when it’s better to reach an agreement and when it’s important to maintain your position, often leading to faster settlements and fewer court appearances.
Facing a divorce brings many uncertainties, including wondering how long does a divorce take in NY. While no two cases are exactly alike, understanding the typical timeline and what can influence it puts you in a better position to move forward with confidence.
At The Levoritz Law Firm, we understand the unique challenges of divorce and are committed to helping clients in New York City navigate the process with clarity and determination. Contact us today at (718) 942-4004.
Meet Yonatan Levoritz, the founder of Levoritz Law Firm, recognized for his exceptional skill in family law, his compassionate manner, and his commitment to achieving favorable outcomes for his clients. Yonatan Levoritz has a long record of winning challenging and complex cases.
This page has been written, edited, and reviewed by a team of legal writers following our comprehensive editorial guidelines. This page was approved by Founding Partner, Yonatan Levoritz who has more than 20 years of legal experience as a divorce & family attorney.
The information you obtain from this website is not, nor is it intended to be, legal advice. You should consult an attorney for advice regarding your individual situation.
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