How Fast Can You Get a Divorce in Texas?
When someone decides to divorce, one of the first questions they ask is, “How long will this take?” In Texas, the divorce process can feel slow. But in some cases, it moves faster than people expect. The key is understanding the rules, timelines, and options available under Texas law.
The 60-Day Waiting Period
Texas law requires a minimum 60-day waiting period between the date you file for divorce and the date the court can finalize it. This rule is meant to give spouses time to consider reconciliation.
The 60-day clock starts the day the petition for divorce is filed. In most cases, this is the fastest possible timeline for a divorce to be completed.
Exceptions to the Waiting Period
In limited circumstances, the court may waive the 60-day waiting period, including:
Family Violence
If your spouse has been convicted of family violence, the court may finalize the divorce sooner.
Protective Orders
If you have an active protective order for safety reasons, the waiting period may be shortened.
These exceptions are rare, but they exist to protect victims in dangerous situations.
Factors That Affect Divorce Timelines
Even beyond the waiting period, the speed of your divorce depends on several factors:
Contested vs. Uncontested Divorce
If you and your spouse agree on property division, child custody, and support, the process is faster (sometimes final right after the 60-day mark).
If you disagree, the divorce becomes contested, which can stretch out for months or even years.
Children Involved
Cases involving custody, visitation, and child support usually take longer.
Property Division
Dividing complex assets like real estate, retirement accounts, or businesses adds time.
Court Schedules
Local court availability can delay hearings, especially in busy counties.
Realistic Timelines
While every case is different, most Texas divorces follow a fairly predictable pace once the paperwork is filed. The overall length depends on how much you and your spouse agree on and how complex your situation is. Here’s a general idea of what to expect based on the type of divorce you’re pursuing.
Uncontested Divorce with No Kids/Minimal Property: About 2–3 months (including the 60-day wait).
Uncontested Divorce with Kids/Property: 3–6 months.
Contested Divorce: 6 months to several years, depending on the disputes involved.
How to Make the Process Faster
While you can’t skip the legal waiting period (except in rare cases), you can help speed up the process by:
Agreeing on as many issues as possible before filing
Providing financial documents quickly
Working with a family law attorney to draft a clear settlement
Avoiding unnecessary disputes or delays
Get Help Navigating the Divorce Process in Texas
So, how fast can you get a divorce in Texas? At minimum, 60 days. Realistically, the timeline depends on whether your case is uncontested or contested, and how complex your circumstances are.
If you’re considering divorce and want a smoother, faster process, LDG PLLC can guide you through each step and help you protect your interests along the way.