How much time does a mediation divorce take?

In divorce mediation spouses may discuss and decide divorce terms within days, sign legal agreements within weeks, and get a Pennsylvania no-fault divorce decree within months. Or wives and husbands may choose a slower pace for their mediation divorce—timing is up to them.

Let's break down timing into two parts:

1.  How much time to discuss and decide divorce terms?
2.  How much time to get a Pennsylvania divorce decree?

How much time to discuss & decide divorce terms?

Divorce mediation can proceed quickly. Spouses may discuss and decide divorce terms with help from a mediator within days. It is possible to sign legally binding agreements in a matter of weeks. No need to wait months—even years—for a divorce court to decide.

These and other issues may be decided right away in divorce mediation:

• Spousal support and alimony,
• Distribution of marital property,
• Child custody, and
• Child support.

If spouses choose to take more time to discuss divorce terms and sign legal agreements, that is okay too. They may take as much time as they want or need.

Learn more about divorce mediation, and the steps in a mediation divorce.

How much time to get a Pennsylvania divorce decree?

A divorce decree is a court document that changes the marital status of spouses. Pennsylvania law sets time limits on how quickly husbands and wives may get a decree. The shortest  time to get a no-fault divorce decree in Pennsylvania (excluding processing of paperwork) is:

• 90 days after filing and service of a divorce pleading—if both spouses promptly consent to entry of the decree, or
• 20 days after filing and service of a divorce pleading—if spouses lived separate and apart for the statutory separation period and  promptly consent to entry of the decree.
  
  NOTE: The statutory separation period is two years for spouses who separated before December 5, 2016, and one year for spouses who separated December 5, 2016 or later.

Processing of divorce paperwork generally takes 2-5 weeks, depending on the county where the divorce is filed.

If spouses choose to take more time before consenting to a no-fault divorce decree, that is okay. Some husbands and wives are not ready to divorce so quickly. Some choose to stay married—but live apart—for continuation of marital health insurance benefits, or for personal reasons.

Divorce mediation can begin when both spouses are ready

Divorce mediation may begin as soon as both spouses are ready. The first step is an initial consultation about divorce mediation.

In my office, an initial consultation can occur within days of a request. Because my law practice is limited to mediation divorce, I am focused and efficient. I take pride in attending to all matters promptly.

Learn more about Dann Johns, divorce mediator and attorney.

Is divorce mediation right for your Pennsylvania divorce?

Consider sharing this website with your spouse. If both of you are interested in divorce mediation, the next step is to schedule a divorce mediation consultation with Dann Johns, Divorce Mediator & Attorney.

• Content updated 2018-09-10
• Copyright © 2010-2018, Dann Johns, All Rights Reserved.