How often do we read about celebrities getting a “quickie divorce”. There’s an ever growing line of high profile divorces which the media spin as taking a matter of weeks from them breaking up to being divorced, where agreements are ten-a-penny and everyone comes out of the whole process feeling even better than they did on their wedding day. But, back to the real world, just how quickly can you obtain a divorce?

A divorce itself can take as little as 4-6 months if there is an agreement in place and matters run as smoothly as possible. More commonly, a divorce can take up to a year. It is often the financial agreement which causes a delay to obtaining a divorce. Reaching a financial agreement can take a number of months, sometimes years, depending on the complexity of the matrimonial assets.   If a complex financial settlement needs to be considered by the courts, the divorce process can be put on hold for a number of years until a final agreement is reached.

Most of the divorce procedure, and the financial proceedings should they reach Court, is fixed by the Court itself. This is a strict timetable and there are no provisions for a “quickie” route. For example the time between the granting of a Decree Nisi and a Decree Absolute to finalise a divorce is 6 weeks and 1 day.  Therefore making it impossible for anyone, including celebrities, to get themselves a ‘quickie divorce’ as the media would suggest. Contrary to popular belief they have to divorce in the same way as the rest of us!

At BPS we understand that the divorce process can seem daunting. It is an emotional time and especially difficult when children are involved. There are many issues to take into account aside from the length of time it will take you to obtain your divorce. With over 60 years’ experience and a trusted reputation BPS can provide you with the advice and guidance you need at this difficult time.

Written by Caroline Payne. Contact Caroline.