How do Quick Divorces Work?

With almost 50 percent of Americans marriages ending in divorce every year, quick divorces have become a safer and economical alternative to the more traditional procedures. While they are not for everybody, many couples can benefit from it. For example, partners who have no children under 18 can opt for a quick divorce, as there would be no child support issues to resolve. The same is true of couples who have no financial debts and those who can resolve property division amicably before initiating the divorce proceedings. If both parties agree to terminate the marriage quickly, these kinds of divorces can be arranged and executed in a matter of days.

Quick divorces, however, are not recommended in certain cases. Fighting couples that cannot agree on property division or other issues should go through the regular divorce proceeding channels. If one of the parties does not agree to sign papers or cannot be located, a quick divorce would not be possible. If the petitioner has a claim or is expecting something from the other side, then a quick divorce is also not an option.

Quick divorces basically work the same way than regular ones. A petition for dissolution of marriage must be filed by one of the parties, either personally or through a representative. Once the other party is served, he or she should simply sign the agreement and return it. There is no need to be present in the actual proceedings, and no oral testimony is required. After all paperwork has been signed and filed, there is a waiting period of up to 90 days, in which a judge will agree to dissolve the marriage. Nevada holds the record for quick divorces, with final answers taking as little as a week.

Quick divorces are substantially cheaper than the alternative. For people filing by themselves, the cost is usually under $100 US Dollars (USD), which covers filling fees, stamping, and certifications. Many opt to file through divorce companies, which charge a flat fee of $300-500 USD but can save the petitioner time and aggravation at the courthouse.