Arizona Divorce Timeline: How Long Does It Take from Start to Finish?

Introduction: Why Divorce Timelines Matter

One of the most common and pressing questions individuals ask when facing the end of a marriage is: “How long will my divorce take in Arizona?” The answer isn’t always simple. Divorce timelines can vary significantly depending on factors such as whether the divorce is contested, if children are involved, and how efficiently each party responds to required legal steps.

Understanding the general flow and legal requirements in Arizona can help reduce stress and set realistic expectations. Time impacts everything—emotions, finances, and the ability to move forward. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the complete Arizona divorce timeline and key events that can either accelerate or delay your case.

Arizona’s Mandatory Waiting Period

In Arizona, the law mandates a 60-day “cooling-off” period after the divorce papers are officially served to the other spouse. This is the minimum amount of time it takes before a divorce can be finalized—even if both parties agree on everything from day one.

The countdown begins on the date the respondent (the spouse being served) receives the official divorce petition. This waiting period is designed to give couples time to reconsider reconciliation and to ensure decisions are not made hastily.

It’s important to understand that this 60-day period is the earliest a divorce can be finalized—it does not reflect the average timeline for most cases.

Step-by-Step Divorce Process in Arizona

The process of divorce in Arizona includes several legal stages. Whether you file in Phoenix, Tucson, or any other jurisdiction, the following steps are typical:

1. Filing the Petition

The divorce process begins when one spouse (the petitioner) files a Petition for Dissolution of Marriage with the court. This includes essential details about the marriage, children (if any), assets, and requested relief (custody, spousal support, etc.).

2. Serving the Spouse

Once filed, the petitioner must legally “serve” the other spouse (respondent) with a copy of the petition and a summons. This must be done within 120 days. Service can be done via process server, sheriff, or certified mail with return receipt.

3. Responding to the Petition

The respondent has 20 days to respond (or 30 days if served out of state). If no response is filed, the petitioner may request a default divorce after the mandatory waiting period.

4. Preliminary Injunctions and Disclosures

After the petition is filed, both parties are automatically placed under a preliminary injunction—a court order prohibiting changes to insurance, assets, and property without court permission. Each party must also provide mandatory financial disclosures, which include income, expenses, debts, and assets.

How Long Does Each Phase Typically Take?

While every divorce is unique, understanding the average time each phase may take can help set expectations. Here’s a general breakdown:

• Petition Filing to Service: 1–2 weeks (depending on method of service)
• Response Time: 20–30 days (based on in-state or out-of-state service)
• Initial Disclosures: Within 40 days of response (as per Rule 49 of AZ Family Law Rules)
• Mediation/Negotiation: 1–3 months
• Contested Trial (if needed): 6–12 months after initial filing
• Total Duration:
  • Uncontested Divorce: 2–4 months (if both parties agree quickly)
  • Contested Divorce: 6–18 months (depending on complexity)

Delays are common if either party is uncooperative, missing documents, or if court schedules are backlogged.

Factors That Can Speed Up or Delay a Divorce in AZ

Several internal and external variables can significantly affect how fast or slow your divorce progresses. Here are the most common:

Disagreements and Negotiations

Unresolved issues around child custody, support, or asset division can drag out proceedings. Each back-and-forth negotiation can add weeks or months.

Child Custody Disputes

When children are involved, courts place added scrutiny on parenting plans. Evaluations, third-party mediation, and psychological assessments can delay final decisions.

Complex Property Division

Dividing businesses, investment portfolios, or high-value properties requires appraisals and expert input—processes that don’t happen overnight.

Spouse Cooperation

The more cooperative both spouses are, the faster the divorce can be resolved. Mutual consent and full disclosure of financials can shave months off the timeline.

Court Scheduling

Family law courts in Arizona may have backlogs, especially in metropolitan areas like Maricopa or Pima County. Getting a trial date may take months.

Mediation and Alternative Dispute Resolution Timelines

Mediation is a popular alternative to trial in Arizona divorces, especially in contested cases where both parties want to avoid courtroom litigation.

How Long Mediation Takes

Most mediation sessions take place over 1–3 meetings spaced over several weeks. If both parties are willing to compromise, issues can be resolved in as little as a month.

Voluntary vs. Court-Ordered Mediation

Some couples enter mediation voluntarily. Others may be ordered by the court to attempt resolution before scheduling a trial. Court-ordered mediation may take longer to initiate due to scheduling availability.

While not required in all cases, mediation can drastically reduce the divorce timeline if successful—often leading to finalization immediately after the 60-day waiting period expires.

Trial and Final Judgment

If mediation fails or key issues remain unresolved, the case proceeds to trial. This is often the most time-consuming phase of the divorce process.

Preparing for Trial

Preparation includes discovery (exchanging information and evidence), depositions, expert witness coordination, and pretrial motions. This can take several months depending on complexity.

Scheduling the Trial

Courts in Arizona are typically backlogged, and scheduling a family court trial can take 4 to 9 months after requesting a trial date. Large counties like Maricopa may take longer.

Final Decree of Dissolution

Once the trial is completed, the judge will issue a final divorce decree. This ruling finalizes property division, spousal support, child custody, and other matters. It may be issued immediately after trial or within 30 days depending on the court.

Post-Divorce Modifications and Appeals

The divorce process doesn’t always end with the final decree. Life circumstances change, and some parts of a divorce—especially child-related matters—can be revisited.

Modifying Child Custody or Support

To modify custody or support, a parent must show a significant change in circumstances. The process usually involves filing a motion, exchanging updated information, and potentially attending another hearing. This typically takes 2 to 6 months.

Appealing a Divorce Decree

If one party disagrees with the judge’s decision, they have a limited time (usually 30 days) to file an appeal. Appeals are complex and can add 6 to 12 months to the timeline, often requiring legal representation.

Special Cases That Affect the Divorce Timeline

Some divorces fall outside the “average” range due to special legal conditions or family dynamics.

Military Divorces

Active-duty military service members have protections under the Servicemembers Civil Relief Act (SCRA), which can delay proceedings while deployed. Jurisdictional issues can also impact timing.

Domestic Violence Protection Orders

If domestic violence is involved, courts may issue emergency protection orders. These cases may fast-track certain hearings (like custody), but can delay others due to safety considerations or no-contact orders.

Covenant Marriages

In Arizona, couples in a covenant marriage must meet stricter conditions to divorce, such as proving abuse, adultery, or abandonment. These additional legal hurdles often extend the timeline significantly compared to standard no-fault divorces.

How to Make Your Arizona Divorce Move Faster

While some delays are unavoidable, there are proactive steps you can take to streamline your Arizona divorce and minimize the timeline.

Hire an Experienced Divorce Attorney

A seasoned family law attorney understands court procedures, deadlines, and legal strategy. This ensures your paperwork is accurate, your arguments are well-prepared, and unnecessary delays are avoided.

Be Organized and Responsive

Respond to your attorney, file documents on time, and be transparent with financial disclosures. Courts penalize delays, and dragging your feet only prolongs the process.

Consider Mediation or Settlement Early

If both spouses are willing to negotiate, reaching a settlement early—before a court date is set—can save months of litigation and emotional distress.

Communicate Respectfully with Your Spouse

Even if you’re not on good terms, civil communication can reduce tension and make it easier to agree on terms. Avoid letting emotions derail practical decisions.

Conclusion: Plan with Realistic Expectations

Every divorce in Arizona follows a unique path. While the minimum time for a divorce is 60 days, most divorces—especially those involving children or disputes—take significantly longer. Understanding the steps and what influences the timeline can help you feel more in control during a challenging life transition.

Working with a knowledgeable Arizona divorce attorney not only helps you navigate complex legal issues, but also speeds up the process by avoiding costly mistakes and delays. Whether your divorce is amicable or contested, planning with realistic expectations is the best way to move forward with clarity and confidence.

How Gillespie, Shields & Taylor Can Help You

Since 1985, Gillespie, Shields & Taylor has been a trusted legal ally for families across Arizona. With decades of experience handling complex and straightforward divorces alike, our attorneys are well-versed in the nuances of Arizona family law. We understand the emotional and financial toll that divorce can bring and are committed to providing compassionate, strategic, and results-driven representation.

Whether you’re facing a contested divorce, need help negotiating a fair parenting plan, or simply want legal guidance to ensure your paperwork is in order, our team is here to help. We prioritize clear communication, personalized strategies, and relentless advocacy to protect your interests every step of the way.

If you’re ready to move forward with confidence, contact us today for a confidential consultation. Let us help you take the next step toward resolution and a stronger future.

Frequently Asked Questions About Divorce Timelines in Arizona

How long does a typical divorce take in Arizona?

Uncontested divorces may take as little as 2–4 months, while contested divorces often take 6–18 months depending on complexity and cooperation between spouses.

Can I get divorced faster than 60 days in Arizona?

No. Arizona law imposes a mandatory 60-day waiting period after service of the divorce petition. No divorce can be finalized before this period ends.

Does filing first speed up the divorce process?

Filing first does not necessarily speed things up, but it allows you to initiate the process and may provide strategic advantages in court scheduling and negotiations.

What’s the fastest way to finalize a divorce in AZ?

The fastest way is through an uncontested divorce with a consent decree. If both parties agree on all terms, the divorce can be finalized shortly after the 60-day wait period.

Can the court delay my divorce even if we both agree?

Yes, delays can still occur due to court scheduling, backlog, or improperly filed paperwork. Having legal guidance helps avoid these pitfalls and keeps your case on track.