Manhattan divorce lawyer Richard Roman Shum (https://www.romanshum.com/blog/how-long-does-a-divorce-take-in-new-york/), of the Law Office of Richard Roman Shum, Esq., provides clarity on how long divorce may take in a recent article, breaking down the various factors that influence the timeline in New York. With years of experience in family law, Shum offers valuable insights to those seeking to better understand the legal aspects of dissolving a marriage in the state.
In the article, Shum details the general timeline of a divorce, noting that while uncontested divorces can be finalized within a few months, contested cases can take significantly longer. As a Manhattan divorce lawyer, Shum emphasizes that every case is unique and can be affected by various factors such as the willingness of both parties to cooperate, court availability, and the complexity of asset division. These variables make it difficult to predict an exact timeframe, but having a clear understanding of the process can help manage expectations for those going through this challenging life transition.
The Manhattan divorce lawyer explains that in an uncontested divorce—where both parties agree on key issues such as child custody, support, and property division—the process can be relatively swift. “An uncontested divorce can sometimes be resolved in as little as three months if both parties are cooperative,” Shum states. However, Shum also points out that even in uncontested cases, the length of the process can be influenced by how quickly the necessary paperwork is filed and processed by the courts.
For contested divorces, the timeline can extend significantly due to the need for litigation, negotiation, and sometimes even mediation. According to Richard Roman Shum, a Manhattan divorce lawyer, these proceedings can take anywhere from six months to well over a year, depending on the specific circumstances. Disputes over alimony, child custody, or the division of assets often require multiple court appearances and negotiations, all of which add to the duration of the case.
In the state of New York, there is a mandatory waiting period of at least six months from the date of filing for divorce. During this time, the court will verify that all the legal requirements are met, and this minimum period applies even in cases where the parties are in full agreement. Shum further elaborates that the court’s caseload, the complexity of the case, and the cooperation between both parties are all critical factors that contribute to how long a divorce will take from start to finish.
Divorce cases that involve high-net-worth individuals or complicated financial situations often take much longer, as forensic accountants and financial professionals may be brought in to assess assets and liabilities. Shum highlights that clients need to be aware of the potential for extended timelines in these instances, as these divorces can require a deeper level of investigation and documentation, which adds to the overall time frame.
For couples with children, issues surrounding child custody and support are often the most contentious, and Shum notes that these disputes can significantly delay the divorce process. The Manhattan divorce lawyer emphasizes that it’s important to approach these matters with a focus on the best interests of the children, which can help expedite agreements between the parties. Mediation and collaborative divorce methods are often recommended in such cases to help reduce the time spent in court.
While divorce is rarely a quick or easy process, Richard Roman Shum, a seasoned Manhattan divorce lawyer, advises individuals to remain patient and consult with an experienced divorce attorney to handle the complex matters of family law. The article serves as a useful resource for those preparing to begin the divorce process, offering realistic expectations about the timeline and potential challenges involved.
For anyone going through a divorce or contemplating the dissolution of a marriage, it is crucial to have legal guidance that provides both clarity and support. Richard Roman Shum and the team at the Law Office of Richard Roman Shum, Esq. are dedicated to helping clients achieve favorable outcomes while minimizing the stress of the legal process.
About the Law Office of Richard Roman Shum, Esq.:
The Law Office of Richard Roman Shum, Esq. is based in Manhattan, New York, providing family law services with a focus on divorce cases. The firm is committed to delivering personalized legal solutions that prioritize the needs and goals of each client. Richard Roman Shum, a dedicated Manhattan divorce lawyer, is known for a compassionate yet assertive approach, helping ensure that clients receive the representation they deserve during one of life’s most challenging transitions.
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