Each Court sets its own time frames for how long it should take to complete each kind of case. Time standards in Massachusetts state that a divorce complaint should be concluded within 14 months, and a complaint for modification of a divorce should be concluded within eight months.* However, due to the large volume of cases being processed in the courts, it often takes longer than that.
In comparison, at Why Litigate, it takes an average of six and half weeks to resolve a case, with the longest being three months and the shortest being three weeks.
Naturally, a prolonged divorce can take an emotional toll on both parties. It can be even more problematic if children are involved. When an agreement is reached more quickly, it frees up a parent to spend more time focused on their children’s wellbeing. Also, once an agreement is in place, children can settle into the routine set forth in that agreement. Overall, because it takes less time, dispute resolution makes it easier for everyone to move forward with their lives.
If time is important to you, contact Why Litigate to discuss how alternative dispute resolution might work in your situation. We can be reached at 508-556-0513 or resolve@whylitigate.com.
*Excluding divorces filed un MGL Ch. 208 sec 1A