A contested divorce in Ontario typically takes 6-24 months to complete, depending on complexity.
The duration of a contested divorce in Ontario varies significantly based on several key factors. The process involves multiple legal steps and mandatory waiting periods that affect the timeline.
- Simple contested divorces with few disputes may resolve in 6-8 months
- Cases involving property division and spousal support often take 12-18 months
- Complex matters with child custody disputes can extend beyond 24 months
- Court backlogs and scheduling delays may add several months to the process
To potentially reduce the timeline, couples can explore alternative dispute resolution methods like mediation or collaborative divorce before proceeding with traditional litigation. Working with a certified divorce mediator or financial analyst early in the process can help resolve key issues more efficiently.