How long does a divorce take in California?

Six months at absolute minimum — and usually longer. Family Code section 2339 prohibits a judgment dissolving a marriage from taking effect until at least six months and one day after the respondent is served or appears. The waiting period cannot be shortened; it exists to allow reconciliation and cannot be waived by agreement. Before filing at all, one spouse must satisfy residency: six months in California and three months in the county of filing (Family Code section 2320). An uncontested case with complete financial disclosures can be fully processed so the judgment becomes effective the day the waiting period ends. Contested custody, support, or property issues extend the timeline to a year or more, governed by the family court's calendar in the county of filing. Notably, the court can bifurcate — restoring single status while property issues continue — and temporary custody, support, and restraining orders are available throughout the waiting period.

Authority: Cal. Fam. Code § 2339