It depends whether you and your spouse can reach an agreement.  Some couples obtain a signed Judgment of Divorce in less than three months because they agree on how to raise their children, divide their property and secure financial independence.  Some couples attempt to negotiate a settlement for months with no success.  If a couple cannot reach an agreement, they must ask the court for help to resolve their disagreements.   This involves litigation.  Where the couple is unable to agree on a settlement, the judge decides the terms of the divorce after a trial on all the contested issues in the case.  The litigation process can take several months or even years to be finalized. Litigation can be shortened if at any point along the way the parties are able to reach a settlement agreement.