If you are asking how long it takes to finalize a divorce in Nevada, the honest answer is that timing depends on the type of case, the quality of the paperwork, and whether both spouses agree.
Nevada makes the process more efficient than many states, because there is no statutory waiting period and only one spouse needs six weeks of Nevada residency before filing. Those two rules allow uncontested cases to move quickly once your forms are complete.
Why Nevada Divorces Can Move Quickly
Nevada law requires a bona fide resident for at least six consecutive weeks before filing. Courts typically ask for an Affidavit of Resident Witness from someone who knows the filing spouse to prove residency. There is no mandatory cooling-off period, so once the court has the right paperwork, the decree can be entered as soon as the judge reviews and signs it.
Uncontested Divorce by Joint Petition
If you and your spouse agree on all issues, you can file together using a joint petition. The Nevada courts describe this as the quickest and easiest route because it presents the judge with a complete, signed agreement and usually does not require a hearing. In practice, many joint-petition cases are finished within weeks, although exact timing depends on the court’s workload and how clean your filing is.
How Disputes Affect Your Timeline
When spouses do not agree, one spouse files a complaint and serves the other. From there, the case follows the normal litigation path, which can include disclosures, discovery, settlement efforts, and hearings. As a result, how long divorce takes in a contested setting is often measured in months rather than weeks, and complex custody or property issues can extend the case further.
Service and the 21-day Response Rule
Once a complaint is served, the responding spouse generally has 21 calendar days to file an answer. If no response is filed, the filing spouse can ask the court for a default and move toward a final decree that reflects the requested terms. These two milestones, the answer deadline and possible default, are usually the first hard dates that control the pace of a contested case.
How Long Does it Take to File Divorce Papers?
If you already meet residency requirements and have your forms in order, you can file immediately. A joint petition can eliminate service delays and the 21-day wait for an answer, which is one reason it is typically the fastest track. For contested filings, build in time to arrange service of process and to allow the 21-day response window to run.
Bottom Line on Nevada Divorce Timing
- Fastest path: a jointly filed, uncontested case. Many are finalized within about one to three weeks, depending on the court workload.
- Contested cases: usually take several months, and complex cases can take a year or more.
- Residency: at least six weeks of Nevada residence for one spouse before filing. Proof is required.
- Waiting period: none under Nevada law, so timing is driven by paperwork, service, court review, and disputes.
Practical Ways We Keep Your Case Moving
- We prepare complete, accurate filings. We check every signature, exhibit, and financial disclosure so nothing holds up your case. We use the courts’ standardized packets and checklists for both joint and contested filings.
- We secure residency proof early. We line up your Affidavit of Resident Witness and supporting details so the clerk can confirm the six-week requirement on the first pass.
- We drive for early resolution when possible. We work to resolve property, support, and parenting issues up front. If full agreement is realistic, we will pursue a joint petition to fast-track court review.
Talk to a Nevada divorce attorney
If you are ready to file, still weighing your options, or want a realistic timeline for your situation, Dempsey, Roberts & Smith can help you take the next step. Schedule a consultation to speak with our team about your goals and the most efficient way to reach a final decree.