How long does a Nevada divorce take? Nevada divorces vary depending on whether the case is uncontested or contested. An uncontested divorce can be completed in as little as one to three weeks when both spouses agree on all issues. Contested divorces can take several months because the court must resolve disputes over child custody, property division and spousal support.
For more details on Nevada divorce laws, see the Nevada Revised Statutes (NRS 125) here.
Residency requirements and waiting period
To file for divorce in Nevada, at least one spouse must live in the state for a minimum of six weeks before filing. Once the divorce complaint or joint petition is filed, there is a minimum 20‑day waiting period before a divorce can be granted. This waiting period applies even if both parties agree.
Uncontested vs. contested divorce timelines
Uncontested divorces. A joint petition (uncontested) divorce is the fastest option. When both spouses agree on major issues such as custody, property and support, the paperwork can be prepared quickly and the judge may sign a decree within one to three weeks of filing.
Contested divorces. When there are disagreements, the divorce becomes contested. It typically takes several months because the court will hold hearings or trials to resolve disputes. The timeline depends on case complexity, court schedules and whether the parties reach a settlement.
Step-by-step process for divorcing in Nevada
- Meet residency requirements: One spouse must reside in Nevada for at least six weeks and intend to remain in the state.
- Prepare paperwork: Decide whether to file a joint petition (for uncontested cases) or a complaint for divorce (for contested cases). You can use our Filing for Divorce guide to understand the documents.
- File and serve: File the paperwork with the appropriate court and pay the filing fee. In contested cases, the other spouse must be served with the complaint and given time to respond.
- Negotiate and attend hearings: Work out agreements on custody, property division and alimony. If disputes remain, the court will schedule mediation, temporary orders and final hearings.
- Finalize the divorce: Once all issues are resolved, a decree of divorce is submitted to the judge. The decree becomes final upon the judge’s signature and filing, dissolving the marriage.
Examples of Nevada divorce timelines
• Quick joint petition: A couple with no children and minimal assets can complete a joint petition divorce in approximately two weeks if all paperwork is in order.
• Moderate contested case: A couple who disagrees over child custody and property may take four to six months to finalize the divorce, including mediation and court hearings.
• Highly contested case: When there are business assets or complex custody issues, a divorce can take a year or longer because of discovery and trial.
Frequently asked questions
How can we speed up our divorce?
The fastest way to finalize a divorce is to file a joint petition with complete, accurate forms and reach agreements on all issues. Using a family law attorney can also streamline the process and avoid mistakes.
Do both parties need to sign the divorce papers?
For a joint petition, both spouses must sign. For contested cases, only the filing spouse’s signature is needed, but the complaint must be properly served on the other spouse.
What happens if my spouse doesn’t respond to the divorce complaint?
If the other spouse is served and fails to respond within 21 days, you can request a default divorce. The court may grant your requested relief as long as it complies with Nevada law.
Are there any waiting periods after the decree?
Once the judge signs the decree and it is filed with the court clerk, your divorce is final. There is no additional waiting period.
Contact our Las Vegas divorce attorneys
If you’re considering a divorce in Nevada, our experienced family law team can guide you through the process. Call us at (702) 555‑1234 or contact us online to schedule a consultation.