If you’re considering divorce, one of your first questions might be, “How long does a divorce take in Queensland?” While the process can vary depending on individual circumstances, understanding the steps involved and the legal requirements can help you prepare for what lies ahead.
The Divorce Process in Queensland
- Meet the Separation Requirement
To apply for a divorce in Queensland, you must have been separated for at least 12 months. Separation can occur even if you live under the same roof, provided you can prove the relationship has ended. - File the Application for Divorce
You can file a divorce application as an individual or jointly with your ex-partner. The application is submitted to the Federal Circuit and Family Court of Australia (FCFCOA). The processing time is typically 4–8 weeks after filing, depending on the court’s workload. - Serve the Application (If Filed Solely)
If you’re filing as an individual, you must serve the divorce application on your ex-partner at least 28 days before the hearing date (or 42 days if they are overseas). - Attend the Divorce Hearing (If Required)
If there are no children under 18, a hearing may not be necessary. However, if children are involved, the court will need to be satisfied that proper arrangements are in place for their care. - Wait for the Divorce to Be Finalised
Once granted, the divorce becomes final one month and one day after the hearing. At this point, you will receive a Divorce Order, which serves as official proof of your divorce.
Factors That Can Delay a Divorce
While the standard timeline for divorce in Queensland is typically around 4–6 months, delays can occur due to:
- Disputes over separation dates: If one party disagrees on when the separation began.
- Incomplete applications: Missing information or incorrect documents can slow down processing.
- Serving issues: Challenges in serving the application on your ex-partner.
- Court backlogs: High demand can extend waiting times for hearings.
Conclusion: Get Expert Help for Your Divorce in Queensland
The timeline for divorce in Queensland depends on your unique circumstances. However, being well-prepared and having the right legal support can make the process quicker and less stressful.
At Bennett Carroll Solicitors, we are committed to helping you through every stage of your divorce, from separation to finalisation.
With offices in north Brisbane, south Brisbane, the Gold Coast, Sunshine Coast, and Ipswich, our knowledgeable family lawyers are ready to assist you with confidential advice tailored to your needs.
Call us today on 1300 334 566 or contact us via one of the methods here to book a consultation.
Safeguard your interests — we are your legal problem solvers.
For more information, explore our Family Law Page. page. You also might also be interested in:
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