How Long Does a Divorce Really Take in Virginia?

 Posted on January 31, 2026 in Family Law

In Virginia, a divorce usually takes about six months to over a year, depending on your situation. Virginia has strict separation rules that often control the timeline more than anything else. In 2025, Virginia reported a divorce rate of about 2.7 divorces per 1,000 residents, showing that many families across the state are going through this process each year.

If you are thinking of getting divorced in 2026, our Chantilly, VA divorce lawyers can help you plan your next steps. Several factors can complicate the process, but an experienced attorney will walk you through it with compassion.

How Long Does a Divorce Usually Take in Virginia?

Most divorces in Virginia take at least six months and often closer to a year or longer. Even when both spouses agree, the law requires a waiting period before the court can finalize the divorce.

Virginia allows no-fault divorce in many cases, but there is still a waiting period. Under Virginia Code § 20-91(A)(9), the court can grant a no-fault divorce only after the spouses have lived separate and apart without cohabitation for the required time. In most cases, that is one year.

What Is the Shortest Time a Divorce Can Take in Virginia?

The shortest possible divorce in Virginia usually takes about six months. This only applies when the spouses have no minor children and have signed a written separation agreement. Even then, the divorce is not finalized automatically. The court still must review the paperwork and sign a final divorce order, which can take additional time.

What Makes Divorce Cases Take Longer Than Expected in Virginia?

Many divorces take longer because of disagreements or legal issues that require court involvement. Once a case becomes contested, the timeline often stretches out.

Common reasons divorce cases take longer include:

• Disputes over child custody, parenting time, or child support

• Arguments about dividing property, retirement accounts, or debt

• Claims involving fault, such as adultery or cruelty

Each issue adds steps to the process and may require hearings or additional filings.

What Counts as Separation for a Virginia Divorce?

Separation is often the longest part of a Virginia divorce. Separation means living apart with the intent to end the marriage. It is more than just sleeping in separate rooms. Courts take separation seriously, and living together again can restart the clock.

Does Filing For a Fault-Based Divorce Make Things Faster in Virginia?

Filing on fault grounds does not usually speed up a divorce. In many cases, it slows things down. Fault-based divorces require proof and may lead to court hearings or trials.

Virginia Code § 20-91 lists fault grounds such as adultery and cruelty. Proving these claims often takes time and can increase stress and costs. For many people, a no-fault divorce is still the faster option.

How Do Courts Affect How Long a Divorce Takes in Virginia?

Courts control the final steps of every divorce. Even in uncontested cases, a judge must review and approve the final divorce decree. In Fairfax County and nearby courts, busy schedules can add weeks or months before a divorce is finalized.

What Can You Do To Avoid Unnecessary Delays During a Virginia Divorce?

While you cannot skip legal requirements, some steps may help avoid extra delays.

Helpful ways to keep a divorce moving include:

• Following separation rules carefully and consistently

• Gathering financial documents early

• Responding quickly to court and attorney requests

• Working toward clear agreements when possible

Staying organized can help prevent avoidable setbacks.

Contact Our Tysons, VA Divorce Lawyers Today

If you are trying to understand how long your divorce might take and what could delay it, Salvado Law Offices can help. We are fully prepared and committed to taking on your case with diligence and attentiveness, while helping you understand timelines, expectations, and next steps. To learn how long your divorce may realistically take and how to protect your interests, contact our Chantilly, VA divorce attorneys by calling 703-379-9446. Se habla Español.