If you and your spouse have agreed to an uncontested divorce, you are probably hoping to get it processed and finalized as quickly as possible. After all, few things in life are as tedious and painful as a divorce that drags on forever. You've likely heard horror stories from friends or co-workers about divorce proceedings that last for months or even years!

Fortunately, an uncontested divorce can move a lot more swiftly than courtroom litigation, provided that you and your soon-to-be former spouse do what you can to keep things on track. Because everybody's uncontested divorce is different, it's hard to give a universal time frame for an uncontested divorce. Your unique circumstances could cause the divorce mediation process to be more lengthy- or perhaps quicker than another divorcing couple's process. It really all comes down to a few key factors:

Cooperation

We know it's easier said than done, but being able to cooperate with your soon-to-be ex-spouse can help your divorce mediation process move a lot more quickly than arguing every single point. If you are able to reach compromises and work together to find a mutually beneficial solution to each issue, you are likely to settle your uncontested divorce much faster.

Staying Calm

Along the same lines, being able to keep your temper in check and remain calm during divorce mediation sessions can help to significantly speed up the process and get you to your goal of a finalized divorce settlement sooner rather than later. It is understandable that emotions are running high during this tumultuous time, and that your feelings of anger, sadness, and hurt caused by the divorce are right near the surface during mediation sessions, but it really is better for you both in the long run if you leave those feelings at the door and tend to the business at hand.

Underlying Circumstances

If you have a number of assets, such as property, stocks, or other valuables in common, your uncontested divorce mediation process may take longer than it would for couples with fewer assets. Additionally, a divorcing couple with children or pets may face a longer mediation process if they are not able to come to a compromise about a mutually beneficial custody agreement. By working together to devise a custody schedule that benefits both of you as well as your children, you can save time and help the mediation process move more swiftly.

Once you have hammered out the details of your divorce settlement, your mediation specialist will assist you with filing the appropriate paperwork for your state and county. Once the local legislation processes your papers, your uncontested divorce is officially finalized and you are both free to move on to your next chapter.

If you and your soon-to-be ex-spouse are interested in saving time, money, and a lot of emotional strain, an uncontested divorce may be your best option. Look into divorce mediation as an alternative to traditional courtroom litigation and avoid the hassles of attorney fees, court hearings, and more.