How Long Does an Arizona Divorce Take?
A Mediator’s Guide to the Timeline
When people come to mediation, the first question they usually ask isn't about the law. It’s about time. "How long will this take?"
The short answer? In Arizona, it takes at least 60 days. That is the law. But the real answer depends on which path you choose. In 2026, there are new "fast lanes" for couples who work together, and slower lanes for those who fight.
This guide will explain the timeline simply, so you can plan your life.
Arizona Divorce Timeline at a Glance
Arizona has a required 60-day waiting period before a divorce can be finalized, but the full timeline depends on how the case is filed, how quickly both spouses reach agreement, and whether the court needs to resolve disputed issues.
Summary Consent Decree: often the fastest path when both spouses agree on every issue before filing. The 60-day waiting period starts from the filing date.
Standard uncontested divorce: one spouse files first, and the 60-day waiting period generally starts after the other spouse is served or accepts service.
Mediated divorce: the timeline depends on how quickly spouses resolve parenting, property, support, and final paperwork decisions.
Contested divorce: can take several months or longer when hearings, discovery, temporary orders, or trial preparation are needed.
The 60-Day "Speed Limit"
Imagine a speed limit sign that says, "Do Not Go Faster Than 60 Days." That is Arizona Revised Statute § 25-329.
The state requires a "cooling-off period." The idea is to make sure you don't make a permanent decision based on temporary anger. Even if you agree on everything—who keeps the house, where the dog sleeps, and how to split the bank accounts—the judge cannot sign your divorce papers until 60 days have passed.
The 2026 Difference: When Does the Clock Start?
Here is where it gets tricky. The 60-day clock doesn't always start on the day you file your papers. It depends on how you file.
In the past, the clock only started when your spouse received the papers (called "Service of Process"). If it took you two weeks to find them and hand them the papers, those two weeks didn't count toward the 60 days.
But in 2026, we have a "fast lane" called the Summary Consent Decree (Rule 45.1). If you use this, the clock starts the moment you file.
The Fast Lane: The Summary
Consent Decree (60–90 Days)
This is the biggest change for Arizona families in recent years. It is designed for couples who agree to mediate rather than going the courthouse route.
Who can use this?
You reach agreement on everything in mediation (money, kids, debt).
You do not have a "Covenant Marriage".
You have lived in Arizona for at least 90 days.
Why is it faster? You file the papers together as a team. Because you file together, you don't have to hire a process server to deliver papers to your spouse. You skip that step entirely. You pay one filing fee (saving about $300), and the 60-day countdown starts on Day 1.
On Day 61, you can submit your final decree. When the judge reviews your paperwork and signs it, the divorce is finalized.
The Standard Lane: Uncontested Divorce (90–120 Days)
Sometimes, you and your spouse agree to divorce, but you aren't ready to file paperwork together. Maybe your spouse is sad and doesn't want to help, but they won't fight you either. Mediation is the best option but for those wanting to litigate:
Filing or Petitioning
You file the Petition.
You serve your spouse
You serve your spouse. This is the "Service of Process." You have to officially give them the papers.
The Clock Starts
The 60-day wait begins only after they get the papers or sign a paper saying they accepted them.
If your spouse doesn't respond within 20 days, you can ask for a "Default." This means your petition is granted because they didn't show up. But you still have to wait for the 60 days to run out. For a broader overview of the full mediation path, review our divorce mediation guide.
The Slow Lane: Contested Divorce (6 Months to 2 Years)
If you and your spouse cannot agree on big issues—like who the children live with or how much the business is worth—you enter the "Contested" track.
This can take much longer. Thankfully, mediation is successful even when you and your spouse are experiencing a high level of conflict. However, if you choose to hire attorneys and litigation, this process takes much longer because the court has to help you find the answers.
The "Delay Multipliers"
In litigation, most of the time is spent in a phase called "Discovery." This is when lawyers trade documents like bank statements and credit card bills.
New Rules for 2026: Showing Your Cards Early
To speed things up, Arizona updated Rule 91 in 2026. Now, if you want to change a child support or custody order, you have to provide all your proof (like pay stubs and tax returns) immediately when you file.
In mediation, your professional attorney-mediator will guide you through every step in the process to reach agreements in a timely manner.
For a step-by-step overview of the process, see how divorce mediation works.
Good News for Parents: The 2026 Pilot Program
One of the most stressful parts of divorce is when a parent stops following the schedule. They might say, "I'm not bringing the kids back this weekend."
In the past, fixing this could take months. But right now, Maricopa County is testing the Expedited Parenting Time Enforcement Pilot Program. To learn more, click here.
If a parent violates the schedule, you can get in front of a judge much faster. This program is active through January 2026 , specifically to stop these games and protect your time with your children.
Research shows the agreements reached in mediation are much more likely to be followed by both parents. People appreciate and are more invested in following agreements they created. Following the orders of a judge, that both parties often feel are unfair, presents unnecessary challenges.
A Mediator’s Advice: Use the Wait Wisely
You cannot skip the 60-day wait. But you can change how you use it. Don't look at it as "waiting." Look at it as "construction time."
Build your new budget. Figure out what it costs to live on your own.
Breathe. Divorce is a trauma. Research shows that rushing through the emotions can actually make you feel worse later.
If you focus on building your new life during those 60 days, you won't just be done when the time is up—you'll be ready.
Aurit mediation offers a free, 1-hour, online consultation with a professional attorney-mediator who will explain the mediation process, answer your questions and give you a personalized flat fee. Schedule your free consultation today to find out if mediation is right for you, or give us a call any time at 480-999-7399. We are here to help.