The Quickest Way to Get Divorced in Nevada: A Step-by-Step Guide

The Quickest Way to Get Divorced in Nevada: A Step-by-Step Guide

Divorce can be a challenging and emotional process, but in Nevada, the law provides a relatively straightforward path to dissolve a marriage. If you're seeking the quickest way to get divorced in Nevada, this guide will walk you through the steps to ensure a smooth and expedited process.

1. Understand Residency Requirements

Before you can file for divorce in Nevada, at least one spouse must be a resident of the state. Specifically, one of you must have lived in Nevada for a minimum of six weeks before filing the divorce petition. To prove residency, you’ll need an affidavit from a resident witness who can confirm your residency status.

2. Choose the Type of Divorce: Joint Petition or Complaint for Divorce

In Nevada, there are two primary ways to file for divorce:

• Joint Petition: If both parties agree on all terms of the divorce, including property division, debt allocation, child custody, and support, you can file a Joint Petition for Summary Decree of Divorce. This is often the quickest and least contentious route, as it eliminates the need for a court hearing.
• Complaint for Divorce: If you and your spouse do not agree on the terms, one party must file a Complaint for Divorce. This can take longer, as it may involve negotiations, mediation, or a court trial.

3. Prepare and File the Necessary Paperwork

Whether you're filing a Joint Petition or a Complaint for Divorce, you'll need to complete and file specific forms with the court. These typically include:

• Family Court Cover Sheet
• Joint Petition for Summary Decree of Divorce (if applicable)
• Complaint for Divorce (if applicable)
• Affidavit of Resident Witness
• Decree of Divorce

Make sure all forms are filled out accurately and completely to avoid delays.

4. Serve the Divorce Papers (if filing a Complaint for Divorce)

If you’re filing a Complaint for Divorce, the other spouse must be formally served with the divorce papers. This can be done through personal service, certified mail, or by hiring a professional process server. The spouse being served has 20 days to respond. If they fail to respond, you may be able to request a default judgment.

5. Wait for the Court’s Decision

For a Joint Petition, the court can often finalize the divorce without a hearing, usually within a few weeks, provided everything is in order. If you're filing a Complaint for Divorce and your spouse responds, the process does take longer due to the need for additional hearings, negotiations and court intervention.

6. Attempt Settlement (if required)

If you did not file a joint petition, the fastest means to divorce is settlement. If you do not reach an agreement, then the worst case scenario is that you are going to have a full divorce trial with witnesses and evidence that can possibly last for days. If you reach an agreement and the agreement is legally sound, then your matter will immediately end upon the next step.

7. Obtain the Final Decree of Divorce