How Long Does the Divorce Process Take in Louisiana?

One of the biggest concerns people have when considering divorce is how long the process will take. It’s completely normal to feel anxious or overwhelmed when you don’t know what to expect. While every situation is different, understanding the basic timelines in Louisiana can help you feel more prepared and in control as you move forward.

Louisiana divorces follow specific rules and waiting periods, and the length of your case will depend on factors such as whether you have children, whether the divorce is contested, and how much cooperation exists between you and your spouse.

Louisiana’s Mandatory Separation Period

In most Louisiana cases, spouses must live separate and apart before the court will finalize a divorce. This waiting period depends on whether you and your spouse share minor children.

The separation requirement is 180 days if you do not have children.The separation requirement is 365 days if you do have minor children.

This time must be met before the court can issue a final judgment unless you qualify for a fault-based divorce. While the separation period can feel long, many people use this time to gather documents, make decisions, and begin adjusting to new routines.

Uncontested Divorce Timeline

An uncontested divorce is the fastest option in Louisiana. This type of divorce happens when both spouses agree on all major issues, including custody, visitation, support, and property.

If your separation period has already passed and everything is agreed upon, an uncontested divorce can often be finalized within six to twelve weeks, depending on the court’s processing time. This timeline can vary from parish to parish, but uncontested cases generally move quickly and require minimal court involvement.

Contested Divorce Timeline

A contested divorce takes longer because the spouses do not agree on one or more important issues. These cases may involve discovery, hearings, settlement negotiations, or evaluations related to finances or custody.

Because there are more moving parts, a contested divorce can take several months to over a year. The timeline depends heavily on the complexity of the issues and the level of conflict between the parties. High-conflict situations, financial disputes, and custody disagreements are the most common reasons for delays.

Even After the Divorce Is Final, Some Issues May Continue

It’s important to understand that receiving a final divorce judgment does not always mean everything else is finished. Property partition, custody disputes, and support modifications are separate matters that can extend beyond the divorce itself. These issues sometimes require separate filings or hearings, especially when there are disagreements over how to divide assets or how to structure a parenting plan. In other words, the divorce may be finalized, but certain parts of the process may continue until all remaining matters are resolved.

What Can Slow the Process Down?

Even simple divorces can face delays if one spouse is hard to reach, paperwork is incomplete, or the court’s schedule is backed up. Custody disputes, financial complexity, or high-conflict communication can also lengthen the timeline. Having an attorney who stays organized and proactive can help prevent unnecessary slowdowns.

How Moisant Law Firm Supports You Through the Process

At Moisant Law Firm, we know divorce is not just a legal process—it’s an emotional transition. As an all-women team made up of mothers and professionals, we understand the stress, uncertainty, and fear that often come with these decisions. Our goal is to guide you with clarity, compassion, and a strong understanding of Louisiana family law so you always know what is happening and what comes next.

Whether your divorce is uncontested or highly complex, we work to keep your case moving forward while protecting your rights, your children, and your long-term stability. We take pride in offering steady support during a time when everything can feel unsteady.

We proudly represent clients in Jefferson Parish, St. Charles Parish, St. Tammany Parish, Plaquemines Parish, Terrebonne Parish, and the Greater New Orleans area. If you are considering divorce or need help understanding your timeline and options, we are here to help.

Contact Moisant Law Firm today to schedule a consultation and take the next step toward a more secure future.