Divorce Timeline Estimator

Utah law requires a minimum 30-day waiting period between filing your divorce petition and the judge signing the final decree (§ 81-4-402). This cannot be shortened except in extraordinary circumstances, which require filing a special motion and court approval. The other party has 14 days to oppose the motion.

In contested cases, Utah requires at least one mediation session before the case can proceed to trial. The court will not schedule a trial date without proof of mediation compliance. Exemptions are available for domestic violence cases and, on a case-by-case basis, for financial hardship.

An uncontested divorce in Utah can be finalized in as few as 45 days when both parties fully agree on all terms, the respondent cooperates with service, and all required documents and education courses are completed promptly. Mediation can help you reach that agreement faster and at a fraction of the cost of litigation.