Divorce Timeline and Key Considerations

May 28, 2025

At a minimum, there is a mandatory 120-day waiting period between filing for divorce and the earliest possible finalization. However, unless you and your spouse have already reached a full agreement on all major issues, most divorces take significantly longer. There is much to work through from the initial filing to the final divorce decree.

Key issues that typically need to be resolved include:

  • Division of property
  • Child custody and placement
  • Child support
  • Spousal maintenance (alimony)

Some of these may not apply to your situation, but for cases without full agreement, both parties' attorneys—and sometimes the court—must gather detailed information to support arguments and reach decisions. While property division is usually final and not subject to modification after the divorce is finalized, custody, support, and maintenance can often be modified as circumstances change.

Because property division is permanent, it’s essential to have a clear and accurate understanding of all marital debts and assets to ensure a fair division. Meanwhile, any arrangements for custody, child support, or maintenance should consider the child’s best interests and ensure both parties can meet their basic living needs.

Given the 120-day waiting period and the time required for information gathering and negotiation, the divorce process can take a while. Many people have urgent concerns during this time—like how to co-parent effectively, maintain financial stability, or manage living arrangements.

In such cases, a Temporary Order may be needed. This can be agreed upon by both spouses, ordered by the court, or a combination of both. Temporary Orders outline what should happen while the divorce is pending and may address:

  • Who pays which bills
  • A temporary custody or placement schedule
  • Temporary child support or spousal maintenance
  • Who remains in the marital home
  • Use of vehicles and other day-to-day matters

It’s important to remember that these orders are meant to be short-term solutions based on limited information. As the case progresses and more details become available, the terms of the Temporary Order often change.

If you're concerned about a Temporary Order, keep in mind: it is temporary and likely to be revised as the divorce proceeds.

Kaminski & Pozorski is your Full-Service Family Law Practice, located in Manitowoc Wisconsin. Call us at (920) 684-6694 to schedule a free initial consultation or visit our website at https://www.kaminskiandpozorski.com/.
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