WHAT IS INVOLVED IN STARTING THE PROCESS FOR A DIVORCE OR DISSOLUTION?

The first step would be the filing of a properly executed petition with the appropriate court. The petition must be served on the other party, either by voluntary acceptance or by involuntary service. After that, except in extraordinary circumstances, the earliest the divorce can be finalized is 90 days after the service. This is assuming that the parties can agree to all the terms of the divorce. Without agreement, you can expect trial approximately six months after the petition is served.