Mississippi Divorce Timeline — How Long Does It Take? (2026)

Mississippi's 60-day waiting period is the primary driver of the timeline. Because the Property Settlement Agreement must be complete before filing in a joint case, preparation time matters too.

Overview: Total Timeline

Stage-by-Stage: Joint Complaint (No Children)

Stage 1 — Preparation (3–6 weeks)

Both spouses agree on all issues. Draft and finalize the Property Settlement Agreement. Both spouses sign and notarize. Draft the Joint Complaint.

This stage is the most variable — if negotiations over property division, alimony, or the house drag on, preparation can take months.

Stage 2 — File at Chancery Court (Day 1)

File Joint Complaint + PSA. Pay $52–$100. 60-day waiting period begins.

Stage 3 — 60-Day Waiting Period (Days 1–60)

No final hearing until Day 61. Use this time to prepare the proposed Decree and schedule the final hearing.

Stage 4 — Schedule and Attend Final Hearing (Weeks 9–14)

Contact the Chancery Court clerk to schedule the hearing. In some Mississippi counties, docket time adds 2–6 weeks beyond the 60-day mark.

Stage 5 — Decree of Divorce Entered

The Chancery Court judge reviews the PSA and enters the Decree. Obtain certified copies.

Total: 3–5 months

Stage-by-Stage: Joint Complaint (With Children)

Same as above, with these additions:

• Child support must comply with Mississippi Guidelines (percentage of income model)
• Parenting Plan must address all required elements
• Judge scrutinizes child-related provisions more carefully
• Add 1–2 months for preparation and judicial review

Total: 4–6 months

The 60-Day Wait — What It Covers

The 60-day period runs from the date the Joint Complaint is filed. No final hearing can be scheduled before Day 61. The waiting period cannot be waived or shortened in Mississippi.

Practical note: Many Mississippi Chancery Courts have busy dockets. Even after the 60-day period, scheduling the final hearing may take an additional 2–6 weeks. Contact the clerk early.

Fault-Based Divorce — Additional Timeline Factors

If one spouse refuses to sign a joint complaint, a fault ground is required:

• Serving the Respondent: 1–3 weeks
• Response deadline: 30 days
• Discovery (if contested): 3–12 months
• Hearing: scheduled by court

Total (fault-based, contested): 12–36 months

Last reviewed: March 2026 | 60-day wait from filing (cannot be waived) | PSA must be complete before filing in joint case | Chancery Court docket adds time | Fault-based: 12–36 months | Both spouses must sign joint complaint

Last reviewed: March 2026 · Verify current fees and forms with your local court before filing.