Divorce timelines vary based on the issues involved and the court process. Here’s what can affect timing in Minnesota divorce cases.
One of the first questions people often have about divorce is how long the process will take. In Minnesota, there isn’t one set timeline. Some divorces move along fairly quickly, while others take more time depending on the issues involved.
The length of the process often depends on how much the spouses agree on, what needs to be resolved, and how the case moves through the court system.
Why the Timeline Can Vary
Every divorce is different. A case may take more or less time depending on factors such as:
Because each family’s situation is unique, timelines can look very different from one case to another.
Uncontested vs. Contested Divorce
One major factor is whether the divorce is uncontested or contested.
In an uncontested divorce, both parties have reached agreements on the major issues. These cases often move through the process more efficiently because fewer matters need to be resolved.
In a contested divorce, there may be disagreements about property, parenting arrangements, or other legal issues. Those cases may involve additional discussions, mediation, hearings, or court proceedings before everything is finalized.
How Mediation and Negotiation Fit In
Many Minnesota divorce cases include mediation or settlement discussions at some point. These processes give both parties a chance to work through disputed issues outside of a courtroom.
The amount of time this takes depends on the number of issues involved and how complex they are.
Court Scheduling Also Plays a Role
Even when the parties are ready to move forward, court availability can affect the timeline. Hearing dates, filing requirements, and county procedures may all influence how quickly a divorce progresses.
That means one case may move faster than another simply because of scheduling or procedural differences.
When Is a Divorce Final?
A divorce is finalized when a judge signs the final order and decree. This document officially ends the marriage and outlines the terms of the divorce.
Once the final decree is entered, the divorce process is complete.
Final Thoughts
The timeline for divorce in Minnesota depends on the circumstances of each case. Some divorces are resolved quickly, while others require more time due to disagreements, court scheduling, or the complexity of the issues involved.
At Borden, Steinbauer, Krueger & Knudson, P.A., we represent clients throughout the divorce process and assist with the legal matters involved from filing through final resolution.
Born and raised in St. Cloud, Minnesota, Sam is thrilled to return to Central Minnesota after passing the bar exam in 2024. Sam's diverse experience spans roles with the Douglas County Attorney’s Office (Civil Division), a Nebraska lobbying firm, Hudl, and the University of Nebraska Civil Clinic. Through these positions, he gained valuable exposure to various areas of law, including civil litigation, policy advocacy, and client counseling. Early in his legal career, Sam is eager to leverage his skills and experiences to deliver effective and personalized legal solutions for BSKK’s clients.
Areas of Practice:
- Business Litigation
- Construction Litigation
- Property Law & Real Estate
- Contract Disputes
- Personal Injury
- Probate/Trust Disputes
- Landlord/Tenant
- Family Law
Education:
- University of Nebraska College of Law, Lincoln, Nebraska, 2024, J.D.
- Concentration in Real Estate and Business Transactions
- North Dakota State University, Fargo, North Dakota, 2019, B.S.
- Honors: Magna Cum Laude
- Majors: Political Science and Management Communication
Bar Admissions:
- Minnesota 2024
Professional Memberships:
- Minnesota State Bar Association
David V. Hurt is a seasoned litigator who has been advocating for individuals, families, and businesses across Minnesota since 2012. His practice is rooted in a practical, results-driven approach that blends strategic litigation with thoughtful dispute resolution. David's clients trust him to navigate complex legal issues with clarity, efficiency, and unwavering commitment.
He began his legal career clerking for the Honorable John G. Melbye in the Ninth Judicial District of Minnesota, where he gained invaluable perspective on trial practice and judicial reasoning. Since then, he has built a diverse portfolio of experience at firms in Minneapolis, Washington, D.C., and Pennsylvania—litigating matters ranging from corporate and construction disputes to aviation claims.
David’s practice spans a wide range of civil matters, including business formation and litigation, real estate and land use disputes, probate and trust litigation, and family law. He is particularly experienced in resolving high-conflict disputes and routinely employs alternative dispute resolution strategies to secure favorable outcomes for his clients while minimizing cost and disruption.
Areas of Practice:
Education:
Bar Admissions:
Professional Affiliations:
Virginia "Ginny" Knudson represents individuals and businesses in various areas of law, including, estate planning and probate, business and corporate, real estate, and governmental relations. Ginny provides mediation services in divorce and custody, especially for business owners and high wage-earners, as well as for real estate, probate and business disputes. Ginny has been selected as a top attorney by Minnesota Super Lawyer Magazine from for 13 years.
Areas of Practice:
– Estate planning
– Business and corporate
– Real estate and landlord representation
– Probate disputes, guardianships and conservatorships
– Municipal and governmental relations
-- Mediation
Education:
– University of Minnesota Law School, Minneapolis, Minnesota, 1994, J.D.
– Honors: Cum Laude
– University of St. Thomas, Minneapolis, Minnesota, 1991, B.A.
– Honors: Summa Cum Laude
– Honors: Aquinas Scholar
– Major: Economics, Spanish, Minor: Business
Bar Admissions:
– Minnesota, 1994
– U.S. District Court District of Minnesota, 1994
– U.S. Court of Appeals 8th Circuit, 1996
Professional Memberships:
– St. Francis Church Finance Council, 2004–present, Chair and Trustee
- Essentia-St. Joseph's Medical Center, Directors Council, 2020-present
- Lakes Area Music Festival Board, Board Member 2022-present
– Brainerd Area Chamber of Commerce, 2016-2022, Board Member and Chair
– Mount Ski Gull, Board Member, 2014-2019
– Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks, Brainerd Lodge #615
– Zonta International, 1999–2018
– Jaycees, Brainerd, 1998–1999
– Aitkin/Crow Wing County Bar Association, 2000–2001, President
– Aitkin/Crow Wing County Bar Association, 1999–2000, Vice-President
Patrick has been practicing law since 1980, dedicating over 90% of his career to representing personal injury victims and their families, as well as handling a wide range of civil litigation matters. He is a Certified Trial Specialist recognized by the Minnesota Bar Association and was named a leading American attorney in personal injury law by the American Research Corporation. His professional excellence also earned him recognition as a Super Lawyer by Minnesota Law & Politics, placing him among the top six percent of attorneys in Minnesota.
Pat is enjoying a well-deserved retirement after 40+ years of practice. We thank Pat for his years of dedication to the firm and his service to the Brainerd Lakes Area. His legacy is marked by a deep commitment to justice, compassion for clients, and significant contributions to the legal profession.
Areas of Practice (during his active years):
Plaintiff’s Personal Injury
Civil Litigation
Real Estate Litigation
Construction Litigation
Contract Litigation
Mediation and Arbitration
Education:
– University of North Dakota School of Law, Grand Forks, ND – J.D., 1980
- Honors: Graduate of the Year, Bruce Inn
- North Dakota Law Review, 1979–1980
– Concordia College, Moorhead, MN – B.A., 1974
- Major: Business Administration / Hospital Administration
Bar Admissions:
Minnesota, 1980
U.S. District Court, District of Minnesota, 1981
Professional Memberships:
American Bar Association, Member
Minnesota State Bar Association, Member
American Association for Justice, Member
Minnesota Association for Justice, Member
Crow Wing-Aitkin County Bar Association, Past President
Brainerd Area Chamber of Commerce, Past Board Member
Brainerd Jaycees, Past President (1981–1982)
Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks, Brainerd Lodge #615, Past Exalted Ruler
P.O.R.T. Group Home, Past Member, Board of Directors
