Summary
A Georgia uncontested divorce is the fastest and most affordable way to end a marriage because both spouses agree on every required issue—property division, debts, alimony, custody, and child support. When all terms are settled, couples can typically finalize their divorce in 30-60 days, avoid court hearings, and keep legal fees predictable. This guide explains the statewide requirements, timelines, costs, court procedures, and how the process varies across Georgia counties.
Key Takeaways
- You must fully agree on all divorce terms for an uncontested divorce in Georgia.
- Most cases finalize within 31-60 days after filing.
- Costs are dramatically lower than contested cases—flat-fee options are available.
- Georgia requires specific documents, including a Settlement Agreement and (if applicable) a Parenting Plan and Child Support Worksheet.
- Court procedures and filing rules vary by county across Georgia.
- You can complete the entire process without going to court in most counties.
What Is an Uncontested Divorce in Georgia?
In Georgia, a divorce is considered uncontested when both spouses fully agree on all legally required issues:
- Division of marital property and debts
- Alimony (if any)
- Legal and physical custody
- Parenting schedule and decision-making
- Child support amounts and add-ons
Even a small disagreement—such as a holiday schedule or who keeps a vehicle—means the case is no longer uncontested. But for couples who can align on these terms, uncontested divorce provides a faster, calmer, and far more affordable path forward.
What Are the Requirements for an Uncontested Divorce in Georgia?
1. At Least One Spouse Must Be a Georgia Resident
Georgia requires six months of residency before filing.
2. Full Agreement on All Issues
The court cannot finalize your case unless all issues are resolved in a written agreement signed by both spouses.
3. Proper Documents Must Be Filed
Depending on whether children are involved, required documents may include:
- Complaint for Divorce
- Settlement Agreement
- Parenting Plan (if minors)
- Child Support Addendum
- Georgia Child Support Worksheet
- Final Judgment and Decree
3. A 31-Day Waiting Period
Georgia law requires a minimum 31-day waiting period after service or acknowledgment before a judge may sign the Final Decree.
How Long Does a Georgia Uncontested Divorce Take?
Typical Timeline: 30–60 Days
Most uncontested divorces in Georgia finalize in one to two months. Factors that affect timing include:
- How quickly spouses agree on terms
- How quickly documents are drafted and signed
- County processing speed (varies by clerk and judge)
County-Specific Timing Differences
- Fulton County: Often 45—60 days due to higher case volume.
- Cobb County: Frequently processes uncontested cases more quickly.
- Gwinnett County: Requires certain forms unique to the county, but turnaround is typically efficient.
- DeKalb County: Also normally quick turnaround, no court appearance required.
While each county has its quirks, none require a court hearing for uncontested cases unless a judge specifically requests one—something that is rare.
What Does an Uncontested Divorce Cost in Georgia?
The cost difference between uncontested and contested divorce is massive.
- Contested divorce: Commonly $30,000+ per spouse when litigation escalates.
- Uncontested divorce: A flat fee of $2,950 (no kids) or $3,950 (with children) at Aaron Thomas Law—no hourly billing, no surprises.
The cost difference exists because uncontested cases avoid the endless cycle of discovery, hearings, depositions, and motions that drive contested fees so high.
Filing fees (set by each county) generally range from $200-$250 (covered by the flat fee at Aaron Thomas Law).
The Step-by-Step Georgia Uncontested Divorce Process
The process is nearly identical statewide, though documentation requirements differ slightly by county.
Step 1: Consultation and Case Strategy
A 55-minute consultation helps clarify goals, determine eligibility for an uncontested divorce, and map out a strategy.
Step 2: Drafting Your Agreement
A legally compliant Settlement Agreement and other documents are drafted based on your goals and Georgia law.
Step 3: Review and Finalize Documents
You review every page with your attorney to ensure accuracy, clarity, and enforceability.
Step 4: Spouse Review and Signature
Your spouse reviews the materials and signs electronically with a remote online notary.
Step 5: Filing With the Court
Your attorney files all documents with the appropriate county clerk.
Step 6: 31-Day Waiting Period
Georgia law requires at least 31 days before a judge may sign the Final Judgment.
Step 7: Your Divorce Is Final
Most clients never step foot in court. Your attorney notifies you when the decree is signed.
How Georgia Counties Differ in the Uncontested Divorce Process
While state law governs divorce, counties have their own rules, forms, and processing times.
Fulton County
- Large filing volume can lead to slightly longer processing times, especially during peak periods.
- Requires a few county-specific forms, including its Standing Order, and all documents must be e-filed.
- Hearings for uncontested cases are uncommon, and most divorces are finalized through administrative review.
Cobb County
- Known for efficient processing of uncontested filings and consistent turnaround times.
- Uses a streamlined e-filing system, but certain local forms must be completed for family-law cases.
- Hearings are rarely required, and most uncontested cases are approved without the parties appearing in court.
Gwinnett County
- Requires multiple county-specific forms, including its Standing Order and child-related documentation.
- E-filing is mandatory, and filings must comply with strict format requirements for acceptance.
- Judges generally finalize uncontested divorces without a hearing unless a document needs clarification.
DeKalb County
- Processing times are generally efficient, but judges may take additional time to review Parenting Plans and child support documents for completeness.
- DeKalb requires several county-specific forms—such as its Standing Order—and all filings must comply with the countyʼs e-filing system.
- Hearings for uncontested cases are rarely required, and most divorces are finalized through administrative review without the parties ever appearing in court.
FAQ: Georgia Uncontested Divorce
1. Do we have to be separated before filing?
No. Georgia does not require physical separation before filing.
2. Do we have to go to court?
Not typically. Most uncontested divorces are finalized without a court appearance.
3. Can we still qualify if we disagree on something?
Only if you resolve the disagreement before filing. Any unresolved issue makes the case contested.
4. Can one lawyer represent both spouses?
No. An attorney ethically represents only one spouse, though the process remains cooperative.
5. What if we start uncontested but later disagree?
You still benefit from the work already completed and avoid much of the cost and delay of starting with litigation.
The Bottom Line:
If you and your spouse want a clear, predictable, and affordable path forward, an uncontested divorce may be the solution. Our flat-fee process is designed to help you avoid court, avoid chaos, and move forward with confidence.
Schedule your consultation today to begin your Georgia uncontested divorce.
About the Author
Written by Aaron Thomas, a Georgia family law attorney and founder of Aaron Thomas Law, where he focuses exclusively on uncontested divorces. Aaron has handled hundreds of uncontested divorces across Georgia, helping couples navigate the process with clarity, predictability, and minimal stress. His work has been featured in national media outlets, and he regularly speaks on modern family law practices, transparency in relationships, and accessible legal services.
Core Points
1. What ‘Uncontestedʼ Really Means in Georgia
Uncontested divorce doesnʼt mean you agree on everything today. It means you can agree. And in Georgia, that means settling four areas: how you divide your assets and debts, whether alimony is involved, and—if you have children—your parenting plan and child support. Once those pieces are in place, thereʼs nothing for a judge to decide, which is why the process becomes faster, calmer, and dramatically cheaper.
2. The Timeline: How Fast Does It Happen?
Georgia has a mandatory 31-day waiting period after filing. Most uncontested divorces finalize within 31 to 60 days, depending on how quickly documents are signed and how fast your county processes filings. And hereʼs the best part: in most Georgia counties, you never need to step foot in a courtroom. Your attorney files everything for you, and the judge signs your Final Decree without you having to be present.
3. The Cost Difference Is Huge
A contested divorce in Georgia often costs $30,000 or more. Thatʼs not an exaggeration—thatʼs the reality of litigation. An uncontested divorce, on the other hand, is a fraction of that cost. At our firm, itʼs a simple flat fee: $2,950 with no kids, or $3,950 with kids, with no hourly billing and no surprise invoices. You get real legal guidance, customized drafting of your agreement, and a predictable process from start to finish.
4. What the Process Looks Like
We start with a consultation to understand your goals. Then we draft every document you need—your Settlement Agreement, Parenting Plan, child support forms, everything. Once youʼre happy with the draft, you and your spouse sign electronically. We file it with the court, the judge reviews it, and about 1 to 2 months later, youʼre divorced. No hearings. No conflict. Just clarity.
Get Started Today
If youʼre ready to move forward with a Georgia divorce thatʼs fast, predictable, and as stress-free as possible, schedule your consultation today. Weʼll walk you through your options, help you avoid unnecessary conflict, and guide you toward a resolution that protects your future without the courtroom battle.