Arizona Divorce Timeline

Summary Consent Decree Process

by Adrianne May

Arizona Certified Legal Document Preparer
15+ Years Experience

What to Expect During Your Divorce Process

Divorce can feel overwhelming when you do not know what comes next. This guide is designed to walk you through the typical Arizona Summary Consent Decree process so you can feel more informed, prepared, and confident throughout your case.

Please note that timelines can vary depending on client responsiveness, court processing times, and whether additional revisions or information are needed.

STEP 1 — Consultation & Intake

We will begin with a consultation and intake process to gather the information needed to prepare your documents.

During this stage:

  • We will discuss your goals and case details

  • You will complete intake forms and provide requested information

  • Questions and concerns can be addressed before drafting begins

STEP 2 — Drafting Documents

Once your intake is complete, I will begin preparing your divorce documents.

If I have questions or need additional information during drafting, I will reach out to you directly.

Documents commonly prepared may include:

  • Petition for Dissolution

  • Consent Decree

  • Parenting Plan (if applicable)

  • Child Support Documents (if applicable)

  • Other required court forms

STEP 3 — Client Review & Revisions

Once the documents are drafted, you will carefully review the forms.

If applicable, you will also share the documents with the other party for review and approval.

During this stage:

  • Revisions or corrections can be made if needed

  • Both parties should ensure all information is accurate

  • Once you approve the documents, please let me know so we can move to the next step

Prompt communication during the review process can help avoid delays.

STEP 4 — Signatures

Once the documents are approved, signatures will be completed either through:

  • Secure electronic signatures, or

  • An in-person signing appointment

STEP 5 — Filing with the Court

Once all documents are signed, I will file the paperwork with the Court.

After filing:

  • I will email copies of the filed documents to the parties

  • Filing receipts will also be provided for your records

  • Your case will officially be opened with the Court

STEP 6 — Arizona Waiting Period & Final Decree

Arizona requires a minimum 60-day waiting period before a divorce can be finalized.

Once the 60-day period has passed, your file will make its way to the Judge’s desk for review and signature. In most cases, the signed Decree is issued within a few additional weeks, although court processing times can vary.

During this stage:

  • I will periodically check the online court system for updates

  • I will email you if I see movement or updates on your case

  • The final signed documents will be mailed directly to the parties by the Court

Please note:

  • I provide the Court with stamped envelopes for mailing

  • The signed Decree comes directly from the Judge’s office

  • I do not automatically receive a final copy once signed

Certified Copies & Name Changes

If you plan to complete a name change, you will need a Certified Copy of your final Decree.

You may obtain a Certified Copy directly from the Court for:

  • $35 certification fee

  • Plus $0.50 per page

If preferred, I can obtain a Certified Copy on your behalf and mail it to you for $75.

Questions?

If you have questions during your case, please feel free to reach out.

Adrianne May
Arizona Certified Legal Document Preparer

All Rise LDP
623-565-8584
allriseldp.com