← Back to blog

State/Local · July 9, 2026 · The SimplyDivorceOnline Team

How to File for Divorce in Georgia (2026)

Georgia's residency rule, no-fault grounds, the 31-day minimum, and where to file, a straightforward guide to an uncontested Georgia divorce.

Georgia allows both no-fault and fault divorces, but the uncontested, no-fault path is the fastest and least stressful for couples who agree.

Residency requirement

At least one spouse must have been a Georgia resident for six months before filing. You file in the county where the responding spouse lives, or where you both last lived if the other spouse has moved out of state.

Grounds

Georgia's no-fault ground is that the marriage is 'irretrievably broken.' The state also recognizes fault grounds, but no-fault keeps an agreed divorce simple.

The 31-day minimum

Georgia doesn't impose a long waiting period. An uncontested divorce generally can't be finalized until at least 31 days after your spouse is served, but many agreed cases wrap up not long after that, Georgia is one of the quicker states for an uncontested divorce.

Where to file

You file with the Superior Court in the correct county and pay the filing fee, with a waiver if you qualify. Your spouse can acknowledge service to avoid a formal serve. Once the paperwork and the 31-day minimum are satisfied, a judge signs the final decree.

The above is general guidance, not legal advice, verify current requirements with your Georgia county Superior Court. When you start with us, your Georgia paperwork and checklist are tailored to your county.

Frequently asked questions

How much does a divorce cost in Georgia in 2026?
Preparing an uncontested divorce in Georgia with SimplyDivorceOnline is a flat $149, plus your county court's filing fee (about $200–$220 (varies by county)). That's a fraction of hiring an attorney, which commonly runs $10,000+ for a contested case.
How long does a divorce take in Georgia?
Most people finish the paperwork in a weekend. After you file, Georgia generally requires at least 31 days after your spouse is served, usually the biggest factor in your overall timeline.
Do I need a lawyer to get divorced in Georgia?
No. If you and your spouse agree on the terms, you can file an uncontested divorce in Georgia yourself using the correct court forms. A lawyer is mainly worth it if your case is contested or involves complex assets, a business, or a custody dispute.
Can I get divorced in Georgia if my spouse won't cooperate?
Yes. Georgia, like every state, allows a no-fault divorce, so your spouse cannot block it. If they don't respond after being properly served, the court can grant a default divorce.
Where do I file for divorce in Georgia?
You file with the Superior Court in the county where you (or your spouse) live, using the Petition for Divorce. Your county clerk processes the case; Georgia's official court website has current forms and fees.