How to Get a Divorce if Married in Las Vegas, Nevada

Many people like the convenience of marrying and divorcing in Las Vegas.

Many people enjoy getting married in Las Vegas, Nevada because it's quick, easy, and relatively inexpensive. No blood tests or waiting periods are required; so the conditions that you must meet to be married here are relatively few. Similarly, the rules for a Las Vegas divorce used to be just as lenient. A couple wedded there, even coming from out of state, could dissolve their marriage within a matter of hours. Unfortunately, those looking for a speedy Las Vegas divorce these days will walk away disappointed.

Things You'll Need

• Marriage certificate
• Identification

Instructions

1. Reside in Clark County, Nevada, if you wish to be divorced in Las Vegas. You or your spouse must reside in Clark County for at least six weeks before petitioning for a divorce.

2. File a joint petition for divorce. This is the fastest way to get a divorce, if you were married in Las Vegas. It's easier when both you and your spouse are in agreement and file together. Otherwise, the spouse wanting a divorce must file the petition alone. Documentation, such as your marriage certificate and identification will be requested at this time.

3. Attend your divorce hearing. You will be notified by the court when your hearing is scheduled. If you have children, or substantial property and assets, more than one hearing may be needed to resolve these issues. If you think that your spouse will contest the divorce terms, it is wise to retain an attorney for your hearing.

4. Receive a copy of your divorce decree. This may occur at the first hearing you attend -- or after a succession of several hearings -- or after a divorce mediation. Bear in mind that judgments regarding matters such as spousal or child support, are always subject to change, even if you move away from Las Vegas or Clark County.

5. File for divorce in the county of your current residence, if you were married in Las Vegas and are now residing elsewhere. The procedure is nearly identical in many states.

Tips & Warnings

• For an even quicker end to your Las Vegas marriage, request an annulment instead of a divorce. Annulments seek to return the couple to the marital state they were in before the nuptials occurred. Those whose marriages are annulled are considered single again, and not divorced.

References

• What Happens in Vegas Can Be Fixed in Vegas! A sneak peek at Las Vegas Style Divorces; by Monty Miller; 2010