Getting divorced can now be easy: how express divorce works in the country

Deciding to end a marriage is never easy, but these days it can be much faster. Express divorce has become an alternative for those seeking closure without getting bogged down in lengthy legal proceedings and endless paperwork.

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According to attorney Claudia García, legal director of Clave Judicial, this type of process is called "express" because it is a quick and easy way to end a marriage when both spouses agree. It is not carried out in a courtroom, but rather in a notary's office, and is accompanied by a lawyer, all in accordance with Decree 4436 of 2005.

Here are some key points to keep in mind:

Who can access it?

The regulations stipulate that any couple who have been married in a civil or religious ceremony can access this legal instrument, as long as both agree to separate and on key issues such as children, visitation, and property.

If there are minor children involved, the expert points out that the agreement should include a visitation, custody, and support plan that protects their well-being. To this end, the family advocate may intervene.

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How long does the process take and what is required?

García explains that an express divorce can be resolved in about 10 business days or a maximum of one month.

Regarding the requirements, the following are required: a marriage certificate, birth certificates for the children, identity cards, and a written agreement outlining what will happen to the children and any assets.

Please note that if one of the parties disagrees, it will be necessary to approach a family court judge and initiate legal proceedings, which may take longer than expected.

And the cost?

According to the expert, attorney fees typically range between $1,500,000 and $3,500,000, while notary fees range from $250,000 to $500,000.

"And there's a key point: the law states that this procedure, whether it's a civil divorce or the civil effects of a religious marriage, requires the notary to pay the corresponding fee for non-valuable acts," he emphasized.

In total, an express divorce can cost between $1,800,000 and $4,000,000.

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