The average timeline for a divorce in New York is approximately 9.5 months. As compared to the national average of 11 months, New York generally has a fast process. The reason for the quicker timeline is New York's decision to forego a waiting period prior to a divorce.
Although you can complete a divorce without your spouse's consent, you must take steps to notify him or her of your intention to divorce. If you cannot locate your spouse, you can still file for divorce, but only after you have taken steps to attempt to locate and serve him or her with the divorce papers.
If you have no children under 21 and your marriage has been over for 6 months or more, you can use the DIY Uncontested Divorce Program to make your papers. If you have children under 21, use the paper Uncontested Divorce Packet.