In Washington State, a mandatory 90 day cooling off period is imposed, by statute. That time begins to run from the date the nonmoving (the one who didn't file the initial paperwork with the court) is served (is either handed the document by sheriff or other process server, or signs an acceptance of service. This is a mandatory minimum. However, the Divorce process can take far, far longer then that. There is no actual maximum, and a divorce can continue until the presiding judicial officer loses patience.