how long

What is the name of your state? Texas

If the divorce was filed in 01/01 and the judge has yet to sign a final divorce decree paper, how long untill the papers are invalid?

You dont say where in Texas you filed but it is my understanding that Texas is way behind in processing divorces. Contested cases can take up to one year. Yours has been filed for over 2 years. I would be calling the clerk of court and asking what is the problem? Go there and ask to see your file, look through it for any notations or possible reasons why your case has not been resolved. Good luck.

it's my friends divorce and the lawyer won't take the final decree before the judge untill his wife pays the large lawyers balance. Since she won't is there a way for the papers to be out of date?

Hey..guess what...anyone can prepare and file a final judgment for the judges signature. Good luck.