Depends if you go thru the state or have a private attorney. An attorney can move things along much quicker than the state, but is still bound by how full the court system is....to get on the docs, and is certainly motivated by money. If not a high-profile, money-making case, he/she could take drag her legs. If thru the state, it could take anywhere from 3-6 months just to get the paperwork in order and get a court date scheduled. Then usually another 1-3 months for the hearing. Then, if everything gets settled during that first hearing, cs will be ordered the first of the next month. If get his wages garnished, could take an additional 2-4 weeks to get your first check.