The court process feels long and my prospective wife is starting to press me. How should I stay patient?

Treat the waiting period as a test of readiness; a man who cannot be patient with the process may also find it hard to be patient with two homes. Pressure from your prospective wife or her family is understandable, but do not let it push you into shortcuts such as marrying abroad quietly. Explain to them the steps under way and the expected dates, so that they do not feel ignored. Use this time to prepare the home, finances and schedule carefully. Keep fulfilling your existing wife's rights in full. Allah says: “Seek help through patience and prayer” (Surah al-Baqarah 2:153). See how long the polygyny process takes.