One of the first questions people ask when considering divorce is, “How long will this take?” In Florida, the answer depends on several factors, including whether the divorce is contested or uncontested, the complexity of the issues involved, and how cooperative both spouses are throughout the process.

Florida’s Residency Requirement

Before filing for divorce in Florida, at least one spouse must have lived in the state for a minimum of six months prior to filing. Once this requirement is met, the divorce process can officially begin.

Uncontested Divorce: The Fastest Option

An uncontested divorce occurs when both spouses agree on all major issues, including:

• Division of assets and debts

• Child custody and parenting plans

• Child support

• Alimony (if applicable)

In Florida, uncontested divorces are often referred to as “simplified dissolutions of marriage.” If the paperwork is complete and properly filed, an uncontested divorce can be finalized in as little as 30 to 60 days. Some cases may move even faster, depending on the court’s schedule.

Contested Divorce: More Time-Consuming

A contested divorce happens when spouses cannot agree on one or more key issues. These cases typically take longer due to negotiations, discovery, hearings, and possibly a trial.

On average, a contested divorce in Florida may take six months to a year or longer, depending on factors such as:

• The complexity of marital assets

• Disputes over child custody or support

• Allegations of hidden assets or misconduct

• Court availability and scheduling

High-conflict divorces or cases involving significant assets can take well over a year to resolve.

Factors That Can Affect Divorce Timelines

Several variables can influence how long a divorce takes in Florida:

1. Level of Cooperation
The more cooperative both parties are, the faster the process tends to move. Frequent disputes or refusal to compromise can significantly delay proceedings.

2. Children Involved
Divorces involving children often take longer due to the need to establish parenting plans, time-sharing schedules, and child support arrangements.

3. Asset and Debt Complexity
Dividing businesses, retirement accounts, real estate, or large debts can extend the timeline due to valuations and negotiations.

4. Court Backlogs
Court schedules vary by county. Some courts are busier than others, which can impact how quickly hearings and trials are set.

5. Mediation Requirements
Florida courts often require mediation before a case goes to trial. While mediation can add a step, it often shortens the overall timeline by helping parties reach agreements faster.

Mandatory Waiting Period in Florida

Florida does not impose a mandatory waiting period for divorce once papers are filed. However, there is typically a 20-day response period after one spouse is served with divorce papers, which can affect the earliest possible finalization date.

Can You Speed Up the Process?

While not every divorce can be rushed, certain steps may help move things along:

• Hiring an experienced family law attorney early

• Providing complete and accurate financial information

• Considering mediation or settlement negotiations

• Avoiding unnecessary court filings or delays

Final Thoughts

There is no one-size-fits-all timeline for divorce in Florida. While some cases can be resolved in just a few weeks, others may take many months or longer. Understanding what factors influence the process can help you set realistic expectations and make informed decisions.

If you are considering divorce, speaking with a knowledgeable Florida family law attorney can help you understand your options and work toward the most efficient resolution possible.

Ossian, Zdravko & Gregg, LLC practices law as a divorce attorney, and family law attorney in Palm Harbor, Clearwater and the surrounding area.

For more information, visit our website at https://www.attorney-palm-harbor.com/
or call (727) 787-5919.