If you’re considering filing for divorce in Florida, one of the first questions on your mind is likely: “How long will this take?” The answer depends on a few important factors, including the type of divorce, whether you and your spouse agree on key issues, and the court’s schedule.
In this post, we’ll walk you through the typical timeline for a divorce in Florida and explain what can speed things up—or slow things down.
Florida’s Minimum Waiting Period
Florida law requires a mandatory 20-day waiting period after filing the divorce petition before the court can finalize the divorce. However, this is just the minimum and applies only in the most straightforward cases.
Uncontested vs. Contested Divorce
Uncontested Divorce
If both spouses agree on all major issues—such as property division, child custody, alimony, and support—this is considered an uncontested divorce. These cases can often be finalized in as little as 4 to 6 weeks, assuming all paperwork is filed correctly and the court’s schedule allows.
Contested Divorce
If there are disagreements that require court intervention or mediation, the process becomes contested. These divorces typically take 6 months to over a year, depending on:
-
The complexity of the issues involved
-
How quickly the spouses can reach agreements
-
The availability of the court
Simplified Dissolution of Marriage
Florida also offers a Simplified Dissolution of Marriage process for couples who:
-
Have no children under 18
-
Agree on how to divide assets and debts
-
Are not seeking alimony
-
Are both willing to appear in court
This is often the quickest path to divorce in Florida, typically finalized within 30 days to 2 months, depending on court availability.
Factors That Can Affect the Timeline
Several elements can influence how long your divorce will take:
-
Court Backlogs: Some counties in Florida are busier than others, which can delay hearing dates.
-
Disagreements Over Custody or Finances: The more issues that need resolution, the longer the case may take.
-
Mediation Requirements: Many Florida courts require couples to attend mediation before trial, which can add time but often helps avoid lengthy litigation.
Conclusion: How Long Will Your Divorce Take?
While a simple uncontested divorce in Florida may take just a few weeks, a contested divorce could last several months or more. The best way to estimate your timeline is to consult with an experienced family law attorney who understands the local court system and can help move your case forward as efficiently as 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.