How Long Does It Take To Get A Divorce In Florida?
Divorce can be a long and heartbreaking process, but it’s especially challenging when you don’t know all the legal steps involved. If you’re living in Florida and looking to divorce your spouse, you may be wondering how long it will take to get through the process. Florida is known for its relatively simple and straightforward divorce laws. However, the time it takes to finalize a divorce in Florida can depend on several factors. In this article, we’ll cover everything you need to know about getting a divorce in Florida, including how long it takes, how much it costs, and a few common FAQs.
How Long Does a Florida Divorce Take?
The amount of time it takes to finalize a divorce in Florida depends on several factors, including whether the divorce is contested or uncontested, how long the couple has been married, and how complex the assets and liabilities are. Some couples can finalize their divorce in as little as a few weeks, while others may take several months or even years. For example, if both parties are in full agreement about the divorce, the couple might be able to complete their divorce in a matter of weeks. In such a case, each party can sign a written agreement known as a Marital Settlement Agreement (MSA), which outlines the terms of their divorce. However, suppose the couple can’t agree on significant issues like child custody, alimony, or the division of assets. In that case, the divorce process can take longer as a judge must make a final decision on these matters.
The Timeline for a Florida Contested Divorce
If you are unable to reach an agreement with your spouse, you will need to file a contested divorce in Florida. This involves filing a Petition for Dissolution of Marriage with the court. Once the Petition is filed, your spouse will be served with the documents by a court-approved process server. If your spouse contests the divorce, a judge will likely order mediation to try and resolve any issues. If mediation fails, the case goes to trial. A contested divorce in Florida can take anywhere from several months to several years to finalize.
The Timeline for a Florida Uncontested Divorce
On the other hand, if you and your spouse are both in agreement on all issues such as child custody, child support, distribution of property, and alimony, you may file an Uncontested Divorce. The process is much simpler, faster, and less expensive than a contested divorce. Typically, the duration of uncontested divorce proceedings is four to five weeks from beginning to end. If you are going through an uncontested divorce in Florida, you and your spouse can finalize your divorce in a matter of weeks, without ever having to go to court.
How Much Does a Florida Divorce Cost?
The cost of a divorce in Florida depends on several factors, such as whether the divorce is contested or uncontested, how much property the couple has to divide, and how much debt the couple has amassed during the marriage. The filing fee for a divorce in Florida is generally $408.00 for an uncontested divorce and may increase to around $2,500 for a contested matter. Other essential costs may include hiring a divorce attorney, private investigators, and appraisers. The total cost could range from a few thousand dollars for an uncontested divorce up to tens of thousands for a contested matter.
FAQs
Q: How long do I have to be a resident of Florida to file for a divorce?
A: Either you or your spouse must be a resident of Florida for at least six months before filing for divorce.
Q: How long do I have to wait to get a divorce in Florida?
A: Once you file for divorce in Florida, there isn’t a minimum waiting period to obtain a divorce. However, the remaining steps and the time involved will depend on the circumstances of your case.
Q: What is a simplified divorce in Florida?
A: A simplified divorce is a type of uncontested divorce for couples who meet certain eligibility requirements and agree on all issues, such as dividing their property and their finances.
Q: Can I get a divorce in Florida without an attorney?
A: Yes, you can file for a divorce in Florida without an attorney. However, it’s always best to consult a knowledgeable family law attorney to protect your legal rights and help ensure the process is simple and straightforward.
In conclusion, it’s essential to understand that the length of time it takes to get a divorce in Florida will depend on each couple’s unique circumstances. While an uncontested divorce can finalize in a matter of weeks, a contested divorce could take months or years to resolve the disputed issues and obtain a final judgment. It is always recommended to consult with an experienced family law attorney to help you navigate the complex process of filing for divorce in Florida.