The simple, blanket answer to “how long does a divorce take in Florida” – it generally takes between three and 24 months to complete a divorce in the state of Florida.
However, many factors determine the amount of time it takes to finalize your divorce, including whether it is uncontested or contested. Regardless of what type of divorce it is, hiring an experienced and knowledgeable Orlando divorce lawyer can significantly speed up the divorce process and help ensure you get the best outcome.
Simplified Dissolution of Marriage
A simplified dissolution of marriage is the least complicated type of divorce and, often, the least expensive. Per the Orange County Clerk of Courts, a married couple may obtain a divorce through the simplified dissolution procedure if all of the following statements are true about both spouses at the time that they jointly file a petition for simplified dissolution of marriage:
- The couple has no minor or dependent children
- The couple has no adopted children under 18 years of age
- A spouse is not pregnant
- At least one of the spouses has lived in Florida for the past six months
- The couple has made arrangements for the division of property and the payment of their obligations
- Both parties agree that the marriage is irretrievably broken
- Both parties agree to use the simplified dissolution of marriage procedure
- Both parties must be present at the hearing
- Both parties are aware of the following:
- After the dissolution becomes final, neither spouse has any right to expect money or support from the other, except for what is included in the property settlement agreement
- By choosing the simplified dissolution procedure, both spouses give up certain legal rights that they would have if they used the regular dissolution procedure
If the above criteria cannot be met, you must file a regular petition for dissolution of marriage.
Dissolution of Marriage with No Children and No Property
A married couple may obtain a divorce using this process if they have no marital assets and/or marital liabilities, have no dependent children and neither spouse is pregnant.
At least one of the parties must have lived in Florida for six months prior to filing.
Dissolution of Marriage with No Children
A married couple may obtain a divorce using this process if they have marital assets and/or marital liabilities, but have no dependent children and neither spouse is pregnant.
At least one of the parties must have lived in Florida for six months prior to filing.
Dissolution of Marriage with Children
A married couple may obtain a divorce using this process if they have dependent or minor children together or if either spouse is pregnant.
At least one of the parties must have lived in Florida for six months prior to filing.
Uncontested Divorce
An uncontested divorce is when both parties agree on all of the terms of the divorce, yet they do not qualify for a simplified dissolution of marriage. These types of divorces take roughly three to four months once all the terms are agreed to and signed by the parties.
Contested Divorce
A contested divorce is the most complicated and can take anywhere from 18 to 24 months or longer, not including appeals. In almost every court in the state of Florida, mediation is required, except occasionally for cases involving domestic violence or abuse.
If you’re considering divorce, or have concerns regarding your divorce, contact an Orlando divorce lawyer today. At FCLC Group, we know that divorces can get complicated. We take pride in using our expertise for you, and we’re committed to resolving your case from start to finish.
