How Long Does a Divorce Usually Take in Florida? Here’s What to Expect.

If you’re considering a divorce in Florida, one of the first questions you’re likely to ask is: How long will this take? In Florida, the answer depends on a variety of factors, including whether the divorce is contested or uncontested, how cooperative both parties are, and the court’s current schedule. For couples who agree on all term including property division, alimony, and the parenting plan, an uncontested divorce can be finalized in as little as 30 days after filing, thanks to Florida’s no-fault divorce laws.

But not all divorces are quick and easy. If spouses don’t have an agreement on key issues, the divorce is considered contested, which significantly slows down the process. Contested divorces often involve court hearings, mediation, and extensive negotiation, sometimes stretching the timeline to several months or even over a year. Child custody disputes or complex financial assets can add additional layers of time and complexity. Plus, backlogs in the court system can lengthen the timeline to get to the final judgment. It’s not unusual for litigants to wait for months for hearing times in Orlando.

Whether your divorce takes a few weeks or more than a year, it’s important to stay informed and organized. Working with an attorney or mediator can help streamline the process, and being proactive about paperwork and communication with your spouse can avoid unnecessary delays. Every divorce is different, but understanding the typical timeline in Florida can help you navigate this life transition with a little more clarity and a lot more confidence.

Michael DeVoe is a divorce attorney in Orlando, Florida practicing contested divorce, uncontested divorce, timesharing, visitation, custody, paternity, child support, injunctions, and other family law cases.