Can I Get a Quick Divorce in Orlando, FL?

If you’ve already decided it’s time to end your marriage, it’s natural to hope the process can be quick and painless. In Orlando, Florida, there are routes for divorce that can move quicker than others, but many factors can slow things down.

The short answer? The time it takes to get divorced in Orlando depends on your situation. This guide discusses your options under Florida family law, including a deeper look at doing it yourself — and a few practical tips to help you navigate the process.

Simplified Dissolution of Marriage in Florida

Florida’s simplified dissolution process is the fastest option available, but it is strict. If all these conditions are met, the courts may grant your divorce in just a few weeks.

To qualify, you and your spouse must:

  • Mutually agree to end the marriage.
  • Not have any minor or dependent children together, and cannot be pregnant.
  • Agree on how to divide property, assets, and debts.
  • Not seek alimony or spousal support.
  • Appear at the final hearing.

The final hearing is typically the only required appearance. However, if issues surface or if further information is needed, more court appearances could be necessary.

Uncontested Divorce in Florida

If you don’t qualify for simplified dissolution, you might still choose to file for an uncontested divorce. You and your spouse must agree on key issues to qualify for an uncontested divorce.

These include:

Uncontested divorces usually move faster than contested ones because there aren’t any disputes, so there’s no need for major litigation.

What Can Delay a Divorce in Orlando?

Even in the best case, delays can be caused by:

  • Mistakes in paperwork or missing items
  • Court backlogs or full calendars
  • Late disagreements over property, support, or custody
  • Service of process issues (if one spouse can’t be reached)

Working with a seasoned Orlando divorce lawyer can sidestep many of these traps.

DIY Divorce (“Pro Se”) in Florida

Florida allows you to represent yourself (“pro se”). The legal system provides some support for self-represented litigants. When representing yourself, it’s essential to understand the resources available and the potential pitfalls of filing pro se.

Help Available for Pro Se Litigants

For general help, Florida’s Office of Court Administration has a webpage for self-represented litigants with guidance on the dissolution of marriage process. Their self-help center publishes all court-approved family law forms and instructions in its family law forms section. Look for “Dissolution of Marriage/Divorce” to take you to the divorce forms, such as Form 12.901(a) for simplified dissolution.

Many county court clerk websites, such as the Orange County Clerk of Courts, also offer pre-assembled divorce packets or form lists.

Always consult your circuit court’s website for the correct forms; they may have different documents. Orlando’s circuit court, the Judicial 9th Circuit, offers its own packets. While these may look similar to the general forms, the best practice is to use what your circuit court provides.

The state also offers a program called “DIY Florida” to help pro se litigants start a new court case or respond to an existing one. The program asks specific questions to create legal documents that can be filed electronically or by hand.

Risks of Filing Pro Se

The court generally expects pro se litigants to follow the same rules as attorneys. Mistakes or omissions on forms can lead to delays, rejections, or unfavorable orders. If your case involves children, complex property, or contentious issues, pro se representation is especially risky.

Without an Orlando family law lawyer, you are solely accountable for following all relevant laws and procedures, even if they are confusing. You can’t rely on court staff or the self-help office for legal advice. They might point you to the correct forms or explain general deadlines, but they cannot tell you how to interpret the law or strategize your case.

Likewise, the “DIY Florida” option only really helps you fill out forms. You’ll still be responsible for understanding the substantive legal requirements and standards, including how to file your paperwork correctly. Failure to meet these standards could significantly impact the outcome of your case.

If you go this route, consider consulting an attorney, even just to review your paperwork.

Contact McMichen, Cinami & Demps Today for Guidance from Our Orlando Divorce Attorneys

So, can you get a quick divorce in Orlando, FL? Possibly — if your case aligns with the requirements for simplified or uncontested divorces.

Reach out to McMichen, Cinami & Demps to speak with an Orlando family law attorney about your options or to review your paperwork. Members of our team are trained in collaborative law, so getting legal help does not have to mean a combative divorce process.

No matter how simple or complicated your situation, we will work to guide you efficiently, sensitively, and effectively.

Contact the experienced Orlando divorce lawyers at McMichen, Cinami & Demps today for legal assistance. Contact our Orlando, FL office at (407) 898-2161 to schedule a free consultation.

McMichen, Cinami & Demps – Orlando Office
1500 E Concord St
Orlando, FL 32803