How Long Does an Uncontested Divorce Take in Florida?

An uncontested divorce in Florida can move much faster than a contested divorce, but it is not immediate. Even when both spouses agree on major divorce terms, the timeline depends on court schedules and whether any issues need clarification before the final hearing.

In many straightforward cases, an uncontested Florida divorce may be completed in several weeks to a few months. However, the exact timeline depends on the case. 

What Is an Uncontested Divorce?

An uncontested divorce means both spouses agree on all issues necessary to end the marriage. In other words, there is nothing left for the judge to decide at trial.

That usually means the spouses have resolved:

• Division of marital property
• Alimony, if applicable
• Time-sharing and parenting plans
• Child support
• Use or sale of the marital home
• Attorney’s fees, if any

If even one major issue remains unresolved, the case may no longer be truly uncontested. It may still settle later, but disagreements can slow the process.

Florida’s Minimum Waiting Period

Florida has a short mandatory waiting period. A judge generally cannot enter a final judgment of dissolution of marriage until at least 20 days have passed from the date the divorce petition was filed.

This does not mean every uncontested divorce is finished in 20 days. It only means the court cannot finalize the divorce before that point. The spouses still need properly completed paperwork, signed agreements, and a final hearing or review by the court.

What Can Slow Down an Uncontested Divorce?

An uncontested divorce can take longer when the paperwork or procedural steps are incomplete. Courts may reject filings or require corrections if important terms are missing. Additionally, unresolved divorce terms can lengthen the proceedings. 

Common delays include:

• Incorrect or incomplete divorce forms
• Missing financial affidavits
• Failure to properly serve or obtain a waiver from the other spouse
• Parenting plan errors
• Child support calculation problems
• Unclear property division terms
• Disputes over retirement accounts
• Issues involving real estate
• Delays getting a final hearing date
• One spouse changing their mind before the final judgment

Children can also add time because the parenting plan and child support terms must be complete and serve the child’s best interests. Judges will not approve vague agreements that fail to protect the child’s welfare. 

Simplified Divorce May Be Quicker in Some Cases

Some Florida couples qualify for simplified dissolution of marriage. This process is designed for spouses who:

• Have no minor or dependent children together
• Are not seeking alimony
• Agree that the marriage is irretrievably broken
• Have reached a complete agreement on the property and the debts

Simplified divorce can be faster than uncontested divorce because the issues are limited. However, both spouses must qualify for the process and cooperate throughout the proceedings. 

How to Keep an Uncontested Divorce Moving

The best way to avoid delays is to resolve the major issues before filing or early in the case. A written marital settlement agreement should be complete and practical.

To keep the case moving, spouses should:

• Confirm residency requirements before filing
• Prepare accurate financial disclosures
• Identify all marital assets and debts
• Resolve parenting and support issues in writing
• Avoid vague settlement terms
• Sign all required documents promptly
• Respond quickly to court requests
• Make sure the final agreement is in compliance with Florida law

Some spouses try to handle an uncontested divorce on their own. That may work in simple cases, but mistakes can be costly. A divorce lawyer can help ensure the agreement is complete and your rights are protected before you sign anything final.

Call McMichen Cinami & Demps to Arrange a Free Consultation With an Orlando Divorce Lawyer

Even when you and your spouse agree on the terms of your divorce, it is important to ensure that your paperwork is complete and your settlement complies with Florida law. Small mistakes or overlooked issues can delay the process or create complications long after the divorce is finalized.

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