How Long Will My Family Law Case Take in Orlando, FL?

The length of your family law case depends on several variables. A family law matter in Orlando, Florida can take a few weeks to several years to resolve. 

Factors that influence the duration of your case include the nature of the case, the complexity of the legal issues, the level of conflict between the parties, and the willingness of the parties to negotiate and compromise. An Orlando family law and divorce attorney can guide you through the weeks, months, or years ahead.

The Nature of the Family Law Case

The nature of your family law case primarily determines its length. Different cases have different timelines. 

Uncontested divorces, for example, may conclude within three or so weeks or a few months. This is particularly true when the parties agree on critical issues, including property division, spousal support, and child custody. 

In these cases, resolving disputes does not require judicial intervention. In Florida, uncontested divorces generally require a 20-day waiting period between filing the petition and a final order. Time to prepare and negotiate beforehand can make this significantly longer.

On the other hand, contested divorces or child custody cases may last months or even years. Disagreements are abundant in these cases, and many must be resolved with court intervention. 

Custody cases are particularly lengthy as they typically require the court to consider the child’s best interests. This may involve weighing evidence and investigating parenting capabilities or a child’s well-being. Consultations with child psychologists or social workers may be required, which lengthen the process. 

Cases that involve accusations of domestic violence or substance abuse may also require more time to resolve. Courts may order parties to complete drug tests or psychological evaluations, which take time to complete.  

The Complexity of the Legal Issues

The complexity of the legal issues in your case can impact its duration. 

For example, high-net-worth divorces typically require intricate financial assessments due to the division of complex marital assets. These assets may include businesses, investment properties, and retirement funds. Financial experts, business evaluators, and tax advisors are often required to divide these assets, which can extend the duration of your case.

In even simple divorces, however, disputes may arise concerning key legal issues. These disputes may involve the date of separation, the value of marital assets, the roles each party played in the family, or the parenting abilities of each parent. These disputes may require conducting discovery, having hearings, or attending a trial. This can significantly lengthen a case’s duration. 

The Level of Conflict Between the Parties

A high conflict level between the parties can extend the duration of the family law case. 

Due to their personal nature, family law cases are fraught with emotions. Resolution can occur rapidly when parties are willing to negotiate and find a middle ground. Unfortunately, high emotions can turn simple matters into contentious ones, triggering long delays.

Methods such as mediation can expedite the process. In mediation, parties negotiate to find common ground and an agreeable resolution without court intervention. However, if an agreement cannot be reached, you should expect your case to face multiple hearings and a trial. An Orlando family law attorney can represent you in all stages of your case, including during mediation. 

Consult a Family Law Attorney in Orlando, FL for Help With Your Case

The quality of resolution matters more than the speed. Rushing a family law case can lead to hasty and detrimental decisions. These can have negative, long-lasting impacts on your life and your family.

While it is challenging to provide an exact timeline, an experienced family lawyer can give you a timeframe based on your case and their knowledge of the Orlando court system. 

Realistic timelines alleviate stress and help you make sound decisions. Successfully navigating any family law matter requires patience, understanding, and the right legal guidance to secure the best possible outcome for your future and your family.

Contact Our Divorce Law Firm in Orlando, FL

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