The Timeline of Divorce in Florida

Divorce can feel overwhelming, especially when you do not know what to expect. Many people going through a divorce in Florida want to understand how long the process may take and what steps are involved along the way. Although every divorce is different, most cases follow a similar timeline.

Some divorces are resolved within a few months, while others may take much longer, depending on the issues involved. Factors like child custody disputes, property division, and disagreements between spouses can all affect how long the process lasts.

Understanding the general timeline of divorce in Florida can help you feel more prepared as your case moves forward.

Step 1: Meeting with a Divorce Lawyer

Many people begin the divorce process by speaking with a family law attorney. During an initial consultation, you can discuss your marriage, finances, children, and goals for the divorce.

An attorney may help explain:

• Florida divorce laws
• Filing requirements
• Child custody and support issues
• Property division rules
• Possible timelines for your case

This early stage allows people to ask questions and better understand their legal options before officially starting the divorce process.

Gathering documents and financial information during this stage may also help make the process smoother later on.

Step 2: Filing the Divorce Petition

A divorce officially begins when one spouse files a Petition for Dissolution of Marriage with the court. The spouse who files the petition is called the petitioner, while the other spouse is called the respondent.

Florida is a no-fault divorce state. In most cases, the filing spouse only needs to state that the marriage is “irretrievably broken.” After filing, the petition must be formally served on the other spouse.

This stage may happen relatively quickly, but proper filing and service procedures are important because mistakes can delay the case.

Step 3: The Response Period

After receiving divorce papers, the responding spouse generally has 20 days to file an answer with the court in Florida.

The response may:

• Agree with the petition
• Disagree with certain claims
• Raise additional issues
• Include counterclaims

If the responding spouse does not answer within the required time, the court may enter a default judgment.

This stage helps identify areas of agreement and disagreement early in the process.

Step 4: Financial Disclosures

Florida law generally requires both spouses to exchange financial information during divorce proceedings. This process is called mandatory financial disclosure.

Common documents may include:

• Tax returns
• Pay stubs
• Bank account records
• Retirement account statements
• Credit card balances
• Property information

Accurate financial disclosures are important because they affect property division, child support, and alimony issues.

If financial information is incomplete or disputed, this stage may take longer.

Step 5: Temporary Orders

Some divorce cases require temporary court orders while the divorce is still pending. These orders help address important issues until the case is finalized.

Temporary orders may involve:

• Child custody schedules
• Child support
• Spousal support
• Use of the marital home
• Payment of certain expenses

Temporary arrangements can help provide stability for families during the divorce process.

Not every divorce requires temporary hearings or orders, but they are common in cases involving children or financial disputes.

Step 6: Negotiation and Settlement Discussions

Many Florida divorces are resolved through negotiation rather than a final court hearing. During this stage, spouses and their attorneys work to resolve disagreements involving property, support, and parenting issues.

Settlement discussions may address:

• Division of assets and debts
• Parenting plans
• Child support
• Alimony
• Timesharing schedules

Some couples can resolve issues relatively quickly, while others take longer to negotiate complex financial or parenting matters.

Step 7: Mediation

Florida courts often require mediation before a divorce case can proceed further. Mediation is a structured meeting where a neutral third party helps spouses discuss possible agreements.

The mediator does not decide the outcome. Instead, the mediator helps encourage communication and problem-solving.

Mediation may help couples:

• Resolve disputes cooperatively
• Improve communication
• Avoid additional delays
• Reach customized agreements

If agreements are reached, they may be written into a settlement agreement for court approval.

Step 8: Parenting Plans and Child Custody Decisions

If children are involved, parents must usually create a parenting plan addressing custody and timesharing issues. Florida courts focus on the child’s best interests when reviewing parenting arrangements.

Parenting plans often include:

• Weekly schedules
• Holiday schedules
• Transportation arrangements
• Decision-making responsibilities
• Communication rules

Parents who cooperate during this process may reach agreements more efficiently and reduce stress for their children.

Disagreements involving custody or relocation can sometimes extend the divorce timeline.

Step 9: Finalizing the Divorce

Once all major issues are resolved, the court may schedule a final hearing to officially finalize the divorce.

During the final stage, the court may review:

• Settlement agreements
• Parenting plans
• Financial arrangements
• Compliance with Florida law

If everything is approved, the judge enters a Final Judgment of Dissolution of Marriage.

Simple uncontested divorces may finish within a few months, while contested divorces involving significant disagreements may take much longer. The exact timeline depends on the complexity of the case and the willingness of both parties to cooperate.

What Factors Can Delay a Divorce?

Several factors can increase the time it takes to complete a divorce in Florida.

Common causes of delays include:

• Disputes over child custody
• Hidden assets or incomplete disclosures
• Scheduling conflicts
• Lack of cooperation between spouses

Working toward cooperative solutions whenever possible may help reduce delays and create smoother outcomes for everyone involved.

Contact the Orlando Divorce Lawyers at McMichen, Cinami & Demps for Help Today

The divorce process can feel stressful and uncertain, especially when important issues involving children, finances, and property are involved. Understanding the timeline of divorce in Florida can help you feel more prepared for each stage of the process.

McMichen, Cinami & Demps helps individuals and families throughout Orlando navigate divorce and family law matters with experienced legal guidance and compassionate support. 

Contact us today at (407) 898-2161 for a free consultation with an experienced Orlando divorce attorney.