How Long Does it Take to Finalize a Divorce in Florida?

Filing for divorce is very stressful. Many people simply want the process to be over so they can move on with their life. Truthfully, no two divorce cases are alike and so, it can be difficult to determine exactly how long your divorce will take. While some divorces are finalized fairly quickly, others take months or even one year or more to fully resolve all of the issues. Below, our Fort Lauderdale divorce lawyer outlines some guidelines you can use to determine how long your case may take.

How Long Does Simplified Divorce Take in Florida? 

The fastest way to get a divorce in Florida is through a simplified divorce. Not all couples are eligible for this option, however. To obtain a simplified divorce in Florida, you must meet the following requirements:

• You and your spouse must agree to the divorce and property division
• You and your spouse cannot have minor children together and the wife cannot be pregnant
• You and your spouse must both waive the right to pursue alimony
• At least one spouse must have lived in Florida for the past six months
• Both parties must attend the final hearing
• Both parties must waive their right to a trial and appeal

If you meet the above requirements, your case may be finalized in approximately 30 days.

How Long Does Uncontested Divorce Take in Florida?

A simplified divorce is one type of uncontested divorce. However, if you and your spouse agreed to all terms, you can still obtain an uncontested divorce even if you have children together or want to request alimony. You will have to wait a minimum of 20 days before your case is finalized. Most uncontested divorce cases, though, take approximately four weeks to three months to fully resolve.

How Long Does Contested Divorce Take in Florida?

Many people first imagine a contested divorce when they consider ending their marriage. These types of divorces often involve long drawn-out battles in the courtroom. A contested divorce is one in which you and your spouse cannot agree to the terms such as property division, child custody, child support, alimony, and more.

Contested issues are typically sent to mediation. During mediation, you and your spouse may be able to compromise and reach an agreement, ultimately settling your divorce during this stage. While mediation is faster than a divorce trial, it can still take time to schedule and complete. If a contested case does make it to the trial stage, discovery and court hearings are still required, which will also take time.

Most contested divorce cases in Florida take between six months and two years, depending on the complexities of a specific case.

Our Divorce Lawyer in Fort Lauderdale Can Prevent Unnecessary Delays 

There are several reasons divorce can take so much time. At Haber Blank, our Fort Lauderdale divorce lawyer can help determine which type of divorce is right for you and guide you through the process to ensure no mistakes are made that will unnecessarily delay your case. Call us today at 954-767-0300 or contact us online to schedule a consultation and to learn more about how we can help with your case.

Source:

leg.state.fl.us/statutes/index.cfm?App_mode=Display_Statute&URL=0000-0099/0061/0061.html