How Long Does It Take to Get Divorced in Florida?

In Florida, how long a divorce takes depends on how much you and your spouse agree. An uncontested divorce can wrap up in about 3 months, while a contested one may take 1 to 2 years or even longer for complex cases. Collaborative Divorce offers a faster, private alternative if you and your spouse commit to working together. Bottom line: the more you agree upfront, the quicker and cheaper the process.

There is no one-size-fits-all answer to the question “How long does it take to get divorced?” The timeline depends on the type of divorce, how much you and your spouse agree on, and how complex your situation is.

Uncontested Divorce: The Fastest Option

If you and your spouse agree on everything including dividing property, handling debt, and deciding on child custody, you may qualify for an uncontested divorce. An uncontested divorce can take around 3 months (sometimes even faster). It is best for couples with no kids and who have few assets. Less paperwork, no fighting in court, and more cooperation are all reasons that an uncontested divorce can be completed so quickly. This is the simplest and most affordable type of divorce. But it only works if you are both on the same page from the beginning of the divorce.

Contested Divorce in Central Florida

If you and your spouse cannot agree on one or more issues, your divorce is considered contested. Here is how the process usually goes:

1. You or your spouse will file for divorce
2. The other is served and has 20 days to respond
3. You both must exchange financial documents within 45 days
4. Mediation is scheduled to try and settle the case

• If Mediation works, the divorce may wrap up in 3–6 months
• If Mediation doesn’t work, the case could take 1 to 2 years to resolve
• Complex cases (such as those with business assets or custody disputes) can last 3–5 years

Collaborative Divorce: A Faster, More Private Option

Collaborative Divorce is a unique approach where you and your spouse and your attorneys agree to work together to reach a solution without going to court.

Why choose Collaborative Divorce?

• Keeps your personal finances and documents private
• Gives you control over the process instead of a judge
• It reduces stress and encourages cooperation
• It can be much faster than traditional court battles
• Neutral divorce professionals bring expertise to the process for financial issues and child related issues.

Pro Tip: The more you and your spouse can agree on at the beginning, the faster and cheaper your divorce will be.

Zaneta Matthews is an Orlando family law attorney known for guiding clients through the divorce process with empathy and clarity. She believes that how a divorce begins can greatly influence how it ends and works with clients to set the tone for respectful, collaborative outcomes. She is a member of Collaborative Divorce Central Florida and the Florida Academy of Collaborative Professionals. If you need help with your divorce question? 📞 Call Zaneta Matthews at (407) 630-8959 to schedule a consultation.