📅 2026 Update: Changes to Cheap Divorce in Florida

Since the original article was published, Florida has made significant updates to its divorce process. Notably, a new "simplified dissolution" option has been introduced for couples without children. This change allows eligible couples to finalize their divorce in approximately 30 to 45 days.

The earlier article continues further down the page, covering other essential aspects of divorce in Florida.

🚀 Simplified Divorce Process

As of May 28, 2026, Florida allows a "simplified dissolution" for couples who agree on property division and do not have children. This streamlined process can lead to a divorce being finalized in just 30 to 45 days. This change makes divorce quicker and less stressful for many couples.

💰 Updated Fees and Costs

Filing fees for uncontested divorces in Florida typically range from $100 to $400. The exact cost depends on the jurisdiction. Additionally, if notarization is required, fees can vary from a few dollars to around $15 per signature.

📝 Key Documents and Steps

The divorce process starts with a petition for divorce filed by one spouse. This document includes basic information about both parties and the reasons for the divorce. A marital settlement agreement must also be signed, detailing how property and debts will be divided.

The final step is obtaining a Final Decree of Divorce from the court.

⏱️ Faster Processing Times

In Florida, uncontested divorces can be completed quickly. With the new simplified process, couples may finalize their divorce in just a few weeks. This is a notable change from the past, where the timeline could be longer.

📌 Key Takeaways

  • 🚀 Florida introduced a simplified dissolution process for quicker divorces.
  • 💰 Filing fees range from $100 to $400.
  • 📝 Key documents include a petition for divorce and a marital settlement agreement.
  • ⏱️ Uncontested divorces can now be completed in 30 to 45 days.
  • 📌 Understanding fees and required documents is crucial for a smooth process.

💡 Tips for a Smooth Divorce Process

Review all details of your situation with your attorney.

📄 Complete Your Paperwork Accurately

Ensure all forms are filled out correctly. Incomplete paperwork can cause delays in the divorce process. Double-check for signatures and required documents.

⏳ Know the Residency Requirements

Florida requires at least one spouse to have lived in the state for a certain period before filing for divorce. Make sure you meet these requirements to avoid complications.

💼 Consider Simplified Divorce Eligibility

To qualify for the simplified dissolution in Florida, couples must have no minor or dependent children and agree on property division. Understanding these criteria can save time.

📅 Be Aware of Potential Delays

While some jurisdictions process uncontested divorces quickly, others may have long wait times. Be prepared for potential delays, especially if your paperwork has errors.

🛡️ Temporary Orders

Consider whether temporary orders are needed during the divorce process. These orders can address immediate concerns about financial support or asset usage.

📈 Post-Divorce Steps

Once your divorce is finalized, take steps to update beneficiary designations and change titles on assets. This ensures everything is in order after the divorce process is complete.

🏆 Divorce Services Ranked by User Reviews (2026)

Several online services help individuals navigate the divorce process, especially for uncontested cases. These services have been ranked based on Trustpilot data from October 2026. While scores can change, they provide insight into user experiences.

Remember that star ratings are just one signal, as unhappy customers often leave more reviews.

🥇 1. CompleteCase

CompleteCase holds a Trustpilot score of 4.0. It is known for its affordable uncontested divorce services. However, some users report issues with customer service and find website navigation challenging.

🥈 2. Online Divorce

Online Divorce has a Trustpilot rating of 3.9. It is recognized for its user-friendly platform and simple questionnaires. However, customers have noted unexpected fees and upselling concerns.

🥉 3. 3StepDivorce

3StepDivorce has a lower Trustpilot score of 2.6. It specializes in preparing online divorce forms and offers state-specific documents. However, users have experienced customer service delays and reported unexpected fees.

4️⃣ Rocket Lawyer

Rocket Lawyer has a Trustpilot score of 4.5. It is known for creating legal documents and offering affordable legal services. Some users mention that the subscription model may not suit everyone and that they encountered unexpected charges.

5️⃣ LegalZoom

LegalZoom leads with a Trustpilot score of 4.6. It is recognized for its comprehensive legal services and user-friendly platform. However, some reviews mention delays, and navigation can be complex for certain users.

🆓 Free Government or Nonprofit Help

Many states have legal aid organizations that offer free or low-cost assistance for individuals seeking divorce. Additionally, state court websites provide free resources, including forms and instructions for filing for divorce, which can be valuable.

🔎 What to Compare When Choosing Divorce Services

  • 📄 Ease of use of the platform.
  • 💰 Cost and any additional fees.
  • ⏳ Processing times for documents.
  • 🆘 Customer service experiences.
  • 📑 Types of services offered, especially for uncontested divorces.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions

❓ What is a simplified dissolution in Florida?

A simplified dissolution is a quicker divorce process available in Florida for couples without children. It allows eligible couples to finalize their divorce in approximately 30 to 45 days.

👨‍👩‍👦 How do custody arrangements work in divorce?

Custody arrangements are typically outlined in the marital settlement agreement. This includes details about child custody, visitation rights, and child support if applicable.

🕒 What are the waiting periods for divorce in Florida?

Florida does not have a mandatory waiting period for most uncontested divorces. However, couples must still meet all eligibility requirements before finalization.

💔 Can I file for divorce without an attorney?

Yes, individuals can file for divorce without an attorney in Florida, especially if the case is uncontested. However, having an attorney review documents can help avoid mistakes.

📋 What happens if I miss a filing deadline?

Missing a filing deadline can delay the divorce process. It’s important to stay aware of all deadlines and requirements to keep the process on track.

🔄 Can I change my name during the divorce?

Yes, if you wish to restore a former name, you can include this request in your divorce petition. This is often the easiest time to make such a change.

⚖️ Recent Court Rulings in Divorce Cases

Recent court rulings have clarified various aspects of divorce, including property division and custody arrangements. These rulings can impact how divorce cases are handled in Florida.

For more information, you can browse more rulings on the news page.

End of October 2026 Update






 



Because of its high filing fees, Florida can by default be one of the most expensive states in the United States to get a divorce in. Filing fees can be as high as $400, but there are many ways for couples to otherwise minimize the cost of their separation. To ensure a relatively cheap divorce in Florida, both parties must work jointly in good faith to resolve their disagreements over the terms of separation before going to court.



 

Cheap Divorce in Florida


To begin the formal divorce process, one spouse must file a petition with their district family court. The filing fee must be paid at this time, although it can be waived if you receive a civil indecency waiver stating you do not have the financial back up to do so. If you are unwilling to serve the papers to your spouse directly, you may have to pay a fee to a sheriff’s office or process server to perform this task.



 



Working together to obtain a cheap divorce in Florida, a couple must be able to find to a mutually acceptable agreement over areas of dispute such as:



 



• Division of shared property



• Alimony payments



• Child support payments



• Child custody



• Payment of joint debts



• Visitation rights



 



There are many generic templates provided online that couples can use to draw up a legally acceptable separation agreement. Creating this document ahead of time will make it easy to submit it as soon as possible for the court’s approval. This will expedite the process and eliminate the uncertainty of agreeing to a judge’s verdict, which may prove unsatisfactory to both parties.



 



If couples cannot agree to the terms of their separation, they may still be able to reduce the cost of obtaining a cheap divorce in Florida by coming to an agreement in court-supervised informal hearings mediated by public figures. A more expensive variant is hiring a lawyer specializing in divorce mediation who can help both spouses resolve their differences. In both cases, reaching an agreement during the pretrial process is in the best interest of both parties.



 



Should no agreement be reached, you are not required to hire a lawyer to advise or represent you in family court. This attorney may not be any mediation lawyer you have hired. In finding a lawyer, you will be taking on significant expenses that will make it difficult to get a cheap divorce in Florida. Whether you are charged a flat fee or by the hour, it is important to find out during your first meeting with any divorce lawyer you are thinking of hiring exactly how much you can expect to be charged for their services.



 



One factor that can make divorces more expensive for one spouse is alimony. A judge may decide to award alimony on the basis of:



 



• The marriage’s length



• The standard of living throughout the marriage



• Both spouses’ earning capabilities



 



Such payments may be ordered for a fixed period of time or an indefinite basis. The judge will have final authority in determining whether or not you get a cheap divorce in Florida.