The process of divorce is not a fast one. In fact, the average divorce in Florida takes about 10 months – and that’s when no children are involved. Add in decisions about custody and support for children and the length of time can extend to 16 months or more.
As one of the top 10 states for divorce, Florida’s family court system handles multiple cases a day, but with an average of 4.2 divorces per 1,000 marriages, new cases can face long delays before they’re heard, further adding to the amount of time it can take to get divorced in the Sunshine State.
Florida has an expedited divorce process – one that may only take a few months – but certain qualifications have to be met for couples to qualify for this simplified divorce process.
Who Qualifies for a Simplified Divorce in Florida?
To qualify for a simplified divorce in Florida, a couple must meet all of the following criteria:
- Both spouses agree that the marriage cannot be saved
- No minor or dependent children are a product of the marriage
- The wife does not have any minor or dependent children born during the marriage
- The wife is not currently pregnant
- Both spouses agree on asset, property, and liability division
- Neither spouse is seeking alimony
- Both spouses agree to give up the right to trial and appeal
- Both spouses are willing to go into the clerk’s office to sign the petition
- Both spouses are willing to go to the final hearing
If you do not meet all of these qualifications, you cannot file for an expedited divorce in Florida. This means that you may need to hire an attorney to help ensure your best interests are protected during proceedings.
Average Cost of Divorce in Florida
An expedited divorce will be significantly less expensive than one involving attorneys. According to Martindale Nolo Research’s 2015 divorce study, the average cost of divorce in Florida is $13,500, with attorney’s fees accounting for approximately $10,700 of the total cost. When a contentious battle over child custody is involved, costs increase to an average of $20,300, with attorney’s fees accounting for an average of $17,100.
Divorce can be exceedingly expensive and may even drive some separating couples deep into debt, but going into a contentious divorce without an attorney is never a good idea. The affordable family law attorneys that are part of the My Price Lawyers network provide quality, experienced, and dedicated representation for people in the Tampa area who are considering or have already filed for divorce. Contact us today for a free case referral.
Call (888) 473-6137 to be referred to an affordable divorce attorney in Tampa, Lakeland, St. Petersburg, or surrounding areas of Florida.