The length of a Florida divorce depends mainly on whether the case is contested. An uncontested divorce can conclude within a few weeks of the required waiting period, while a contested divorce often takes several months to more than a year. A Tampa uncontested divorce lawyer can give you a realistic estimate based on your circumstances.
The Mandatory 20-Day Waiting Period
Florida sets a minimum period before any divorce can be finalized. Under section 61.19 of the Florida Statutes, no final judgment may be entered until at least 20 days have passed from the date the petition is filed. A court may waive the delay only when waiting would cause injustice, which is rare. In practice, even the simplest divorce takes a few weeks at minimum.
Uncontested and Simplified Cases
When spouses agree on every issue, the case can move close to that minimum. An uncontested divorce, or a simplified dissolution for couples who qualify, can often finalize within roughly four to six weeks, depending on the court’s calendar. Preparing complete paperwork in advance and completing any required parenting course early help keep the case on schedule.
Contested Cases
A contested divorce follows the full divorce process: disclosure, temporary relief, mediation, and possibly trial. Each stage adds time, and disputes over property, support, or time-sharing extend it further. Cases involving complex assets or a crowded court docket can extend beyond a year. A St. Petersburg divorce lawyer can identify which issues are likely to slow your case.
Factors That Affect the Timeline
Several factors influence how long a case takes: whether the parties cooperate, the number and difficulty of contested issues, the presence of minor children and the required parenting course, the complexity of the marital estate, and the workload of the county court. Reaching agreement on as many issues as possible is the most reliable way to shorten the process. A Clearwater divorce lawyer can help you focus on the disputes that matter and resolve the rest.
The McKinney Law Group works to move clients’ cases forward efficiently while protecting their interests at every stage. Consult a Tampa family lawyer and contact our office to schedule a consultation regarding your situation.