Divorce—legally known in Florida as dissolution of marriage—is the formal process of ending a marital relationship. While some divorces are relatively straightforward, many involve complex legal, financial, and parenting issues that can have long-lasting consequences. Whether your case is contested or uncontested, with children or without, each divorce is unique and should be handled with careful attention to your individual circumstances.
Working with an experienced Florida divorce attorney helps ensure that your rights are protected, your obligations are clearly defined, and your future is positioned as securely as possible.
There is no one-size-fits-all divorce. Florida divorces generally fall into several categories:
An uncontested divorce occurs when both spouses agree on all major issues, including:
Uncontested divorces are often faster, less expensive, and less emotionally taxing—but they still require strict compliance with Florida law and court procedures.
A contested divorce arises when spouses disagree on one or more key issues. These cases may involve:
Contested divorces often require mediation, hearings, and sometimes trial.
Before filing for divorce in Florida, at least one spouse must have lived in Florida for a minimum of six (6) months prior to filing the petition. Residency must be proven to the court, typically through:
Failing to establish residency can result in dismissal or delay of your case. For more information, see our blog post: https://crawford-law.com/home/f/understanding-jurisdiction-venue-in-florida-family-law-cases
Florida follows a no-fault divorce system. This means:
Fault may still be relevant in limited circumstances—such as alimony or dissipation of marital assets—but it is not required to obtain a divorce.
The divorce process begins when one spouse (the Petitioner) files a Petition for Dissolution of Marriage with the circuit court in the county where either spouse resides.
After filing:
Errors at this stage—such as filing the wrong petition or improper service—can significantly delay your case.
Florida uses the principle of equitable distribution, which means marital assets and debts are divided fairly, though not always equally.
When dividing property, Florida courts may evaluate:
An experienced divorce lawyer helps ensure property division is properly classified and valued.
When minor children are involved, divorce becomes significantly more complex.
Florida courts decide parenting issues based on the best interests of the child, not parental preference. Courts encourage both parents to maintain meaningful relationships with their children whenever possible.
A parenting plan must address:
Child support is calculated using statutory guidelines based on:
Even in uncontested divorces, child-related issues receive close judicial scrutiny.
Alimony—also called spousal support—may be awarded in certain cases.
Courts examine:
Florida law recognizes several types of alimony, and not every divorce results in a support award.
In most Florida divorce cases, mediation is required before a case can proceed to trial. See https://crawford-law.com/home/f/the-crucial-role-of-court-ordered-mediation-in-florida-divorce
Mediation involves a neutral third party who helps spouses attempt to resolve disputes outside of court. Mediation can address:
Successful mediation often saves time, money, and emotional stress.
Even in uncontested divorces, Florida divorce law is procedural and unforgiving of mistakes. An experienced divorce attorney can:
Divorce judgments create binding court orders that can be difficult to modify later.
If you are considering divorce in Jacksonville & Duval County, Clay County, St. Johns County, Nassau County, or Putnam County, working with a local Florida divorce attorney ensures familiarity with:
Florida requires a minimum 20-day waiting period after filing. Uncontested divorces may be finalized within 30–60 days, while contested cases can take significantly longer.
A lawyer is not required, but legal guidance helps ensure proper filing, accurate agreements, and enforceable final judgments.
No. A lawyer may represent only one spouse. In uncontested cases, the other spouse may proceed without counsel.
The marital home is subject to equitable distribution. Options may include sale, buy-out, or deferred sale, depending on the circumstances.
In most cases, yes. Courts typically require mediation before allowing a trial.
Divorce is a major life transition with lasting legal and financial consequences. Whether your divorce is simple or complex, having experienced legal guidance helps protect your interests and your future.
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CALL (904) 422-4634 OR CLICK HERE TO SET UP YOUR 30 MINUTE PHONE CONSULTATION
At Crawford Law, we understand that family law matters can be emotionally charged and stressful for all parties involved. Our experienced attorney and staff are dedicated to helping our clients navigate the legal process with compassion and understanding. We handle a wide range of family law matters, including divorce, child custody, support, and property division. Our goal is to provide our clients with the guidance and support they need to achieve the best possible outcome for their situation.