How to File for Divorce in Florida
Complete guide to Florida dissolution of marriage, forms, and requirements for 2025
Steps to File for Divorce in Florida
1
Meet Residency Requirements
At least one spouse must have been a Florida resident for a minimum of 6 months immediately before filing.
2
Choose Type of Divorce
Florida offers Simplified Dissolution (for qualifying couples) or Regular Dissolution. Florida is a pure no-fault state.
3
File the Petition
File a Petition for Dissolution of Marriage with the Circuit Court in the county where you or your spouse resides.
4
Serve Your Spouse
For regular dissolution, your spouse must be served by sheriff, process server, or certified mail. 20 days to respond.
5
Complete Financial Affidavits
Both parties must complete and exchange mandatory financial affidavits within 45 days of service.
6
Finalize After 20-Day Wait
After the mandatory 20-day waiting period and resolution of all issues, attend final hearing for your divorce decree.
Florida Divorce Requirements
Residency Requirement
6 Months
At least one spouse must have been a Florida resident for 6 months before filing.
Waiting Period
20 Days
Florida requires a 20-day waiting period from filing before the divorce can be finalized.
Filing Fees
$400 - $450+
Filing fees vary by county. Fee waivers available for those who qualify financially.
Required Florida Divorce Forms
Form 12.901 - Petition
Petition for Dissolution of Marriage
Form 12.902 - Financial Affidavit
Short or long form based on income
Form 12.995 - Parenting Plan
Required if minor children involved
Form 12.910 - Summons
For service on respondent
Form 12.990 - Final Judgment
Proposed final dissolution order
Types of Divorce in Florida
Simplified Dissolution
- Both spouses agree on all terms
- No minor or dependent children
- Neither spouse seeking alimony
- Limited property/debts to divide
- Both attend final hearing together
- Fastest and most affordable option
Regular Dissolution
- For couples with children or disputes
- Can be contested or uncontested
- Requires formal service of process
- Full discovery may be needed
- Mediation often required
- Trial if no settlement reached
Important Things to Know
Florida follows equitable distribution for property division. In 2023, Florida reformed its alimony laws, eliminating permanent alimony. Parents with minor children must complete a parenting course before divorce is finalized. Florida courts strongly encourage mediation.
Florida-Specific Considerations
- Florida is an equitable distribution state
- 20-day mandatory waiting period
- Simplified dissolution available for qualifying couples
- Parenting course required if children involved
- Alimony laws updated in 2023
Ready to Start Your Florida Divorce?
Splitifi helps you navigate the divorce process with document preparation, expense tracking, and guided support every step of the way.