Florida divorce costs depend on whether the dissolution of marriage is simplified (agreed-upon) or contested.
The filing fee for a divorce petition in Florida is approximately $408 in most counties as of 2026, per the Florida Courts system.
An uncontested divorce with no minor children and limited assets can be completed for $500 to $1,500 total.
Contested divorces with children, alimony disputes, or complex property division can cost $10,000 to $50,000 or more per spouse depending on the duration and complexity of litigation.
Florida's high population and warm climate also make it one of the most litigated divorce states in the country — see the divorce attorney fees guide for what full litigation typically costs per party.
Florida Divorce Filing Fees
Filing for divorce (Petition for Dissolution of Marriage) in Florida typically costs approximately $408 in most counties, though fees vary slightly by circuit. Fee waivers are available for indigent filers. The clerk of court in each county sets the exact fee schedule.
Response filing by the other spouse typically costs approximately $300 to $400. For a full picture of how filing fees interact with attorney costs, the divorce attorney fees guide explains retainer structures and hourly billing in litigated Florida cases.
Simplified Dissolution of Marriage
Florida offers a simplified dissolution procedure for couples who: have no minor children, are not pregnant, agree on the division of all marital assets and debts, both waive any right to alimony, and have both completed mandatory financial disclosure.
A simplified dissolution can be filed jointly and typically costs $500 to $1,500 total including filing fees and minimal document preparation.
For couples who qualify, the general uncontested divorce cost guide covers online document services and other low-cost preparation options available nationwide.
Spouses who complete a Florida simplified divorce should also review alimony tax deductibility rules even when waiving alimony, to understand how waiver affects their tax situation.
Contested Divorce Costs
Contested divorces in Florida involve attorney fees of $250 to $500 per hour. Complex cases involving custody, alimony disputes, or businesses and investment accounts require more attorney time. Mediation (mandatory before most Florida divorce trials) costs $100 to $300 per hour per party.
A contested Florida divorce lasting 12 to 18 months might cost $15,000 to $50,000 per party.
For comparison, contested divorces in California and Texas carry similar costs — review the divorce cost in California and divorce cost in Texas guides to see how Florida's process compares.
Understanding child support tax implications is particularly important in Florida contested divorces involving minor children.
Florida Equitable Distribution
Florida divides marital assets and debts equitably (fairly) rather than equally, meaning the 50/50 split is a starting point but courts may deviate based on factors like the contribution of each spouse, economic circumstances, and duration of the marriage.
Florida eliminated no-fault divorce but requires dissolution to be based on irretrievable breakdown of the marriage.
Real property often requires a home appraisal cost to establish fair market value during the equitable distribution process — particularly important in Florida's active real estate market.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost to file for divorce in Florida?
Filing fees are approximately $408 in most Florida counties. Total costs for a simplified, uncontested divorce can be as low as $500 to $1,500. See the uncontested divorce cost guide for low-cost preparation options.
How long does a divorce take in Florida?
Florida has a 20-day waiting period minimum. Simplified uncontested divorces can be completed in 1 to 3 months. Contested divorces typically take 6 to 18 months or longer.
Compare this to Texas's 60-day waiting period in the divorce cost in Texas guide.
Is mediation required in Florida divorces?
Yes. Most Florida circuits require mandatory mediation before a contested divorce case proceeds to trial, which can help resolve disputes and reduce costs.
Can I file for divorce in Florida without a lawyer?
Yes. Florida allows self-represented parties. The Florida Courts website provides self-help forms and instructions.
Legal counsel is advisable for complex estates or custody disputes. For a structured overview of the DIY divorce process, see the uncontested divorce cost guide.
Does Florida have alimony?
Yes. Florida law provides for various types of alimony including bridge-the-gap, rehabilitative, durational, and permanent alimony. Permanent alimony was restricted under recent Florida legislation (2023).
Consult a Florida family law attorney for current rules. Alimony recipients and payers should both review alimony tax deductibility rules, and those receiving post-divorce support should understand savings benchmarks to plan for financial independence.
Sources & References
- Florida Courts — Dissolution of Marriage Self-Help — https://www.flcourts.gov/Resources-Services/Court-Improvement/Family-Courts/Dissolution-of-Marriage
- The Florida Bar — Divorce in Florida — https://www.floridabar.org/public/consumer/pamphlet021/
- Florida Legislature — Family Law Statutes — http://www.leg.state.fl.us/statutes/index.cfm?App_mode=Display_Index&Title_Request=VI
Last updated: April 27, 2026