Thinking about divorce is never easy. You may be feeling sadness, fear, or even relief at the thought of moving forward. On top of these emotions, trying to understand how divorce works in Florida can feel overwhelming. The truth is that there is no single path to divorce. Florida law provides different options depending on your situation.
Knowing the differences can help you feel more prepared and less uncertain about what lies ahead.
Simplified Dissolution of Marriage
Florida allows some couples to use a simplified process, called a simplified dissolution of marriage. This option is usually faster and less complicated than other divorces, but it is only available if certain conditions are met. You may qualify if:
- You and your spouse agree the marriage cannot be saved
- You have no children under 18 and are not expecting a child
- Neither spouse is asking for alimony
- You both agree on how to divide property and debts
This type of divorce requires complete agreement. If even one issue is disputed, you cannot use the simplified process.
Uncontested Divorce
An uncontested divorce is available when both spouses agree on all issues, including how to divide property, whether alimony will be paid, and if children are involved, parenting time and child support.
This type of divorce can save time, money, and stress. It requires cooperation, but it often allows couples to move forward with less conflict.
Contested Divorce
If you and your spouse cannot agree on one or more issues, the divorce is considered contested. In these cases, a judge makes the final decisions about things like property, alimony, child support, or custody.
Contested divorces can take longer and may be more stressful, but sometimes they are necessary to ensure fairness when agreement is not possible.
Collaborative Divorce
Florida also recognizes collaborative divorce. This process allows both spouses to work together with the support of attorneys, financial experts, or counselors to resolve issues outside of court.
Collaborative divorce can be less stressful than litigation and can help preserve healthier relationships, which may be especially important if children are involved.
Choosing the Right Path for Your Family
The right type of divorce depends on your circumstances, your finances, and your ability to agree with your spouse. Some couples are able to cooperate and resolve everything peacefully. Others need the court’s help to reach a fair outcome. No matter what your situation is, you do not have to face these decisions on your own.
Why Having the Right Attorney Matters
Even when divorce seems simple, the process can quickly become complicated. Divorce is not just about ending a marriage. It is about protecting your children, your finances, and your future. Having a lawyer you trust means you have someone to explain your rights, guide you through the process, and stand by you when things feel overwhelming.
At the Law Offices of E.F. Robinson, we have vast experience helping families through all types of divorce in Florida. Our lead attorney, Veronica Robinson, Esq., has spent 30 years guiding clients through uncontested, contested, simplified, and collaborative divorces. With compassion and strong legal advocacy, our office is committed to protecting your future and helping you move forward with confidence.
This article is for general informational purposes only. If you need advice about your specific circumstances, consult with a qualified family law attorney in Florida.
