Simplified Divorces

A simplified divorce is an inexpensive way of ending a marriage.

Requirements

In order to file a simplified divorce both parties must meet the following requirements:

There can be no minor or dependent children born from the marriage nor can the wife be pregnant
If there is property, division of property has been agreed to and a written property division agreement must be filed with the court at the time of initial appearance
You cannot have any unresolved financial obligations
One of the parties must be a Florida resident for at least six months prior to the date of filing and your residency must be corroborated by a witness
Both parties will be required to complete a marital settlement agreement

If you and your spouse do not meet all the requirements, you will not be able to proceed with a simplified divorce.

Filing the petition

To file a petition for a simplified divorce, both parties must appear together in person at the  Lawson E. Thomas Courthouse Center. Both parties must present a valid Florida photo identification with a signature.

You may bring a witness with you at the time of filing or file a notarized certificate of corroborating witness. The witness must also present a valid Florida photo identification such as a Florida driver license or a Florida identification card at the time of appearance.

The final hearing date is approximately 30 days after the filing date.

Legal Representation

If you are not represented by an attorney, you may benefit from the  Self-Help Project. For a fee, the Self-Help Project provides packets containing all forms necessary for divorce and other family court matters.

Dissolution of marriage - $409

Payment is accepted in cash, cashier's check, money order, Visa, Discover, MasterCard or American Express and is non-refundable. Personal checks are not accepted.