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How Much Does a Simple Divorce Cost in Florida

Are you wondering about the cost of ending your marriage in Florida without spending much? You’re not alone.

While divorce is never easy emotionally, understanding the financial side can help you plan better and reduce stress during this challenging time.

If you’re considering a divorce on your own or working with an attorney, the costs can vary specifically based on your specific situation.

In this guide, there is a breakdown of the real costs of getting a simple divorce in Florida – from filing fees to attorney rates.

An Approximate Cost of Different Types of Divorce in Florida

Here are some certain types of divorces in Florida that vary from procedure to cost range:

1. Regular Divorce (Cost Range – $1,500 – $3,500)

Both spouses agree to end their marriage
Either spouse must have lived in Florida for 6 months before filing
Requires filing legal papers and appearing in court

2. Simplified Divorce (Cost Range – $1,000 – $2,500)

A faster option is when both spouses fully agree on all terms
No children under 18 from the marriage
The wife is not pregnant at the time of the filing
Both spouses agree on how to split the property
Neither spouse seeks alimony

3. Contested Divorce (Cost Range – $3,000 – $15,000)

When spouses disagree on one or more issues
Requires more time and legal proceedings
May need mediation or court hearings
Judge makes final decisions on disputed matters

4. Uncontested Divorce (Cost Range – $1,500 – $3,500)

Spouses agree on all terms before filing
Includes decisions about property, debts, and children
Usually faster and less expensive
Less stress and conflict than contested divorce

5. Default Divorce (Cost Range – $1,500 – $3,500)

It happens when one spouse doesn’t respond to divorce papers
The court may grant a divorce based on filing spouse’s requests
Other spouse loses right to contest terms
It still requires proof of Florida residency

The Cost of Uncontested and Contested Divorce

An uncontested divorce costs around $400 to $500 for basic court filing fees. If you handle the paperwork yourself, these fees might be your only expense.

Hiring a lawyer for an uncontested divorce typically adds $1,000 to $2,500 to your total cost. The lawyer helps prepare documents, reviews agreements and makes sure everything meets legal requirements.

Some lawyers offer flat-fee packages for uncontested divorces, which can help you budget better.

A contested divorce costs much more, usually starting at $5,000 and potentially reaching $15,000 or higher. These costs grow based on how many issues you and your spouse disagree on.

You’ll pay for court filing fees, lawyer hours, mediation services, and possibly expert witnesses. If your case goes to trial, expect to pay $25,000 or more.

Every court appearance, document filed, and hour spent negotiating adds to your total cost.

The Cost Variables in Divorce Based on Other Cities in Florida

City	Cost with a Lawyer	Cost without a Lawyer
Miami	$2,500 – $3,500	$500 – $1,500
Orlando	$2,000 – $3,000	$400 – $1,200
Tampa	$2,200 – $3,200	$500 – $1,800
Jacksonville	$2,000 – $3,000	$450 – $1,500
Fort Lauderdale	$2,300 – $3,500	$550 – $1,600
St. Petersburg	$2,100 – $3,300	$480 – $1,400

Certain Strategies to Minimize Divorce Cost

Try Mediation First: Mediation can resolve issues without going to court, saving time and costs. It’s a faster, less complex way to settle disagreements.
Get Organized Before Seeing a Lawyer: Gather necessary documents and information beforehand. Being organized will make your meetings with a lawyer more efficient and cost-effective.
Choose Your Battles Wisely: Focus on the most important issues (e.g., child custody, assets) and avoid fighting over minor details that could delay the process.
Consider Limited-Scope Legal Help: Hire a lawyer for specific tasks, like reviewing documents or handling court appearances, rather than full representation. This can lower legal costs.
Look for Fixed-Fee Services: Some lawyers offer fixed fees for uncontested divorces. This provides clarity on costs and prevents unexpected charges.
Use Free and Low-Cost Resources: Utilize online resources, community programs, or self-help kits to guide your divorce process and avoid unnecessary legal fees.
Keep Communication Clear: Be clear and honest with your spouse and your lawyer. Effective communication helps avoid misunderstandings and accelerates the process.

What is the Cost of Divorce with a Child in Florida

Filing for divorce with children in Florida starts with basic court fees of $400 to $500. However, having children in the mix adds several required costs.

You’ll need to complete a parenting class, which costs $30 to $50 per parent. The court requires this class before finalizing your divorce.

If you and your spouse disagree about custody or support, you’ll likely need mediation.

Well, court-ordered mediation costs vary by country but typically range from $60 to $120 per person for each session if your combined income is under $50,000.

For higher incomes, private mediators charge $250 to $300 per hour. Most cases need 2 to 3 sessions to reach agreements.

Conclusion

Getting divorced in Florida doesn’t have to cost you much, especially if you and your spouse can work together.

While costs can vary – from a few hundred dollars for a simple filing to several thousand for more complex cases – understanding your options helps you make smart choices about your divorce.

Remember, saving money now by skipping legal help might cost you more in the long run.

However, many Florida Attorneys offer free first meetings to discuss your case and explain costs upfront.

If you choose to handle things yourself or work with a lawyer, knowing the costs helps you plan for this next chapter of your life.