If you are facing a divorce in Florida, understanding the costs upfront helps you plan effectively. Florida court filing fees are approximately $409 in most counties — one of the higher filing fees in the United States. However an uncontested DIY divorce can often be completed for under $500 total. This guide breaks down every cost you can expect.
Florida divorce costs at a glance
| Type of divorce | Estimated cost |
|---|---|
| Uncontested DIY (no lawyer) | $409–$500 |
| Uncontested with attorney | $2,500–$6,000 |
| Contested with attorney | $15,000–$50,000+ |
| Online divorce service | $150–$500 |
Florida court filing fees
The filing fee for a Petition for Dissolution of Marriage in Florida is approximately $409 in most counties. Fees vary slightly by county — here are the most populated:
- Miami-Dade County: ~$409
- Broward County (Fort Lauderdale): ~$409
- Palm Beach County: ~$409
- Hillsborough County (Tampa): ~$409
- Orange County (Orlando): ~$409
What makes Florida divorce costs go up?
- Disputes over child custody or parenting plan
- Disagreements about property division
- Alimony disputes — Florida recently reformed its alimony laws
- Business ownership or complex retirement accounts
- A spouse who refuses to cooperate or cannot be located
- Mediation requirements — Florida requires mediation in most contested cases
Can you get divorced in Florida without a lawyer?
Yes. Florida calls this a Simplified Dissolution of Marriage — available when both spouses agree on all issues, have no minor children, and neither spouse is seeking alimony. For couples who do not qualify for the simplified process, a regular uncontested divorce without a lawyer is also possible. Florida has free forms available at flcourts.gov.
→ How to File for Divorce in Florida Without a Lawyer — Full Guide
Florida Simplified Dissolution of Marriage
Florida’s Simplified Dissolution is the fastest and cheapest divorce option. You qualify if:
- Both spouses agree on all terms
- There are no minor or dependent children
- Neither spouse is pregnant
- Neither spouse is seeking alimony
- Both spouses appear at the final hearing together
The filing fee is the same $409 but the process is faster and simpler than a regular dissolution.
Free and low-cost divorce options in Florida
- Florida Courts self-help forms — free at flcourts.gov
- Florida Law Help — free legal information at floridалаwhelporg
- Legal Aid organizations — each county has a legal aid office for qualifying low-income residents
- Online divorce services ($150–$500) — prepare paperwork but do not provide legal advice
How long does a divorce take in Florida?
For a Simplified Dissolution in Florida, the process can be completed in as little as 4–6 weeks. For a regular uncontested dissolution, most cases are finalized in 3–6 months. Contested divorces typically take 12–24 months or longer.
Frequently asked questions — Florida divorce cost
What is the cheapest way to get divorced in Florida?
The cheapest way to get divorced in Florida is to file a Simplified Dissolution of Marriage yourself using the free forms from flcourts.gov. Your only cost is the court filing fee of approximately $409 — typically under $500 total.
How much does a divorce lawyer cost in Florida?
Attorneys in Florida typically charge $250–$450 per hour. For an uncontested divorce, flat-fee packages typically range from $2,500 to $6,000. For a contested divorce, total attorney fees typically range from $15,000 to $50,000 or more — especially in high-cost areas like Miami and Palm Beach.
Can I get a fee waiver for the Florida divorce filing fee?
Yes. If you cannot afford the filing fee, you can file an Application for Determination of Civil Indigent Status with the clerk’s office. If your income qualifies, the court may waive the filing fee entirely.
Does Florida require mediation for divorce?
Florida requires mediation for most contested divorces before the case can go to trial. Mediation typically costs $100–$300 per hour split between both spouses. For uncontested divorces where both spouses already agree, mediation is not required.
Does Florida require a waiting period before divorce?
Florida does not have a mandatory waiting period for divorce. However the court process itself typically takes several weeks to months depending on the county’s scheduling and the complexity of the case.
More Florida divorce resources
- How to File for Divorce in Florida Without a Lawyer
- How Much Does a Divorce Cost in Virginia?
- How Much Does a Divorce Cost in Colorado?
- How Much Does a Divorce Cost in Texas?
- How Much Does a Divorce Cost in North Carolina?
- How Much Does a Divorce Cost in Georgia?
- How Much Does a Divorce Cost in Washington State?
Legal disclaimer
The information on this page is for general educational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Divorce costs in Florida vary by county and individual circumstances. If your divorce involves significant assets, children, or disputes, consider consulting a licensed attorney in Florida.