Divorce in Florida
Florida is a no-fault divorce state where the only ground for dissolution is that the marriage is irretrievably broken. The state uses equitable distribution for property division and requires at least one spouse to have been a Florida resident for six months before filing.
Quick Facts
Residency Requirement
6 months residency required
Waiting Period
20 days after filing
Filing Fee
$400-$500
Property Division
equitable distribution
Grounds for Divorce
- •Irretrievable breakdown of the marriage
- •Mental incapacity
Key Facts
- ★Florida is a no-fault divorce state with no separation requirement
- ★A mandatory 20-day waiting period applies after filing
- ★Property is divided by equitable distribution
- ★Florida does not have permanent alimony for most cases after 2023 reform
- ★Both spouses must complete a parenting course if children are involved
Child Custody
Florida uses the terms 'time-sharing' and 'parental responsibility' instead of custody and visitation. The court encourages shared parental responsibility and determines time-sharing schedules based on the best interests of the child.
Alimony / Spousal Support
Florida reformed its alimony laws in 2023, eliminating permanent alimony. The state now offers bridge-the-gap, rehabilitative, and durational alimony. The amount and duration depend on the length of the marriage and each party's financial circumstances.
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Common questions about divorce in Florida
No. Florida eliminated permanent alimony in 2023 with its alimony reform law. The state now provides bridge-the-gap alimony (up to 2 years), rehabilitative alimony, and durational alimony (capped based on marriage length).
Florida eliminated the terms 'custody' and 'visitation' in favor of 'parental responsibility' and 'time-sharing.' Shared parental responsibility means both parents participate in major decisions, and a time-sharing schedule determines when the child is with each parent.