Fort Lauderdale Divorce Timelines And How To Prevent Delays In Getting A Final Order

If you are considering filing for divorce in Fort Lauderdale, chances are you’ve already asked yourself: How long will this take? The truth is, it depends. Some divorces resolve quickly, while others drag on for months or years.

Uncertainty about divorce timelines creates additional stress for couples already living with the tension surrounding a failing marriage. Our experienced Fort Lauderdale divorce attorney explains what to expect and how to prevent delays.

Average Divorce Timelines in Fort Lauderdale

Under the Florida Statutes, there is a 20-day waiting period after filing for a divorce in Fort Lauderdale before a judge can issue a final order. You can get a simplified divorce in as little as 30 days, but this option is only for couples with no children and no property or asset disputes.

The process can take significantly longer for most people, particularly parents, people with high assets or property holdings, and those who don’t see eye to eye with their soon-to-be ex-spouse. Here’s what to expect:

• Uncontested Divorce: If both spouses agree on everything (including child custody, alimony, and property division), the process can take 3 to 4 months.
• Contested Divorce: If there are disagreements on divorce terms, the case may take 6 months to over a year, depending on the complexity and court availability.
• Mediation and Negotiations: This can add weeks to the timeline, but it can help prevent a potentially lengthy divorce trial.
• Trial Scheduling: If the case goes to trial, it’s subject to the court’s calendar, which can delay divorce proceedings for months.

Delays are common when one spouse refuses to cooperate, hides assets, or uses stall tactics. Emotional conflict also adds time, as it makes it harder to resolve issues.

How to Prevent Delays In A Fort Lauderdale Divorce

You can’t control your spouse’s attitude or behavior, but you can take steps on your own to minimize delays and avoid unnecessary stress when you are filing for a divorce through the Broward County Family Court. The key is having a clear legal strategy and working with professionals who can help you stay focused. Take these steps to prevent time-consuming delays:

• Gather all your financial documents early: Income, bank records, debts, and property info should be ready at the start.
• Stay organized: Courts expect timely responses. Missed deadlines mean delays.
• Prioritize negotiating a settlement, when possible: The more you can resolve outside of court, the faster your case will move.
• Consider mediation: It’s often faster than trial and puts you in control of the outcome.
• Get professional legal help: Working with an experienced Fort Lauderdale divorce lawyer can help prevent delays and help ensure the best possible outcome in any settlements.

Contact Our Experienced Fort Lauderdale Divorce Attorney Today

At The Law Office of Sandra Bonfiglio, we represent clients in Broward County divorce cases, guiding them through the process, protecting their rights, and helping them avoid time-consuming delays. To get our experienced Fort Lauderdale divorce attorney on your side, contact our office and request a consultation today.

Sources:

leg.state.fl.us/STATUTES/index.cfm?App_mode=Display_Statute&Search_String=&URL=0000-0099/0061/Sections/0061.052.html

browardclerk.org/Divisions/Family