How Long Will My Fort Lauderdale Divorce Take?

When meeting with our Fort Lauderdale divorce attorney for an initial consultation, one of the first questions people often ask is, “How long will my divorce take?” The answer depends on several factors, including the complexity of your case, the level of conflict, and how cooperative each party is.

In Broward County and throughout Florida, the divorce timeline can range from a few months to well over a year. Find out common factors that affect the process and how to avoid unnecessary delays.

Factors That Impact the Timeline of Your Fort Lauderdale Divorce

Florida law dictates the divorce process, but the exact timing varies depending on the case. Under Section 61.052 of the Florida Statutes § 61.052, there is no formal waiting period for divorce beyond a six-month residency requirement. However, most cases involve procedural steps that can take time to complete. Common factors that impact how long it takes to get a final divorce order include:

• Contested vs. Uncontested Divorce: An uncontested divorce, where both parties agree on all issues, can often be finalized in as little as four to six weeks. A contested divorce involving disagreements over property, custody, or support may take several months or longer.
• Court Backlogs in Broward County: Like many areas, Fort Lauderdale courts have experienced delays due to increased caseloads. Hearings and trial dates may be several weeks or even months out.
• Mandatory Disclosures and Mediation: Florida Family Law Rules of Procedure require both spouses to exchange financial documents and attend mediation in most contested cases, adding time to the process.
• Complex Issues or High-Conflict Dynamics: Cases involving business owners, hidden assets, high-conflict custody battles, or domestic violence usually take longer to resolve due to the need for additional investigation or court involvement.

How to Keep the Fort Lauderdale Divorce Process Moving

While some delays are out of your control, there are steps you can take to keep your Fort Lauderdale divorce on track and reduce the timeline. Working with a knowledgeable attorney can significantly affect how efficiently your case moves through the system. Tips to streamline the process include:

• Be Organized: Gather financial records, tax returns, and any agreements early. Respond immediately to any requests from your attorney or the court.
• Choose Your Battles Wisely: Focus on what truly matters. Fighting over minor details can add months of stress and expense.
• Attend Mediation in Good Faith: Divorce mediation works, but be prepared to compromise to avoid prolonged litigation.
• Avoid Court Rule Violations: Missing deadlines or failing to comply with mandatory disclosures can cause delays and even result in penalties.
• Consider Counseling or Support: Emotional support can help reduce conflict, which often accelerates resolution.

To Streamline The Divorce Process, Contact Our Experienced Fort Lauderdale Divorce Attorney

Whether you’re hoping for a quick resolution or bracing for a more complex divorce, timing matters. At The Law Office of Sandra Bonfiglio, we streamline the process while fighting for the best possible results. To protect your rights, contact our office. Schedule an initial consultation today with our experienced Fort Lauderdale divorce attorney.

Sources:

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

supremecourt.flcourts.gov/content/download/345287/file/01-2344_rule.pdf