How Much Does Divorce Cost in Florida?

By Matthew A. Benzion

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Divorce

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Last Modified on Dec 04, 2025

Many individuals who are going through a divorce often ask about the financial costs of separating from their partner. Filing fees, court costs, and legal representation are all factors that contribute to the overall price of divorce. You may find yourself asking, “How much does divorce cost in Florida?” We can explain all of the costs and fees you may have to pay as you proceed.

The attorneys at Benzion Law have years of experience helping Florida families with many different types of family law matters, including divorce. Our team can guide you through the legal issues that often arise when leaving a marriage. Although often contentious, divorce does not have to drain your finances. We are here to help you take the most cost-effective path in your divorce case.

The General Costs of Divorce in Florida

Although divorce filing fees may vary depending on the county in which you reside, the basic cost to file for a dissolution of marriage in Florida is $397.50. The judgment fee is assessed at $10.50. However, if you need to seek legal counsel during a divorce, then the costs will vary depending on the complexity of the divorce case. For example, if assets and other forms of property need to be distributed, then the parties may need to litigate these issues.

Specific Elements Fueling Divorce Costs

The following are some factors that may increase the cost of a divorce proceeding in Florida:

• Division of assets
• Child custody plans
• Alimony
• Forensic accountants
• Real estate appraisers
• Vocational experts
• Mediation

The parties may need their attorneys to scrutinize premarital agreements, real estate contracts, and child custody plans. Contested divorces are often protracted due to the complex legal issues the parties must litigate. Discovery, mediation, and trial may require years of legal work that requires the assistance of law firm support staff, including clerks, legal assistants, and paralegals.

Contested Divorce and Uncontested Divorce

In a contested divorce, the parties may disagree on child custody, child support, property division, or any other aspect. In these cases, the court must intervene to make decisions that are fair to all involved.

Contested divorces are more adversarial than uncontested divorces, and more administrative steps are necessary for the parties to obtain a dissolution of marriage. Contested divorces also tend to take longer to finalize due to the complex legal issues the parties must litigate. This, in turn, drives up the total costs of the divorce.

During an uncontested divorce, the parties mutually agree on all elements of the divorce agreement, such as child custody, alimony, and property division, without having the court intervene to make decisions regarding these matters. Uncontested divorce cases are typically less expensive than contested cases. The lack of court intervention and fewer administrative requirements means uncontested divorces are less costly for both parties.

Why You Should Hire a Divorce Lawyer in Florida

Divorce is not uncommon in Florida. In fact, the overall divorce rate in Florida was 3 per 1,000 people in 2023, meaning many families have to face the financial and emotional elements of ending a marriage. Because the cost of divorce can vary depending on the circumstances, legal counsel can be vital to protecting your interests.

When you hire a divorce lawyer at our firm, we can help you manage your expenses. At Benzion Law, we offer mediation to help couples settle their divorce amicably and in a way that works for both of them. By participating in mediation, the costs of a divorce can be lower due to fewer court hearings and, in some cases, reduced attorney costs.

FAQs

How Much Does It Cost to Get a Divorce if Both Parties Agree in Florida?

If both parties agree on all aspects of a divorce in Florida, the cost of the divorce may be low. In some cases, it is possible for couples going through an uncontested divorce to file the necessary legal forms and pay the judgment fee. However, it is still important to hire a divorce lawyer, as even uncontested cases can quickly become contentious.

What Is the Cheapest Way to Get a Divorce in Florida?

The cheapest way to get a divorce in Florida is to make sure you and your spouse agree on all terms of the divorce agreement. If there are no terms requiring mediation or litigation, the divorce can be settled quickly and for less money. Even when you hire a lawyer, the divorce can still be fairly inexpensive. Legal counsel can ensure the divorce remains uncontested by helping you avoid conflicts.

How Quickly Can I Get a Divorce in Florida?

In Florida, couples can get a divorce in as little as 20 days if all matters are uncontested. Under Florida Statute 61.19, there is a 20-day waiting period before the court can enter a final divorce judgment. In some situations, the court can even enter a final judgment sooner.

How Much Is a Default Divorce in Florida?

Default divorces in Florida are generally inexpensive, especially when compared to a contested divorce. The Clerk of Court fee for the dissolution of marriage is one of the few costs included in a default divorce, but the exact cost depends on the county where the divorce is filed. For divorces in Collier County, the dissolution fee is $408.

Reach Out to a Florida Divorce Attorney Today

Deciding to divorce your partner and move on with your life can be frightening and alarming. However, you do not have to face this decision and all the financial implications alone. By retaining a divorce attorney in Florida, you can ensure that you remain aware of your legal rights and the financial aspects of your divorce.

If you are seeking legal advice regarding a divorce case in Florida, contact Benzion Law today to schedule a consultation. Our team of family law legal professionals can help you overcome the fear and anxiety you may be feeling as you anticipate initiating divorce proceedings. We have years of experience helping clients protect their finances during contested and uncontested divorce cases in Florida.