Can You Get Divorce in Florida Without Going to Court?

Posted on: March 22, 2025
divorce florida

Florida Divorce Without Court: Is It Possible?

You can get divorce in Florida without going to court, but only under certain conditions. It depends on how much both people agree. It also depends on the type of divorce. The process can be simple if there are no fights, no children, and no shared property. But if things are messy, a court appearance may be needed.

Florida allows a type of divorce called a simplified dissolution of marriage. It is the easiest path. But it only works if both people agree on everything. That means no minor children. No alimony. No big arguments. Both must sign the paperwork. Both must agree the marriage cannot be saved. And both must show up once to finalize it, but not for a full trial. It is quick. It is quiet. And it avoids the long court battle many fear.

The next option is an uncontested divorce. This is also peaceful. In this case, both people may have children or property. But they agree on how to divide everything. They agree on custody. They agree on support. If all the papers are signed and correct, the judge may approve the divorce without a hearing. Sometimes, a judge still wants to see one person for a short time. But there is no fight. No courtroom drama. No lawyers battling it out in front of a judge. Just a simple end to a painful chapter.

Think of it like settling a border dispute between two neighbors. If they can draw the line together, there is no need for outside help. But if one builds a fence and the other starts yelling, the matter ends up in court. Divorce works the same way. Agreement keeps things quiet. Disputes make noise.

Most contested divorces do need a court visit. That happens when people cannot agree. It may be about who gets the house. Or when the kids will stay with each parent. Or who pays support. These cases need a judge to make decisions. Lawyers speak. Evidence gets shown. Witnesses talk. It becomes public. And it takes time.

For those who qualify, skipping court can bring peace. It can save money. It can save time. It also keeps the details private. That is a big deal when emotions are raw and privacy matters. Florida courts even offer online options in some counties. This lets people file papers and attend short hearings without walking into a courtroom. Technology has made divorce a little easier, at least for the quiet ones.

Still, mistakes can happen. A missed form. A missed deadline. Wrong language in a settlement. These can slow down or even stop a divorce. That is why getting legal help early matters. Even peaceful endings deserve care and attention. Divorce is still a legal process. It needs the right words. The right steps. The right support.

What Type of Divorce Works Without Court?

Simplified and uncontested divorces are the best bet. They work when both people want the same outcome. They need teamwork. They need honesty. And they need a full agreement on everything. If that is possible, the process moves fast. Court appearances are rare or short.

What If the Divorce Gets Complicated?

When one person disagrees, the process changes. The court steps in. Judges decide. Hearings get set. The case slows down. This is why starting with open talks and strong legal guidance is so important.

Call Kevyn Noonan Hayes, P.A. Today

Want to know if you can get divorce in Florida without going to court? Let us help you figure it out.  Kevyn Noonan Hayes, P.A., guides people through every step with care and strength. Call 239-591-6248 to get the answers you need. You do not have to face this alone. Let’s start with a simple plan.

Posted by: Kevyn Noonan Hayes, P.A.