What Is Simplified Dissolution of Marriage in Florida?
Simplified dissolution is Florida's fastest divorce option. Learn requirements, process, and whether you qualify.
What Is Simplified Dissolution of Marriage in Florida?
Quick Answer: Simplified dissolution is a streamlined divorce for couples who agree on everything, have no minor children, and meet other requirements. It's the fastest way to divorce in Florida—often completed in 30 days or less.
Requirements for Simplified Dissolution
You qualify if ALL of the following are true:
Simplified vs. Regular Dissolution
| Feature | Simplified | Regular |
|---|---|---|
| Children | Not allowed | Allowed |
| Agreement required | Yes, on everything | Not required |
| Alimony | Cannot request | Can request |
| Final hearing | Both must attend together | One may appear |
| Discovery | Waived | Available |
| Appeals | Waived | Available |
| Timeline | 30 days or less | 4-12+ weeks |
The Simplified Dissolution Process
Step 1: Confirm Eligibility
Review requirements above. If you don't qualify, you'll need regular dissolution.
Step 2: Complete Forms
- Petition for Simplified Dissolution of Marriage
- Family Law Financial Affidavit (both spouses)
- Marital Settlement Agreement
- Final Judgment
Step 3: File Together
Both spouses file the petition together at the courthouse.
Cost: Filing fee of $300-$410 depending on county.
Step 4: Attend Hearing Together
Both spouses must appear together before a judge.
The judge will:
- Verify you meet all requirements
- Confirm you understand the agreement
- Ensure everything is voluntary
- Sign the Final Judgment
Step 5: Receive Final Judgment
You're divorced! The judge signs the Final Judgment at the hearing.
Timeline
| Step | Timeline |
|---|---|
| Prepare documents | 1-3 days |
| File with court | Same day |
| Schedule remote hearing | 1-4 weeks |
| Remote hearing (Zoom/Webex/Teams) | 10-15 minutes |
| Total | 1-4 weeks |
Advantages of Simplified Dissolution
- Fastest option: Can be done in under 30 days
- Lowest cost: No attorney required (though recommended)
- Simplest process: Fewer forms and steps
- No court battles: Complete agreement required
- Remote hearing: Attend from home via Zoom/Webex/Teams
- Same-day judgment: Leave the remote hearing divorced
Disadvantages to Consider
- No alimony option: Can't request spousal support
- No appeals: You waive right to appeal
- Must agree on everything: Any disagreement disqualifies you
- Both must attend: Can't send representative
- No discovery: Can't investigate hidden assets
When Simplified Dissolution Isn't Right
Consider regular dissolution if:
- You have minor children
- You want or need alimony
- You can't agree on property division
- You suspect hidden assets
- You want the option to appeal
Get Help With Your Divorce
Even simplified dissolution benefits from professional guidance. Schedule a $125 Strategy Session to confirm your eligibility and ensure your paperwork is correct.
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About the Author
Antonio G. Jimenez, Esq.
Florida Bar #21022 · 20+ Years Experience · LL.M. Trial Advocacy
Antonio is the founder of Divorce.law and creator of Victoria AI, our AI legal intake specialist. A U.S. Navy veteran and former felony prosecutor, he has handled thousands of family law cases across Florida. He built this firm to deliver efficient, transparent legal services using technology he developed himself.
Have questions? Ask Victoria AIFrequently Asked Questions
What is simplified dissolution of marriage in Florida?
Simplified dissolution is Florida's fastest divorce option for couples with no minor children, complete agreement on all issues, and neither spouse seeking alimony. Both spouses file and attend the hearing together, often completing the divorce in 30 days or less.
Who qualifies for simplified dissolution in Florida?
You qualify if: (1) no minor or dependent children and wife isn't pregnant, (2) complete agreement on property/debt division, (3) at least one spouse is a Florida resident for 6+ months, (4) neither spouse seeks alimony, and (5) both waive rights to trial and appeal.
How long does simplified dissolution take in Florida?
Simplified dissolution can be completed in 1-4 weeks. Once you file, you schedule a hearing (usually within 1-4 weeks), and the judge signs your Final Judgment at the hearing. You leave the courthouse divorced.
Can I get alimony with simplified dissolution in Florida?
No. One requirement of simplified dissolution is that neither spouse requests alimony. If either spouse wants or needs spousal support, you must use regular dissolution instead.
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