Divorce is not only an emotional journey—it’s also a financial one. And while every case is different, there are certain cost factors almost every couple faces when pursuing a divorce in Florida.
We want to clarify these factors to help you make informed decisions and plan for the future.
Filing for Divorce: Court Costs and Administrative Fees
Getting divorced starts with filing paperwork with the court, which carries its own base costs. As of 2024, the average filing fee to initiate a divorce (also known as a Petition for Dissolution of Marriage) is approximately $408, according to county clerk fee schedules across the state.
There’s also a required summons fee—generally around $10—and service of process fees, which vary depending on how and where your spouse is served. If a sheriff serves the papers, expect to pay an additional $40–$60. Using a private process server might cost closer to $75–$100.
Sometimes, couples qualify for a waiver of court filing fees based on financial hardship, but the court must approve this. You must submit a civil indigency application with supporting documentation to request the waiver.
Attorney Fees: Your Most Significant Cost
Attorney fees typically make up the most significant portion of divorce expenses. As a divorce law firm in Florida, we understand why. Legal representation isn’t just about filling out paperwork—it’s about strategy, negotiation, advocacy, and protecting your rights.
So, how much does a Florida divorce lawyer cost? Most attorneys charge by the hour. In Florida, divorce attorneys typically bill between $260 and $330 per hour. That rate can go higher depending on the attorney’s experience and the case’s complexity. Some firms also offer flat-rate pricing for uncontested divorces, which generally ranges from $2,500 to $5,000.
A 2019 Martindale-Nolo survey found that the average total cost for divorce in Florida was around $13,500 when children and property division were involved. That number dropped to about $5,000 for uncontested divorces without major disputes. Of course, every case is different, and your actual costs may vary based on a number of factors.
Uncontested vs. Contested Divorce: A Big Cost Difference
Not all divorces are created equal—especially when it comes to costs.
In an uncontested divorce, both parties agree on key issues such as child custody, property division, and spousal support. Because there are fewer disputes, these cases move more quickly and don’t require as much legal back-and-forth. With our help, many clients complete uncontested divorces for $2,500–$5,000, including filing fees and attorney involvement.
On the other hand, a contested divorce—where the parties disagree on one or more issues—can become far more expensive. These cases may require multiple hearings, extensive discovery, mediation, and even trial. A contested divorce in Florida can easily cost between $10,000 and $25,000 or more depending on how long the disputes drag on and how complex the issues are.
What Makes a Divorce More Expensive?
Several factors can increase the cost of divorce in Florida. Here are the most common ones we see at our firm:
1. Child Custody and Child Support
Disputes over time-sharing, parental responsibility, and child support can significantly extend the divorce timeline. You may need to involve guardian ad litems, parenting coordinators, or even child psychologists. Additionally, Florida law requires parents to complete a parenting course before the divorce is finalized—this typically costs around $30 to $50 per person.
2. Alimony (Spousal Support)
3. Property Division
Florida is an equitable distribution state, meaning the court aims to divide marital assets and debts fairly, though not always equally. This includes real estate, retirement accounts, personal property, vehicles, businesses, and more. Complex property cases often require real estate appraisals, business valuations, and forensic accountants—all of which add to the final price tag.
4. Discovery and Evidence Gathering
If your divorce involves accusations of hidden assets, financial misconduct, or parenting concerns, discovery will play a significant role. Discovery includes subpoenas, depositions, interrogatories, and document requests. Each of these tools adds time and attorney labor, increasing the cost.
5. Mediation and Settlement Conferences
Florida law requires most contested divorce cases to go through mediation before trial. While mediation can help avoid trial and reduce long-term costs, it still has its price. Mediators usually charge $150–$300 per hour (shared by both parties). The cost can add up quickly if you go through multiple mediation sessions.
6. Trial
If you and your spouse cannot agree, your case may go to trial. Trial preparation alone involves significant attorney time reviewing documents, preparing witnesses, drafting arguments, and attending hearings. Trials often add several thousand dollars in additional fees.
Additional Costs Many People Overlook
In addition to attorney fees and court costs, divorcing spouses in Florida may encounter several hidden or overlooked expenses:
- Expert witnesses: These might include appraisers, vocational experts, mental health professionals, and forensic accountants.
- Temporary support orders: If you request temporary alimony or child support while your case is pending, you may have to pay for additional hearings and documentation.
- Moving expenses: One or both spouses may need to relocate, incurring moving and housing costs.
- Health insurance changes: Divorce may affect your coverage, especially if you were on your spouse’s employer-provided plan.
- Name change fees: If you wish to restore your former name after the divorce, you may need to pay court processing fees.
Simplified Dissolution of Marriage: Is It Right for You?
Florida offers a simplified dissolution process for couples who:
- Have no minor or dependent children
- Agree on the division of assets and debts
- Waive alimony
- Are both willing to appear at the final hearing
This streamlined process saves time and money. The filing fee is still around $408, but you’ll likely save on attorney fees since the paperwork is straightforward. We still recommend speaking with a Florida divorce lawyer to ensure your rights are protected, even in a simplified case.
How We Help Clients Manage Divorce Costs
At Griffin Family Law, financial stress can make divorce even more difficult. That’s why we focus on delivering legal services that are efficient, transparent, and tailored to your budget. Here’s how we help our clients manage costs:
- Initial consultations: We offer consultations to discuss your case and recommend the most cost-effective path forward.
- Fee transparency: We clearly explain our billing process and estimate costs before you commit.
- Flat-fee options: We offer flat-rate pricing for uncontested cases so you can confidently budget.
- Efficiency: We don’t waste time. We move your case forward quickly and avoid unnecessary litigation whenever possible.
- Strategic negotiation: Our approach to divorce is resolution-focused. We work to resolve disputes without escalating them, saving you time and money.
How Much Should You Budget for a Divorce in Florida?
- Uncontested divorce (no kids or disputes): $500–$5,000
- Contested divorce (mild disputes): $5,000–$15,000
- Contested divorce (complex/high-conflict): $15,000–$30,000+
These ranges are not set in stone but can serve as a guideline when planning your next steps.
Are You Getting Divorced in Florida?
Divorce is not just a legal event—it’s a financial turning point. Understanding the cost of getting divorced in Florida can help you prepare, make informed decisions, and minimize surprises. Whether your divorce is amicable or contentious, having the right legal team can make all the difference.
At Griffin Family Law, we’re committed to helping you get through this process with clarity, confidence, and control over your future. If you’re considering divorce and want to understand your financial options better, reach out to us today. Please keep in mind the numbers and information here are examples and no guarantees are made. Each case is unique and we are here to help you understand your rights and options.
Let us help you navigate the cost—and the process of divorce in Florida.
