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Florida family lawDemo1 min read

Do I qualify for an uncontested divorce in Florida?

Not every divorce can be handled through the simplified uncontested process. Here is how to know whether your situation fits — and what to do if it does not.

An uncontested divorce is one where both spouses agree on every major issue: property division, debt allocation, and — if children are involved — custody and support arrangements. If any of these issues are disputed, the process becomes contested and typically requires an attorney.

The basic requirements

Florida requires that at least one spouse has lived in the state for at least six months before filing. The marriage must also be "irretrievably broken" — Florida is a no-fault divorce state, meaning you do not need to prove wrongdoing.

Both spouses must agree on how to divide assets and debts. If the division is disputed, the case is no longer uncontested.

Situations that typically disqualify a case

If there are allegations of domestic violence or a history of abuse, self-help tools are not appropriate. You should speak with a licensed Florida attorney or contact a local domestic violence resource.

Significant assets — such as real estate, a business, retirement accounts, or complex investments — usually require professional legal guidance to divide correctly. Similarly, contested child custody arrangements require court involvement beyond the simplified process.

When to consult an attorney

Even in cases that appear straightforward, it can be worth speaking with a Florida family law attorney for a one-time consultation. An attorney can review your specific facts and flag issues you may not have considered.

Docketfy starts every user with a free case check. If your answers suggest your situation may not be suitable for self-help tools, we will tell you clearly and recommend speaking with a licensed Florida attorney before moving forward.