How to prepare a regular Florida dissolution case.
This overview focuses on regular dissolution. Simplified dissolution is a joint procedure with a separate petition and strict eligibility conditions.
Source record reviewed: 2026-11-03 · Page updated: 2026-11-03 · Not attorney-certified legal advice
- 01
Confirm six-month Florida residence
At least one spouse must satisfy the statutory residence period immediately before filing. Record actual dates and choose acceptable corroborating evidence.
- 02
Verify the proper circuit and county
Do not assume either spouse’s current county is automatically correct. Review venue, the clerk’s family division, local filing instructions and e-filing requirements.
- 03
Select the correct petition variant
Use 12.901(b)(1), (b)(2) or (b)(3) based on dependent or minor children and property or debts. Read the current instructions before choosing.
- 04
Prepare supporting information
Gather legal names, marriage and separation facts, requested relief, residence evidence, finances, assets, debts, support facts and any child-related history.
- 05
File, pay or request indigent status
The clerk assigns the case number. Filing fees vary by county; eligible filers may request a determination of civil indigent status.
- 06
Complete valid notice
Use the service method required for the procedure and record only facts that actually occurred. Response and default steps depend on proper notice.
- 07
Complete financial disclosure
Use the appropriate current financial affidavit and mandatory-disclosure procedure. A settlement or no-property claim does not automatically remove every disclosure obligation.
- 08
Complete child requirements where applicable
The UCCJEA affidavit, parenting plan, child-support worksheet and parenting course may apply. Verify local and case-specific requirements.
- 09
Resolve terms or prepare for a court decision
File the correct agreement and proposed orders if resolved. Disputed property, support or parenting issues may require mediation or hearing.
- 10
Attend the final proceeding and obtain judgment
Follow the circuit’s scheduling procedure and review the entered final judgment. A minimum waiting period is not an automatic divorce.
Verify with the official source
Rules, forms, fees and local procedures can change. These links are the controlling starting points; the explanations on this site are preparation guidance, not a substitute for the current source.
- Florida Courts — View all family law forms ↗Official source
- Florida Courts Help — Divorce forms FAQ ↗Official source
- Florida Statutes — Chapter 61 ↗Official source