How Long Does a Fort Lauderdale Divorce Take? How to Speed Up the Process
One of the first questions clients often ask during an initial divorce consultation is, “How long will this take?” Unfortunately, when it comes to divorce in Fort Lauderdale, there is no one-size-fits-all answer.
The timeline for a Florida divorce depends on several factors, including whether the case is contested, how cooperative both spouses are, and how busy the local courts are. That said, there are ways to streamline the process and avoid unnecessary delays. Our experienced Fort Lauderdale divorce lawyer explains average timelines and steps you can take to move your case forward efficiently.
Average Timelines For Fort Lauderdale Divorce And Factors That Impact How Long It Takes
Under the Florida Statutes, the amount of time it takes to get divorced in Fort Lauderdale can range from a few months to well over a year. Factors that are likely to influence the timeline in your particular case include:
- Uncontested vs. contested divorce: An uncontested divorce, which is when both spouses agree on all major issues, can be finalized in as little as 30 days after filing. Contested divorces take longer.
- Children and property: Disputes involving child time-sharing, alimony, or division of complex assets can prolong the process.
- Court backlog: The availability of hearing dates in Broward County Family Court can impact how quickly your case gets scheduled.
- Mandatory waiting periods: While Florida doesn’t require a legal separation period, it does mandate a 20-day waiting period after filing before a final judgment can be entered.
- Discovery and documentation: Delays in exchanging financial information or scheduling mediation can slow progress.
If either party refuses to cooperate, fails to respond to court requests, or unnecessarily drags out proceedings, expect the timeline to extend significantly.
Ways to Speed Up Fort Lauderdale Divorce Proceedings
Ready to move on with your life and want to avoid lengthy legal battles? Fortunately, there are ways to speed up the process of getting a divorce in Fort Lauderdale. To prevent delays, take the following steps:
- Get organized early: Gather financial records, tax returns, bank statements, and debt information before filing and do a complete inventory of all marital property and assets.
- Get legal help: Hiring an experienced Fort Lauderdale divorce lawyer helps prevent mistakes and errors that could cost you both time and money.
- Be realistic: Consider what you want as part of your divorce settlement and what you are willing to negotiate to get it.
- Respond promptly: Don’t ignore calls from your lawyer, legal notices, or court deadlines.
- Consider mediation: Settling disputes through mediation instead of litigation can save time, money, and emotional strain.
To Keep Your Case On Track, Contact Our Experienced Fort Lauderdale Divorce Lawyer
Divorce is never easy, but it doesn’t have to drag on endlessly. At Vanessa L. Prieto Law Offices, our Fort Lauderdale divorce lawyer works closely with clients to avoid delays, resolve disputes quickly, and get the maximum amount in a settlement. To keep your case on track, contact our office and request a consultation today.
Sources:
leg.state.fl.us/STATUTES/index.cfm?App_mode=Display_Statute&URL=0000-0099/0061/Sections/0061.052.html
browardclerk.org/Divisions/Family
