Divorce in 15 Minutes: The Crash Course
No jargon. No fluff. Here’s the divorce process boiled down so you can make your next move without second-guessing everything.
Step 1 — Figure Out Your Track
- Uncontested: You both agree on money, property, and parenting. Fastest path; some places finalize without a hearing.
- By Summons (contested or no signatures): One files, the other is formally served; timelines vary.
- By Publication: Can’t find your spouse after a good-faith search? You may publish legal notice instead of personal service.
Step 2 — Papers, Signatures, Service
Every track needs forms done right. Uncontested often means both sign; summons requires service by a process server; publication follows a documented search + newspaper notice.
Step 3 — Waiting & What Actually Delays Cases
- Missing forms or errors
- Service problems or address issues
- Court backlog and judge availability
- Parenting classes or evaluations (when required)
Step 4 — Timelines (Ballpark)
- Uncontested, no hearing: weeks not months in many places
- By Publication: often around a few months (publication + court queue)
- By Summons: months (discovery, mediation, hearings)
Step 5 — Smart Moves That Save Time
- Use a shared checklist; submit complete packets
- Respond quickly to clerk or court requests
- Keep communication short, written, and specific
- Take required classes early
FAQ
Do I need a lawyer?
Not always, but legal advice is valuable if you have disagreements, safety concerns, or complex assets.
Do I have to go to court?
Some uncontested cases finalize without a hearing. Others require short hearings; it depends on local rules and your case type.
Information only, not legal advice. For legal questions, talk to a licensed attorney in your state.
Resources:
Quickest way to get divorced in Florida