Jacksonville Uncontested Divorce Lawyers
Experienced Divorce Attorneys Can Help With Your Uncontested Divorce
An uncontested divorce happens when both spouses agree on all major issues, including property division, child support, and alimony. It’s a faster, less expensive alternative to a contested divorce and avoids prolonged court battles.
The process typically includes filing a petition, signing a Marital Settlement Agreement, and attending a brief final hearing.
Sasso Guerrero & Henderlite can guide you through each step to ensure your rights are protected and everything is handled correctly.
If you have questions about uncontested divorce, call (904) 619-1386 to set up an appointment with our expert Jacksonville divorce lawyers at any of our three Jacksonville offices for guidance.
What Is Uncontested Divorce?
An uncontested divorce is a legal process where both spouses agree on all terms of the divorce before filing with the court.
This includes decisions about property division, child custody, child support, alimony, and any other relevant issues. Because there are no disputes for a judge to decide, the process is often more efficient and less emotionally taxing.
The agreement is finalized in a written Marital Settlement Agreement, which is submitted to the court for approval.
Simpler and Faster Than Litigation
Uncontested divorces avoid courtroom battles and typically require only one short final hearing. With fewer legal hurdles and no drawn-out disputes, most uncontested divorces in Florida are completed in a matter of weeks – not months.
Who Can Get an Uncontested Divorce in Florida?
To qualify for an uncontested divorce in Florida, both spouses must agree on every aspect of the divorce and meet specific legal requirements. This includes where you live, why you’re divorcing, and whether your situation qualifies for a simplified process.
- At least one spouse must have lived in Florida for the past six months before filing.
- Florida is a no-fault divorce state. Most uncontested divorces are based on the marriage being irretrievably broken.
Couples with no minor children and no request for alimony may be eligible for a Simplified Dissolution of Marriage.
If there are children or financial support issues, you can still proceed with a regular uncontested divorce as long as all terms are agreed upon.
The Uncontested Divorce Process in Jacksonville
Filing for an uncontested divorce in Jacksonville involves several key steps. While the process is more streamlined than a contested divorce, attention to detail is still critical to avoid delays.
Step 1: Prepare and File Petition
Begin by completing the Petition for Dissolution of Marriage and related forms. File these with the Clerk of Court in Duval County or the appropriate local jurisdiction if you live in St. Johns, Clay, or Nassau Counties.
Step 2: Marital Settlement Agreement
Draft a Marital Settlement Agreement that outlines your decisions on property division, spousal support, and time-sharing if applicable. This agreement must be signed by both parties.
Our Jacksonville divorce lawyers will provide you with examples and help you draft this settlement agreement.
Step 3: Parenting Plan
If you have minor children, Florida requires a detailed Parenting Plan and a mandatory Parenting Course for each parent. The plan should include holiday schedules, exchanges, and other time-sharing details.
Step 4: File Documents with Court
Submit your signed documents and pay the filing fee, which is usually around $400. The Clerk will process and file your case.
Step 5: Final Hearing
After a mandatory 20-day waiting period, you’ll attend a short final hearing. Most cases in Jacksonville are finalized within 4-6 weeks after filing.
Why Trust Sasso Guerrero & Henderlite to Help With Your Uncontested Divorce
Our attorneys have years of experience handling family law matters in Jacksonville and are deeply familiar with the local courts, judges, and filing procedures. We help clients move through the process efficiently and avoid unnecessary delays.
Sasso Guerrero & Henderlite is the only firm in Jacksonville with three board-certified experts in marital and family law. That certification means your case gets the focused, high-level attention it deserves.
Call our office today to schedule a confidential consultation about your uncontested divorce and we’ll help you throughout your case.
How Much Does Uncontested Divorce Cost in Jacksonville?
Most uncontested divorces in Jacksonville cost between $2,000 and $3,000 when handled by an attorney. This flat rate typically includes document preparation, filing, and court representation.
In addition, there is a mandatory $414 court filing fee paid to the Clerk of Court.
How Long Does Uncontested Divorce Take?
Once filed, an uncontested divorce in Florida usually takes between 30 to 60 days to finalize. The timeline depends on how quickly documents are completed and how soon a final hearing can be scheduled.
Delays can happen due to court backlogs or missing paperwork, but most cases move quickly when prepared by a family lawyer.
What Issues You Need to Resolve Before Filing
Before filing for an uncontested divorce in Florida, both spouses must agree on all major issues. This ensures the court can finalize the case without conflict or delay. A complete and signed agreement is required at the time of filing.
Property & Debt Division
Florida follows equitable distribution, meaning assets and debts are divided fairly – not always 50/50.
Spousal Support
Alimony must be negotiated or waived in writing. The court will review the agreement to confirm it’s voluntary and reasonable.
Child Support & Custody
If children are involved, you must agree on a Parenting Plan and calculate child support using state guidelines. The judge must approve both to ensure they meet legal standards.
Why Hire a Lawyer for Uncontested Divorce?
Even if you and your spouse agree on everything, hiring an attorney can save time, prevent mistakes, and protect your rights. A Jacksonville divorce lawyer ensures your uncontested case is filed correctly and processed efficiently.
Avoid Costly Errors
Court forms must be filled out accurately. Missing details or incomplete paperwork can delay your case or cause it to be rejected.
Legal Oversight
A family law attorney reviews your Marital Settlement Agreement to confirm it’s fair, enforceable, and meets state requirements.
Faster Resolutions
Lawyers know the process and can help avoid common issues that slow things down – keeping your case moving forward.
Flexibility in Legal Help
You don’t always need full representation. Our attorneys offer consult-only, document review, or flat-fee services for uncontested divorce, so you get exactly the help you need.
Is Uncontested Divorce Right for You?
An uncontested divorce can be a smart option if you and your spouse are on the same page and want a low-conflict resolution. It’s quicker, more affordable, and less stressful than traditional divorce.
Good Fit If…
- You and your spouse agree on property division, support, and child-related issues.
- You’re looking for a faster, budget-friendly way to move forward.
Not Ideal If…
- There’s a power imbalance, lack of trust, or one spouse is unwilling to compromise.
- There is a history of domestic violence or intimidation that could affect the fairness of the agreement.
FAQ About Uncontested Divorce in Jacksonville
What’s the difference between contested and uncontested divorce?
An uncontested divorce means both spouses agree on all terms—property, support, and parenting. A contested divorce involves disagreements that require court hearings or a judge’s decision.
Can I file without an attorney?
Yes, but it’s not recommended. Filing on your own increases the risk of mistakes, delays, or rejected paperwork. A lawyer helps ensure everything is correct and enforceable.
How long does it take?
Most uncontested divorces are finalized in 30 to 60 days, depending on the court’s schedule and how quickly documents are completed.
Can we file if we have kids?
Yes. You’ll need a court-approved Parenting Plan that outlines time-sharing and child support using Florida guidelines.
What if one spouse changes their mind?
If either spouse withdraws agreement, the divorce becomes contested, and a different legal process applies.
What is the simplified dissolution of marriage?
This option is only available if there are no children, no alimony, and both parties agree to waive certain rights. It’s faster but more limited in use.
Speak with a Jacksonville Divorce Lawyer Today
If you and your spouse agree on the terms, an uncontested divorce may be your fastest, least stressful option. It can save you time, money, and unnecessary conflict – while still protecting your rights.
Call Sasso Guerrero & Henderlite to schedule your confidential consultation. Our experienced Jacksonville divorce lawyers will walk you through the process and help you move forward with confidence.