How Much Does a Divorce Cost in Florida?

How Much Does a Divorce Cost in Florida?

One of the first questions people ask when they call The Law Office of Eric C. Cheshire is: How much does a divorce cost in Florida? While it seems straightforward, the answer depends on multiple factors, including the type of divorce, the level of conflict between spouses, the complexity of the marital estate and whether children are involved.

Florida divorce law, found in Chapter 61 of the Florida Statutes, covers everything from dividing property to child support and alimony. Knowing how the law works helps explain why costs can vary so much.

Filing Fees and the Starting Point

Every divorce begins with a Petition for Dissolution of Marriage filed in circuit court. In Palm Beach County, the filing fee is about $419, which includes the summons, plus $40–$60 to have the papers formally processed, or served. These are the unavoidable starting costs.

Uncontested Divorce

In an uncontested divorce, both spouses agree on all major issues—who keeps what, how parenting time is divided, how child support is handled, and whether alimony is involved. The agreement is written into a Marital Settlement Agreement and submitted to the court for approval.

Because there will be no fighting in court, uncontested divorces are the least expensive option. In Florida, uncontested divorce attorney fees for uncontested divorces usually fall between $2,500 and $5,000. At The Law Office of Eric C. Cheshire, located in West Palm Beach, we help clients prepare the paperwork correctly and make sure the settlement complies with Florida law. That way, the final judgment is enforceable and future problems are avoided.

Contested Divorce

When spouses can’t agree on important issues, the case becomes a contested divorce, and costs increase. This is where attorney’s fees, discovery, motions, and hearings start to add up.

In West Palm Beach contested divorces, attorney’s fees are billed hourly, often between $350 and $600 per hour. This amount is usually determined by the attorney’s knowledge and experience, the nature and complexity of the case, and the location. Family law attorneys charge by the hour because cases are often unpredictable, as new issues may arise that need to be addressed. Total costs for a contested divorce can range from $7,500 to $25,000 or more, depending on the level of conflict and the complexity of the case. The issues that most often involve driving up costs include:

• Parenting and time-sharing under §61.13, Fla. Stat.
• Child support based on Florida’s guidelines (§61.30, Fla. Stat.)
• Equitable distribution of assets and debts (§61.075, Fla. Stat.)
• Alimony awards (§61.08, Fla. Stat.)

At The Law Office of Eric C. Cheshire, we focus on resolving disputes strategically and efficiently. While we’re prepared to litigate when necessary, our goal is to protect our clients’ rights without adding unnecessary financial strain.

Mediation

Florida courts require mediation in most contested divorces. Mediation gives both sides a chance to settle disagreements with the help of a neutral third party. It’s not always easy, but it often saves time and money.

In Palm Beach County, mediation costs usually run between $150 and $200 per person, per hour, though some mediators charge flat fees for half or full-day sessions. Even if only some issues are resolved in mediation, it can shorten the case and lower attorney’s fees.

Cases Involving Children

When children are involved, the court requires a Parenting Plan. If parents disagree about time-sharing or decision-making, additional professionals may get involved, such as:

• A Guardian ad Litem ($1,000 to $3,000 or more);
• A parenting coordinator;
• A psychologist to evaluate one or both parents.

These appointments help the court make decisions in the best interest of the child, but they do increase the overall cost of divorce.

Dividing Property and Finances

When the marriage involves real estate, retirement accounts, or a family business, experts may be needed to appraise or evaluate assets. Fees for appraisers and accountants can range from $3,000 to $10,000+, depending on the complexity.

Alimony disputes also add costs, especially if there are questions about undisclosed income or earning potential. These cases often require depositions, subpoenas, and expert testimony.

Other Personal Costs to Expect

Beyond legal fees, divorce often brings personal or secondary costs, such as:

• Moving and setting up a new home;
• Paying deposits or buying new furniture;
• Additional tax preparation, especially when dividing retirement accounts through a Qualified Domestic Relations Order (QDRO);
• Possible tax consequences from property sales or transfers.

These aren’t legal expenses, but they are part of the financial picture.

What Most Divorces Cost

For many people in Florida, divorce costs end up somewhere between $5,000 and $15,000. Highly contested cases, or those with valuable assets or complex parenting disputes, can easily exceed that range.

At The Law Office of Eric C. Cheshire in West Palm Beach, FL, we keep clients informed through clear retainers, transparent billing practices, and provide real-time digital files to our clients so they are kept up-to-date on their case and understand what to expect at each stage.

How to Keep Costs Down

There are steps you can take to manage costs during a divorce:

• Narrow down the issues you and your spouse can agree on;
• Complete your financial disclosures fully and on time (as required by Florida Family Law Rule 12.285);
• Participate in mediation with a genuine willingness to compromise;
• Weigh the financial cost of litigation against the benefits of settlement.

Conclusion

The cost of divorce in Florida depends on the people, the issues, and the assets involved. While there’s no set number, working with an experienced divorce attorney in West Palm Beach ensures that the process is handled properly and that your rights are protected.

FAQs: Divorce Costs in Florida

Can I represent myself in a Florida divorce?
Yes, you can. But divorce law involves strict procedures, and mistakes can create costly problems later. Most people benefit from having legal representation.

How long does divorce take in Palm Beach County?
Uncontested divorces can wrap up in 30–60 days. Contested divorces often take 6–18 months, depending on the court’s schedule and the number of disputed issues.

Does filing first affect the cost?
Not really. The person who files pays the initial filing fee, but the total cost depends on how complex and contested the case becomes.

Is mediation always required?
In almost every contested divorce in Florida, yes. Courts require mediation before trial to encourage settlement and reduce litigation.

Divorce is a major life change, and it is normal to feel uncertain about what comes next. At The Law Office of Eric C. Cheshire, located in West Palm Beach, Florida, we guide you through every step with care and clarity. Call us today at (561) 677-8090 to discuss your case and start making decisions that protect your family and your future.