How Much Does a Divorce Cost in Florida?

Divorce can be emotionally taxing and financially draining. The cost of a divorce in Florida varies widely depending on several factors, including the complexity of the case, whether it is contested or uncontested, and the involvement of children or significant marital assets. You need an experienced divorce lawyer on your side who has the skills and resources to achieve the desired objectives while remaining prudent with the costs.

Average Divorce Costs in Florida

According to a report published in USA Today in 2020:

• The average cost of divorce without children in Florida is $13,500, making it the 15th highest in the U.S.
• The average cost of divorce with children rises to $20,300, placing it 16th highest nationally.
• Divorce filing fees range from $350 to $410, depending on the county.

While these averages provide a helpful starting point, the actual costs of a divorce in Florida can range from as low as $500 to well over $100,000, depending on the specifics of the case.

Uncontested vs. Contested Divorce in Florida

Uncontested Divorce

A simplified dissolution of marriage is the least expensive and quickest type of divorce in Florida. It requires that both parties:

• Agree on all aspects of the divorce, including asset division and child-related matters (if applicable).
• Prepare and file the paperwork themselves.

The total cost for a simplified divorce typically amounts to $408, which includes the clerk’s filing fee. Additional fees may include:

• Summons issuance: $10.
• Sheriff service fee: $40 (if one spouse needs to be served with divorce papers).
• Property transfer fees: If the marital home or other property is transferred, deed recording fees will apply.

Contested Divorce

A contested divorce is significantly more complex and costly. Disagreements may arise over issues such as:

1. Child custody and parenting plans.
2. Alimony requests.
3. Division of significant marital assets.
4. Disputes over poorly drafted prenuptial agreements.
5. Relocation of children.

Contested divorces typically cost between $5,000 and $20,000, with fees increasing as disputes require additional attorney hours, mediation, expert witnesses, and court appearances. Depending on the duration and complexity of the litigation, costs can easily exceed $50,000 if a case goes to trial.

Factors Influencing Divorce Costs in Florida

Legal Fees

• Hourly Rates: Florida divorce attorneys generally charge $225 to $310 per hour, though rates may be higher in specific urban locations.
• Retainers: Attorneys often require an upfront retainer of $2,000 to $5,000, which is drawn upon as they work on the case.

The overall cost depends heavily on the time spent resolving disputes, negotiating settlements, and preparing for trial.

Court Filing Fees

The filing fee for a divorce in Florida is approximately $400. Some counties may charge an additional $10 to $15 for self-represented individuals. If a spouse cannot afford these fees, they may apply for civil indigent status, which can waive the filing fee.

Mediation Costs

Mediation is a cost-effective alternative to going to trial, helping couples negotiate a settlement without judicial intervention. Mediators typically charge $200 to $500 per session, which can save both parties significant legal expenses if agreements are reached quickly.

Child Custody and Support

Divorces involving children are inherently more expensive. Costs can escalate due to:

• Parenting plan disputes.
• Child support calculations: Based on Florida Statutes Ch. 61 Sec. 30, support is determined by the parent’s monthly net income and the number of children. Courts may adjust support amounts by up to 5% based on factors such as the child’s needs and the parent’s financial conditions.

Property Division and Alimony

Florida follows equitable distribution laws, which aim to divide marital assets fairly. However, disputes over property values and asset division can increase costs:

• Appraisal fees: For valuing homes, businesses, or other assets.
• Forensic accountants: To uncover hidden income or assets.
• Expert witnesses: To testify about the valuation of complex assets.

Alimony is determined based on factors like the duration of the marriage, the spouses’ earning capacities, and their standard of living during the marriage, as outlined in Florida Statutes Ch. 61 Sec. 8. Disputes over alimony terms often lead to prolonged legal battles and increased costs.

Expert Fees

Divorce cases may require hiring professionals beyond attorneys, including:

• Financial experts: To assess shared debts and income discrepancies.
• Mental health professionals: For custody evaluations.
• Real estate appraisers: To determine the fair market value of property.

If a Florida Divorce Case Goes to Trial, the Estimated Costs May Be Higher

If traditional divorce litigation is involved, the costs can become highly unpredictable and escalate rapidly. A variety of factors influence the overall cost of a divorce trial, making it nearly impossible to predict expenses accurately. Key contributors include:

• Stubborn or Uncooperative Behavior
  When one or both parties take a hardline stance on issues such as asset division or timesharing, it can lead to unnecessary hearings and prolonged court proceedings. This behavior increases the litigation costs and delays resolution.
• Extensive Discovery
  Discovery is the process of exchanging financial documents, communications, and other relevant evidence. If one party requests extensive discovery or fails to cooperate, it can lead to additional motions to compel, forensic accounting costs, and prolonged litigation.
• Complex Assets and Debts
  Cases involving businesses, investments, or high-value assets require detailed financial evaluations, often necessitating expert witnesses like forensic accountants or business valuation professionals. These experts can charge thousands of dollars for their services, significantly adding to the total cost.
• Contentious Timesharing Issues
  Co-parenting disputes are among the most emotionally charged aspects of divorce. If one party adopts an aggressive position regarding custody and timesharing, it may lead to psychological evaluations, guardian ad litem appointments, or other costly interventions aimed at protecting the best interests of the child.
• Number of Witnesses and Expert Testimony
  Trials often involve testimony from witnesses, such as financial experts, appraisers, or mental health professionals. Each witness adds to the cost, not only in fees but also in preparation time for the attorneys.
• Length of the Trial
  A divorce trial in Florida can span several days or even weeks. Each day in Florida courts requires the presence of attorneys, experts, and sometimes even court reporters, all of whom charge for their time.

When all these factors combine, Florida divorce costs may sometimes surpass $50,000. This figure includes the cost of a divorce lawyer, expert witness fees, court filing fees, and other miscellaneous expenses. If post-trial motions or appeals are filed, the financial burden may increase due to the prolonged divorce process.

Why Settling Out of Court is Usually Preferred

Given the high cost and prolonged nature of divorce trials, many family law attorneys advocate for settlement negotiations as a way to resolve disputes more efficiently. While settlement discussions still require legal representation, they are typically faster and less expensive than a full trial. Parties retain more control over the outcome and can avoid the uncertainty and financial risks associated with leaving decisions to a judge.

Estimated Costs in a Florida High Net Worth Divorce

High net-worth divorces in Florida are inherently more complex and costly due to the significant financial stakes and intricate marital property portfolios involved. 

Business Assets Division

• Cost of Business Valuation Experts:
  A professional business valuation can cost between $10,000 and $50,000, depending on the size and complexity of the business.
• Disputes Over Valuation:
  If one party disputes the valuation, additional experts may be hired, increasing costs further in addition to attorney fees.

Real Estate Assets Division

• Cost of Real Estate Appraisals:
  Real estate appraisers typically charge $500 to $5,000 per property, with costs rising for unique or high-value properties.
• International Real Estate:
  If overseas properties are involved, the costs increase significantly due to the need for international valuation experts and currency exchange rate analyses.

Hidden Overseas Assets

• Forensic Accounting for Offshore Accounts:
  Tracking down hidden offshore assets can cost between $10,000 and $50,000, depending on the level of concealment and the jurisdictions involved.
• Compliance with International Laws:
  Legal and accounting fees can increase significantly if compliance with foreign laws, such as those related to disclosure or taxation, is required.

Complex Financial Accounting

• Cost of Financial Experts:
  Forensic accountants charge $200 to $600 per hour, with total costs ranging from $10,000 to $100,000, depending on the complexity of the financial landscape.
• Cryptocurrency and Digital Assets:
  With the rise of digital currencies like Bitcoin, forensic accountants may need to investigate blockchain transactions to uncover hidden assets, adding substantial costs.

High Amounts of Child Support and Alimony

• Expert Witness Costs:
  Economists and lifestyle analysts can charge $5,000 to $20,000 for their services, depending on the complexity of their analysis, where issues such as alimony or support for minor children are involved.
• Long-Term Financial Planning:
  Attorneys may consult financial planners to ensure that spousal support or child support agreements align with the client’s long-term financial goals, which have additional costs.

Why It’s Worth Choosing Our Seasoned Divorce Lawyers in Florida

At Veliz Katz Law, we bring the legal skills, strategic planning, and commitment needed to achieve a favorable outcome for your case. Here’s why our team is the right choice for this critical chapter of your life.

Experience That Delivers Results

Divorce law is intricate, and mistakes can have lasting consequences. Compared to errors that can be fixed, a poor choice in legal representation during a divorce usually leaves no room for corrections. Final judgments in Florida are precisely that—final—and can only be appealed or modified in exceptional circumstances.

• Proven Skill in Complex Cases:
  At Veliz Katz Law, we have years of experience handling all types of divorce cases, including those involving high-net-worth individuals, complex custody arrangements, and contested property divisions. We anticipate challenges and prepare accordingly to avoid pitfalls that could haunt you for years to come.
• Avoiding Irreversible Mistakes:
  A poorly handled divorce can lead to unfair alimony arrangements, loss of property rights, or unfavorable custody decisions. We focus on protecting your rights from the outset to prevent costly and often irreversible outcomes.

Protecting What Matters Most to You

The stakes in a divorce are high, especially when children, family businesses, or valuable assets are involved. Our attorneys are dedicated to protecting what matters most to you.

• Strong Advocacy for Custody and Support:
  We understand that custody and child support arrangements are emotionally charged. We fight for solutions that prioritize the well-being of your children and ensure you remain an active part of their lives.
• Comprehensive Asset Protection:
  From marital homes to investments, retirement accounts, and business interests, we ensure that unfair settlements or overlooked assets do not jeopardize your financial future.

Avoiding the “Low-Ball” Trap

Choosing a low-cost attorney may seem like a way to save money, but the long-term consequences of inadequate representation can far outweigh the upfront savings.

• Why Low-Cost Options Can Be Risky:
  Inexperienced attorneys may lack the knowledge to navigate Florida’s complex divorce laws or the skills to negotiate with confidence. The result? Poor settlements, missed opportunities, and even financial losses that could have been avoided.
• Final Judgments Are Final:
  Once a divorce judgment is entered, undoing the damage caused by poor legal representation is incredibly challenging and often impossible. Veliz Katz Law ensures your case is handled with the care and skill required to get it right the first time.

Compassionate, Client-Focused Representation

Divorce is one of life’s most difficult experiences, and we are committed to guiding you through it with compassion and professionalism.

• Personalized Attention:
  At Veliz Katz Law, you’re more than just a case number. We take the time to listen to your concerns, answer your questions, and provide the support you need during this challenging time.
• Peace of Mind:
  Knowing that your case is in the hands of seasoned professionals allows you to focus on rebuilding your life rather than worrying about the outcome of your divorce.

Get Our Trusted Florida Divorce Lawyers on Your Side

At Veliz Katz Law, we understand the weight of the decisions made during a divorce and the lasting impact they can have on your life. Choosing experienced and dedicated attorneys is not just a wise decision—it is critical to ensuring the best possible outcome. Don’t leave your future to chance by settling for less. Reach out to our Florida divorce attorneys today and take the first step toward protecting your interests. To schedule your free consultation, call us at 407-410-4146 or contact us online.