What Actually Happens After You File for Divorce in Florida?

(The Timeline Few Explain)

Filing for divorce is a big step.

But what most people don’t realize is… filing is just the first step.

There’s no dramatic moment. No instant resolution. Instead, there’s a process, and if you don’t understand it, it can feel confusing, slow, and overwhelming.

So let’s walk through what actually happens after you file for divorce in Florida.

Step 1: The Case Is Filed… and Then Things Feel Quiet

Once your Petition for Dissolution of Marriage is filed, it’s normal to expect something to happen right away. However, there is a lag that happens after filing. That’s because the next step, serving the other party, has to happen before the case can move forward.

Step 2: The Other Party Is Served

The other spouse must be formally served with the divorce papers. From there, they typically have 20 days to file a response.

This is where the case officially becomes “active” on both sides.

Step 3: Financial Disclosure Begins

Both parties are required to exchange financial information.

This includes:

• Income

• Assets

• Debts

• Expenses

If you’ve read our blog on financial affidavits, this is where that comes into play.

It’s one of the most important parts of the process, and one that often takes more time than people expect.

Step 4: Mediation

All divorce cases in Florida will go to mediation before ever seeing the inside of a courtroom. There are exceptions, but these are not the typical case.

Mediation is a process in which both parties, with their attorneys, work toward a resolution with the help of a neutral third party. Many cases are resolved here.

Not because it’s easy, but because it allows both sides to have more control over the outcome.

Step 5: Temporary Relief (If Needed)

In some cases, one party may need immediate support while the divorce is pending.

This can include:

• Temporary child support

• Temporary alimony

• Temporary timesharing arrangements

These issues can be addressed through temporary hearings if necessary. Please note that mediation is required prior to any temporary relief hearing in the 19th Judicial Circuit.

Step 6: Settlement… or Trial

If an agreement is reached, the case moves toward a final judgment.

If not, the case may proceed to trial, where a judge will make the final decisions.

So… How Long Does This All Take?

This is one of the most common questions we hear.

And the honest answer is: It depends.

Some cases resolve in a few months. Others take longer, especially if there are complex financial issues or disagreements about children.

The Part No One Talks About

The hardest part of this process isn’t always the legal steps.

It’s the waiting. Feeling uncertain. The feeling of not knowing what comes next.

But here’s the truth:

Once you understand the process, it becomes less overwhelming and more manageable.

You Don’t Have to Navigate This Alone

At The Law Office of Kristen Bishop Ames, we believe that clarity matters.

Because when you understand what’s ahead, you can make informed decisions. and move forward with confidence.

If you’re thinking about filing, or you’ve already taken that first step, we’re here to help guide you through what comes next.

Contact Us