Thinking about divorce is tough, and waiting can feel even tougher. At Mindful Divorce, P.A., we offer transparent, fixed-fee services that cut out guesswork, so you can plan without worrying about surprise bills. Our goal here is simple: we explain Florida’s divorce waiting period in clear terms, then show how to use this short window wisely. If you are looking for the next steps, you are in the right place.
Florida’s Mandatory Waiting Period Explained
Florida law sets a minimum waiting period of 20 days from the date you file your Petition for Dissolution of Marriage. This rule appears in Florida Statute § 61.19. A judge cannot sign a final judgment until those 20 days have passed.
The 20-day window applies to both contested and uncontested divorces. That means it applies whether you agree on everything or not.
Why a delay at all? The statute gives spouses a short pause to reflect on the consequences of divorce and, in some cases, to reconcile. It also provides time to settle terms that may still be open.
Now let’s look at what actually happens during those 20 days, and how you can make the most of them.
What Happens During the 20-Day Waiting Period?
Plenty can move forward while the clock runs. Many spouses use this time to discuss and write up the terms for property division, child time-sharing, and support. If you reach a full agreement, you can be ready for a quick final hearing after day 20.
- Mediation often takes place during this period. A neutral mediator helps both sides discuss disputed issues and reach a middle ground.
- In contested cases, the waiting days are used to file required forms, exchange financial documents, and schedule hearings as needed.
- Parents can draft a parenting plan that addresses weekdays, weekends, holidays, and communication rules, saving time later.
Using this short window well speeds things up once the minimum period has passed.
Some people ask whether the 20 days can be skipped in an emergency. Courts have a narrow path for that, covered next.
Are There Circumstances for Waiving the Waiting Period?
Yes, a judge can waive the 20-day requirement, but only in limited circumstances. You must show a pressing need for faster relief, and the court decides whether the facts justify it.
- Financial hardship that cannot wait, like a looming foreclosure tied to the marital home.
- Medical emergencies that require a quick case closure.
- Documented domestic violence or personal safety concerns.
- Military deployment that affects the timing of a final hearing.
Waivers are uncommon and granted at the court’s discretion. To ask for one, you or your lawyer files a motion that explains the unique facts and why a shorter timeline is needed.
For most families, the better question is not how to skip the 20 days but how to avoid delays beyond that point.
Extending the Divorce Timeline: When More Time Is Needed
Twenty days is a floor, not a finish line. Some divorces wrap up quickly after the minimum period, and others take longer. The difference usually comes down to disputes, documents, kids, and court scheduling.
Disagreements about property, alimony, or child issues can stretch the process. When minor children are involved, the court typically requires a parenting course and a complete parenting plan, both of which add steps.
The table below shows common timeline drivers and how they affect speed.
| Factor | Why It Adds Time | Typical Impact |
| Contested issues | Negotiation, mediation, or hearings are needed to resolve disputes | Weeks to months, depending on the complexity |
| Minor children | Parenting course, parenting plan, and child-focused review | Several weeks added, sometimes more |
| Financial disclosures | Collecting and exchanging bank, tax, and investment records | 1 to 6 weeks, longer if documents are missing |
| Court calendars | Availability for hearings and final judgment dates | Varies by county and season |
| Agreed settlements | Less court time is needed once the full agreement is signed | Faster final hearing after day 20 |
Even when a case cannot finish right at day 20, there are simple steps you can take to keep things moving.
Practical Steps to Take During the Waiting Period
Small tasks finished early save big time later. Think of this list as your 20-day punch list.
- Gather financial paperwork, including bank statements, credit card statements, tax returns, pay stubs, retirement and investment records, and mortgage or loan information.
- If you have kids, draft a parenting plan that covers time-sharing, exchanges, holidays, travel, and decision-making responsibilities.
- Complete Florida’s parenting course if required, and be sure to file the certificate to avoid a hold-up at the end.
- Set mediation quickly in contested cases. Settling even one or two issues can shrink the number of hearings you need.
If you start these items right after filing, you reduce the chance of a post-20-day delay.
Sometimes the best way to shorten a case is to choose a simpler case type from the start. Florida has such an option.
Simplified Dissolution of Marriage
Florida’s Simplified Dissolution of Marriage is a streamlined process for couples who meet certain conditions. It cuts out many steps in a standard case and often wraps up more quickly after the 20-day mark.
To see if you and your spouse qualify, review the checklist below carefully.
Requirements for Simplified Dissolution:
- At least one spouse has lived in Florida for at least six months before filing.
- Both spouses agree that the marriage is irretrievably broken.
- There are no minor or dependent children from the marriage, and neither spouse is pregnant.
- Both spouses agree on how they will divide their marital assets and debts and, if necessary, sign a marital settlement agreement.
- Neither spouse is seeking spousal support.
- Both spouses agree to sign and file a Petition for Simplified Dissolution of Marriage together at the county circuit court where either of them lives.
- Both spouses agree to attend the final court hearing.
If you do not meet these conditions, you can still pursue an uncontested divorce. Many couples reach an agreement through mediation and file a standard settlement that a judge can approve shortly after day 20.
Considering Divorce in Florida? Reach Out to Mindful Divorce, P.A.
Divorce is never easy, yet knowing your rights and the timeline gives you a steadier footing. If you have questions about Florida’s 20-day waiting period or want a plan that fits your family, reach out to us. At Mindful Divorce, P.A., we use fixed-fee schedules and a calm, caring approach, so you can focus on your future while we handle the legal work.
Feel free to call 561.537.8227 or visit our website to set up a consultation. We welcome your questions and aim for clear resolutions that protect what matters most. If you are ready for a steady path forward, let’s talk today.
