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Contested Divorce in Tampa, FL

What to expect from a contested divorce in Tampa, FL. Timeline, costs, and strategies. Florida follows equitable distribution.

Property Type

Equitable

Filing Fee

$400–$410

Median Cost

$13,500–$52,000

Annual Divorces

78,000+

Understanding Contested Divorce in Tampa, FL

To file for divorce in Tampa, FL, you must meet Florida’s residency requirement of 6 months. The filing fee is $400–$410. There is a mandatory waiting period of 20 days before the divorce can be finalized.

Florida only allows no-fault divorce. You file on the grounds of irreconcilable differences or irretrievable breakdown of the marriage.

An uncontested divorce in Florida typically costs $13,500 and takes 2–4 months. Contested cases average $52,000 and can take 12–18 months or longer. The governing statute is FL Stat. §61.08.

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Common Questions

How long do you have to live in Florida to file for divorce?
Florida requires 6 months of residency before you can file for divorce. FL Stat. §61.08 governs the filing requirements.
Is Florida a community property or equitable distribution state?
Florida follows equitable distribution rules, meaning the court divides marital assets fairly but not necessarily equally.
How much does a divorce cost in Florida?
Filing fees in Florida range from $400–$410. The median total cost is approximately $13,500 for uncontested divorces and $52,000 for contested cases.
How long does a divorce take in Florida?
Florida has a mandatory waiting period of 20 days. Uncontested divorces typically finalize in 2–4 months, while contested cases can take 12–18 months or longer.
How is child support calculated in Florida?
Florida uses the Income Shares model, based on both parents' combined income. The formula considers both parents' incomes, number of children, health insurance costs, and childcare expenses.

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Related Resources

This page provides general information about contested divorce in Tampa, FL and is not legal advice. Verify current statutes with FL Stat. §61.08 or consult a licensed Florida attorney. Last reviewed March 2026.