How to Divorce Without a Lawyer in Miami, FL (Complete Step-by-Step Guide)

Divorcing without a lawyer in Miami is not only allowed — many couples choose it because it’s faster, simpler, and far more affordable than hiring attorneys. Florida makes the self-represented (“pro se”) divorce process accessible, especially for couples with uncontested divorces. Miami-Dade County also offers standardized forms and clear filing procedures to help people complete their divorce on their own.

This guide walks you through every step of how to divorce without a lawyer in Miami, including the required forms, court fees, timelines, and when you might still want legal help.

Can You File for Divorce Without a Lawyer in Miami, FL?

Yes. You can absolutely file for divorce without a lawyer in Florida.

A DIY divorce works best when:

• Your divorce is uncontested

• You and your spouse can agree on property, custody, and support

• You want to avoid paying thousands in attorney’s fees

• Your financial situation is relatively straightforward

• You prefer a faster, more efficient process

If disagreements arise, you can still involve a lawyer later — but most Miami uncontested divorces can be completed entirely without legal representation.

How to Divorce Without a Lawyer in Miami — Step-by-Step

1. Make Sure You Meet Florida’s Residency Requirement

To file for divorce in Miami-Dade County, one spouse must have lived in Florida for at least:

• 6 months before filing, and

• Live in Miami-Dade County at the time of filing

Proof of residency can include a driver’s license, voter registration, or an affidavit from a witness.

2. Choose the Type of Divorce

Florida offers two main DIY divorce options:

A. Simplified Dissolution of Marriage

Use this path if:

• You agree on everything

• No minor children

• No pregnancy

• No alimony requested

• Both spouses agree to sign and appear in court

This is the fastest and least expensive option.

B. Regular Uncontested Divorce

Use this if:

• You have minor children

• You want alimony

• You still agree on all major issues

This process is slightly more detailed but still straightforward.

3. Gather Required Florida and Miami-Dade Divorce Forms

Common Florida Forms

• Petition for Dissolution of Marriage

• Marital Settlement Agreement

• Notice of Social Security Number

• Family Law Financial Affidavit (Short or Long Form)

• UCCJEA Affidavit (if children)

• Child Support Guidelines Worksheet (if children)

• Final Judgment of Dissolution of Marriage

• Summons (for service unless doing simplified divorce)

Miami-Dade County Requirements

Miami-Dade may require:

• Cover Sheet for Family Court Cases

• Packet-specific instructions

• Alternate service procedures

• Notarized signatures

Divorce.com automatically prepares the correct Florida and Miami-Dade forms for you.

4. File Your Forms with the Miami-Dade County Clerk of Court

File at:

Miami-Dade County Clerk of Courts – Family Division
1130 Washington Avenue
Miami Beach, FL 33139
(Or any authorized filing location in Miami-Dade County)

Filing Fee

• The Miami-Dade divorce filing fee is typically $409

• Additional fees apply for summons issuance and certified copies

Fee waivers may be available if you meet financial qualifications.

5. Serve Your Spouse (Unless Filing Simplified Divorce)

If you’re doing a regular uncontested divorce, you must formally serve your spouse unless they sign an Answer and Waiver or Appearance.

Acceptable service methods:

• Miami-Dade Sheriff’s Office

• Private process server

• Spouse voluntarily signs an Acceptance/Waiver

Proper service is required before your case can proceed.

6. Complete Mandatory Financial Disclosures

Both spouses must exchange:

• Income documentation

• Assets and debts

• Tax returns

• Retirement accounts

• Property information

You must file a Financial Affidavit with the court.

7. Finalize Your Settlement Agreement

For an uncontested divorce in Miami, your Marital Settlement Agreement must cover:

• Property division

• Debt allocation

• Parenting plan (if children)

• Child support

• Spousal support (if any)

• Health insurance and childcare provisions

If you have children, the parenting plan must comply with Florida’s time-sharing and decision-making requirements.

Divorce.com provides guided tools to help you build a complete, court-ready agreement.

8. Attend Your Final Hearing

For most Miami uncontested divorces, a brief court hearing is required.

You’ll present:

• Photo ID

• Proof of residency

• Signed settlement agreement

• Final judgment forms

• Parenting plan (if applicable)

Many hearings last just a few minutes, and the judge signs your Final Judgment during or shortly after the hearing.

How Long Does an Uncontested Divorce Take in Miami?

Most DIY divorces in Miami take:

• 30–90 days for uncontested cases

• 1–2 months for simplified dissolution

• Longer if paperwork is incomplete or the court is busy

Miami-Dade processing times vary, but uncontested cases tend to move quickly.

How Much Does It Cost to Divorce Without a Lawyer in Miami?

Typical Miami DIY divorce costs:

• $409 filing fee

• $0–$50 for notary fees

• $40–$100 to serve your spouse (if needed)

• $0 if completing forms yourself

• $299–$999 for full guided service + forms from Divorce.com

Attorney-led divorces in Miami often cost $10,000–$20,000+, making DIY divorce far more affordable.

When You Should Still Consider Hiring a Lawyer

DIY divorce may not be right if:

• Domestic violence is involved

• A spouse is hiding assets

• You own complex property (business, multiple homes, investments)

• Custody or timesharing is highly contested

• One spouse refuses to cooperate

You can still start the process alone and bring in an attorney later only if needed.

Why Miami Couples Use Divorce.com

Miami residents choose Divorce.com because it:

• Prepares all Florida + Miami-Dade forms

• Builds a court-ready settlement agreement

• Reduces paperwork errors

• Provides step-by-step filing guidance

• Offers optional attorney support

It’s the easiest, fastest, and most affordable way to complete a Miami divorce without a lawyer.

Final Thoughts

Divorcing without a lawyer in Miami is absolutely doable — and often the best option for couples seeking an efficient and low-cost solution. With the right forms and clear guidance, you can complete your divorce quickly and confidently.

Divorce.com can guide you through every step of your Miami divorce, from filing to final judgment.