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

Divorcing without a lawyer in Orlando is entirely possible — and for many Florida couples, it’s the most affordable and efficient way to end a marriage. Florida law allows spouses to represent themselves (“pro se”), and the Orange County Clerk of Courts offers a clear process for completing an uncontested divorce without hiring an attorney.

This guide explains everything you need to know about filing for divorce without a lawyer in Orlando, including required forms, timelines, fees, and when legal help may still be appropriate.

Can You Really Divorce Without a Lawyer in Orlando, FL?

Yes. Thousands of Florida couples complete their divorce without an attorney, especially when the case is uncontested.

You're a good candidate for a DIY divorce if:

• You and your spouse agree on all financial and parenting issues

• You want to avoid attorney fees of $7,000–$20,000+

• Your case is low-conflict

• Your finances and property are simple

• You’re comfortable completing court forms

If your case involves domestic violence, hidden assets, or significant disputes, legal advice may still be necessary — but for straightforward cases, most Orlando couples finalize their divorce without a lawyer.

Florida’s Requirements for Filing Without a Lawyer

1. Residency Requirement

To file in Orlando, one spouse must have lived in Florida for at least 6 months before filing.

You can prove residency with:

• Florida driver’s license

• Voter registration

• Florida ID card

• Third-party affidavit

2. Grounds for Divorce

Florida is a no-fault state. The only grounds needed are:

• The marriage is irretrievably broken

Two Types of No-Lawyer Divorce in Orlando

Florida offers two paths for uncontested cases:

1. Regular Uncontested Divorce (Most Common)

Used when:

• You have children, or

• You have property, or

• You’re dividing assets/debts, or

• You want spousal support

This is the most flexible and widely used option.

2. Simplified Dissolution of Marriage (Fastest Option)

Available only if:

• No minor children

• No pregnancy

• Both spouses agree on all issues

• No alimony requested

• Both agree the marriage is irretrievably broken

• Both spouses attend the final hearing

This option is extremely fast and straightforward.

How to Divorce Without a Lawyer in Orlando — Step by Step

1. Gather Required Florida Family Law Forms

Forms vary depending on your situation but commonly include:

• Petition for Dissolution of Marriage

• Family Law Financial Affidavit

• Marital Settlement Agreement

• Notice of Social Security Number

• UCCJEA Affidavit (if children)

• Parenting Plan

• Child Support Guidelines Worksheet

• Final Judgment

Orange County Notes

Orange County may require:

• Additional local forms

• Multiple original signatures

• Certified copies of court documents

Divorce.com prepares all Florida + county-compliant forms for you.

2. File Your Forms With the Orange County Clerk of Courts

Orange County Courthouse
425 N. Orange Ave.
Orlando, FL 32801

Filing Fee

• Approximately $400–$430
  Additional costs:

• Parenting course fees

• Certified copies

• Sheriff or process server fees

Fee waivers are available based on financial need.

3. Serve Your Spouse (If Not Filing Simplified Dissolution)

Service is required unless:

• You and your spouse file a Simplified Dissolution — no service needed

• Your spouse signs an Answer and Waiver

Service options include:

• Sheriff

• Certified process server

• Acceptance of Service (signed and notarized)

After service, file a Proof of Service.

4. Exchange Mandatory Financial Documents

Florida requires full financial disclosure, unless you both waive it in a simplified case.

Documents include:

• Financial affidavits

• Tax returns

• Bank statements

• Pay stubs

• Retirement account statements

Judges will not finalize your case until disclosures are complete.

5. Create Your Marital Settlement Agreement

Your agreement should cover:

• Property division

• Debt division

• Parenting arrangements

• Timesharing (custody) schedule

• Child support (must meet Florida guidelines)

• Alimony

• Insurance and taxes

Divorce.com guides couples through building a complete, court-ready settlement.

6. Take the Required Parenting Course (If Children)

Florida requires both parents to complete a state-approved parenting class before finalizing any divorce involving children.

Certificates of completion must be filed with the court.

7. Attend Your Final Hearing

Simplified Dissolution

Both spouses must appear. Hearing lasts 5–10 minutes.

Regular Uncontested Divorce

Often only one spouse (the petitioner) needs to appear.

The judge will confirm:

• Residency

• Marriage is irretrievably broken

• Agreement was entered voluntarily

• Parenting plan and support arrangements comply with Florida law

Once approved, the judge signs your Final Judgment of Dissolution of Marriage.

How Long Does an Uncontested Divorce Take in Orlando?

Typical timelines:

• Simplified divorce: 20–45 days

• Regular uncontested divorce: 30–90 days

• Cases with children: Often 45–120 days (due to parenting course requirements)

Your timeline will depend on court workload, service speed, and how quickly forms are completed.

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

Typical expenses:

• $400–$430 filing fee

• $0–$75 process server fees

• $30–$60 parenting course (if children)

• $0 if you prepare forms yourself

• $499–$1999 using Divorce.com (forms + agreement)

Attorney-led divorce in Orlando often costs $10,000–$25,000+, making DIY divorce a far more affordable option.

When You Should Still Consider Hiring a Lawyer

A lawyer may be helpful if:

• Domestic violence or safety concerns exist

• A spouse hides assets or income

• Businesses or significant property are involved

• Custody is contested

• One spouse refuses to cooperate

For low-conflict cases, most Orlando divorces can be completed without an attorney.

Why Orlando Couples Choose Divorce.com

Divorce.com helps Florida families:

• Prepare all state + county-required forms

• Build complete settlement agreements

• Avoid filing errors that cause delays

• Understand Florida parenting and support rules

• Access optional attorney support when needed

It’s the fastest and most affordable way to complete a no-lawyer divorce in Orlando.

Final Thoughts

Divorcing without a lawyer in Orlando, FL is entirely achievable — especially when both spouses agree on key issues and follow clear guidance. With proper forms, complete disclosures, and a thorough settlement agreement, you can finalize your divorce quickly, confidently, and affordably.

Divorce.com provides everything you need to file and complete your Orange County divorce from start to finish.