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Date Posted: August 17, 2025 2:53 am Author: Scott A. Levine
To file for divorce in Broward County in 2025, you must complete the required forms, file with the Clerk of Courts, pay the filing fee, and serve your spouse.
Florida law requires full financial disclosure and a 20-day response period after service.
It’s easy to feel overwhelmed, but knowing the basics can make things less stressful.
To file for divorce in Broward County, you need to submit a Petition for Dissolution of Marriage to the Unified Family Court in the Central Courthouse, West Building, with all required documents and filing fees.
The process changes depending on whether your divorce is contested or uncontested. That difference affects how long things take and how complicated it gets.
Some people go through the process on their own, while others hire an attorney. Either way, knowing where to file, which forms are required, and the associated costs helps you avoid mistakes.
This guide lays out the steps—from collecting documents to what happens after you submit your papers—so you can navigate Broward County’s family court system a little more confidently.
Filing for divorce here involves following specific local rules. The Broward County Clerk’s Office handles family law cases like divorce, adoption, and paternity.
The Clerk’s office sits in room 252 at the Broward County Courthouse. They’re open 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Monday through Friday.
Local Filing Requirements
| Step | Action Required |
| 1 | Prepare the required paperwork |
| 2 | Get forms notarized |
| 3 | Submit to Family Court |
| 4 | Pay filing fees |
Broward County utilizes Florida divorce laws, but it also incorporates its own local procedures. You need to prepare your paperwork, obtain the correct forms, and submit them along with the required fees.
The county lets you use eFiling services for certain documents. You can send paperwork online instead of going to the courthouse.
Broward County is part of Florida’s 17th Judicial Circuit. The Family Law division handles divorce and other domestic cases.
Procedures here may not always be the same as those in other counties, so following Broward-specific steps is crucial.
Before you file, figure out which type of divorce fits your situation. The choice shapes how long things take, what you pay, and how the court works with you.
Uncontested Divorce happens when both spouses agree on everything—property, custody, alimony, debts, the whole package.
Uncontested divorces typically proceed more quickly, incur lower costs, and generate less stress than contested ones. Couples avoid the big court battles and maintain control over the outcome.
Contested Divorce is what you get when you and your spouse can’t agree, even on something small. In Florida, any disagreement can make the case contested.
| Uncontested Divorce | Contested Divorce |
| Both parties agree on all terms | Disagreement on major issues |
| Faster resolution | Longer timeline |
| Lower legal costs | Higher attorney fees |
| Minimal court appearances | Multiple hearings possible |
The path you take depends on how much you agree with your spouse and the complexity of the situation.
Most cases start as contested, but people sometimes resolve them and switch to uncontested. Circumstances can shift as you go through the process.
You’ll need certain forms to file for divorce in Broward County. The main ones are the petition for dissolution of marriage, a financial affidavit, and a summons with notice of related cases.
The petition kicks off the divorce process. This form requests that the court formally end your marriage.
You’ll pick between two versions: one for couples with kids, and one for those without. The version with children covers custody, visitation, and support. The other focuses on property and spousal support.
You’ll need to provide details about both spouses, including names, addresses, birth dates, and Social Security numbers. The form also requests your marriage date and the location of your wedding.
List your property and debts. Include real estate, bank accounts, retirement funds, and big debts. The court uses this info to divide things fairly.
If you have children, please list their names, ages, and current addresses. You’ll also need to explain custody preferences and support needs.
The financial affidavit lays out your finances for the court. Judges use it to decide on alimony, child support, and attorney fees.
Florida has two forms for this: a short one for individuals making less than $50,000 per year, and a longer one for those earning more.
You’ll need to list monthly income—wages, self-employment, rental income, and government benefits. Back it up with paperwork.
You also have to break down your monthly expenses. Think housing, utilities, food, transportation, and childcare. The court checks these to see what you need.
List all your assets and debts. That means bank accounts, investments, property, and loans with their current values. Falsifying information on this form can result in serious consequences.
The summons tells your spouse you’ve filed for divorce. You need to serve it according to Florida law, or the court won’t have authority over them.
The summons spells out deadlines. Your spouse has 20 days to answer after being served. If they don’t, you could get a default judgment.
The notice of related cases lists any other court proceedings involving the same individuals, such as old divorces, custody battles, and domestic violence cases. The court uses this to maintain order and organization.
Serve both the summons and notice with your petition. Usually, a process server or sheriff’s deputy delivers these papers.
The Florida Courts website has all the official divorce forms for Broward County. These forms ensure compliance with current state rules and court procedures.
You can download the forms as PDFs. The site organizes them by case type, allowing you to find what you need. Family law forms are frequently updated to reflect legal changes.
Each form comes with instructions. They explain what info you need and point out common mistakes. Take a few minutes to read these before you begin filling out the forms.
Some forms require notarized signatures before filing. The website marks which ones do. Local banks and notaries can handle this for a small fee.
Filing divorce papers in Broward County? Levine Family Law can help ensure every document is correct and complete. Start your case with confidence—contact us today for a filing consultation.
If you’re ready to get started, call us now!
Broward County’s main courthouse sits in downtown Fort Lauderdale. You can file divorce papers online or in person at the courthouse during business hours.
The Central Judicial Complex is where most family law cases happen in Broward County. It’s at 201 SE 6th Street, right in Fort Lauderdale.
There’s parking and public transit nearby, but plan for a little extra time to get through security at the entrance.
Broward County has four courthouse locations, but the Central Judicial Complex handles most divorce cases.
The courthouse is open Monday through Friday during regular business hours. Department hours are subject to change, so please double-check before visiting.
Online filing is always open, day or night. You can submit your case and upload documents from anywhere, which saves time.
In-person filing means visiting the courthouse, but you receive assistance from the staff. They can answer questions and assist with paperwork in real-time.
Many people prefer online filing for its convenience. Others just feel better getting face-to-face help, especially if things get complicated.
The Broward County eFiling system lets you send divorce documents online. You set up an account, upload your forms, and pay fees through their secure portal.
You can still drop off paperwork at the courthouse if you prefer. Bring your completed forms and payment to the clerk’s office during business hours.
eFiling advantages include:
Physical filing benefits:
The Broward County Clerk of Courts Family Division handles all divorce-related filings and case processing. This division also manages adoptions, name changes, and paternity cases filed through the clerk’s office.
The Family Division website offers forms, filing instructions, and fee schedules. You can check your case status and download documents there, which is convenient.
Court staff manage family law services, including record maintenance and case management. The division operates independently of the Broward County Commission, but it utilizes county-maintained buildings.
Before you file, look over the Family Division requirements. Getting the forms right and paying the fees up front can save you a lot of hassle later.
The filing fee for divorce in Broward County is around $409. There are extra costs for things like summons and sheriff service, and if you’re low-income, you might qualify for a fee waiver.
Who pays depends on whether your case is contested or uncontested. Not always fair, but that’s how it goes.
The main cost for filing divorce papers in Broward County is the court’s filing fee. This covers the court’s processing when you submit your initial paperwork.
The average filing fee in Florida is $400, and Broward County’s is about $409. Everyone pays this fee, regardless of the case’s complexity.
You’ll need to pay when you file the Petition for Dissolution of Marriage. Here’s how you can pay:
The fee is non-refundable after the court accepts your paperwork. It doesn’t matter if your case involves kids, property, or alimony—the cost stays the same.
In addition to the filing fee, you may also incur costs for other services. It depends on what your case needs.
Summons fees typically range from $10 to $ 15 per document. The court sends out a summons to let your spouse know you’ve filed for divorce.
Sheriff service fees range from $40 to $ 75 per attempt. The sheriff’s office delivers legal documents if you need personal service. Some counties charge more if they need to try multiple times.
Notarization costs typically range from $10 to $ 15 per document. Many divorce forms require notarization before they can be filed.
Other possible fees:
These costs can accumulate, especially if your divorce is contested and you need to file numerous documents or serve papers multiple times.
If you have a low income, you might qualify for a fee waiver through Florida’s indigent program. This could wipe out most court costs if you’re eligible.
The Broward County Clerk takes care of fee waiver applications for folks who can’t afford court costs. You’ll have to show proof of financial hardship.
Usually, you’ll need to meet these requirements:
Bring proof of income, expenses, and assets—think pay stubs, benefit letters, tax returns. Processing takes about 5-10 business days. The court can approve a full or partial waiver, depending on your situation.
Who pays what really depends on whether your divorce is contested or uncontested. It comes down to how complicated things get and how well you and your spouse get along.
The person who files pays the court fee. Sometimes, both spouses split extra costs, such as notarization or document preparation, but that’s up to you.
Most uncontested divorces in Broward County cost under $500. They’re usually straightforward and don’t incur many extra fees.
Each spouse pays their own attorney and court costs. The person who files still pays the initial filing fee, regardless of the outcome.
If there’s a big income gap, the court might order one spouse to pay some of the other’s attorney fees. That call depends on the details of your case and financial situation.
Contested cases can become expensive quickly—consider mediation, expert witnesses, and prolonged court battles. It’s not unusual for these costs to hit thousands.
After you file divorce papers in Broward County, you have to serve your spouse within 120 days. They get 20 days to respond once served.
The court can issue temporary orders about kids or finances during this waiting period. It’s not automatic, but it happens a lot.
Once you file, you have to notify your spouse officially. That’s called service of process, and it starts the legal clock.
Ways to serve in Broward County:
Your spouse needs to get the summons and petition for dissolution of marriage. These explain what you’re asking for and what the court expects.
You have 120 days to serve your spouse. The person delivering the papers must be over 18 and can’t be involved in the case.
After service, file a proof of service form with the court. That informs the judge that your spouse has received the paperwork and begins their response window.
Your spouse has 20 days to respond after being served. The clock starts the day they get the papers, not when you filed them.
Response options:
The response has to address each part of your petition. Your spouse can agree with some things and argue with others.
If they wish to request different terms for child custody, alimony, or property division, they must specify this in their response. What happens next really depends on what they file.
There are fees for responses and counter-petitions; however, fee waivers are available if you qualify.
If you have kids, you’ve got to deal with custody and support right away. Broward County has steps in place to protect children during divorce.
Required documents if you have children:
Either parent can request temporary orders if an urgent situation arises. These cover child support, custody, and who will reside in the house until the divorce is finalized.
The court might require mediation before any hearings. Mediators help parents resolve issues without a full trial.
Both parents have to take mandatory parenting classes within 45 days of filing. You’ll need proof before the final hearing.
If there’s domestic violence or child endangerment, the court can issue emergency orders for protection right away.
If your spouse doesn’t respond in 20 days, you can ask for a default divorce. That lets your case move forward without them.
Default steps:
The judge reviews your requests from the original petition. They usually grant reasonable things but might deny anything that seems unfair or excessive.
Even in default cases, you still have to provide:
After filing for divorce, what are the next steps, including getting ready for your final hearing, even if your spouse never shows up.
Default divorces typically proceed more quickly, usually within 4-6 weeks after the response deadline. Still, you have to prove your case to the judge.
Uncertain about Florida’s divorce forms or courthouse procedures? Levine Family Law simplifies the process for clients in Fort Lauderdale. Contact us to receive personalized guidance now.
If you’re ready to get started, call us now!
You can represent yourself in divorce court; whether you should, however, depends on how complicated your situation is and how comfortable you are with legal matters.
If your case is simple—no children, no significant assets—DIY might be a viable option. But if things get messy, a lawyer can save you a lot of grief.
Pros of Self-Representation:
Cons of Self-Representation:
DIY divorce works best when both sides agree on everything. If you’re on the same page, it’s the fastest and cheapest route.
Child Custody Cases: Child custody matters are among the most complex aspects of divorce. Courts consider factors such as parental fitness, the child’s best interests, and living arrangements.
An attorney really matters when you’re dealing with:
Property Division: Complex asset division calls for legal expertise. Property matters hinge on the length of marriage, the amount of debt, and the reason for the debt.
It’s smart to hire an attorney for cases involving:
Alimony Disputes: Calculating Spousal Support Can Become Complicated Courts review an individual’s earning capacity, the duration of their marriage, and their financial needs.
Professional help becomes crucial if you face:
Levine Family Law provides comprehensive divorce services to residents of Broward County.
Their team handles everything from uncontested divorces to tricky litigation at the Broward County Courthouse.
Services Include:
The firm offers consultation services to individuals considering self-representation. Attorneys can advise you on rights and court steps without taking over your whole case.
This hybrid approach enables clients to handle simple tasks independently while still receiving professional guidance for more complex issues.
Many people start with consultations and then decide whether they want full representation as the process progresses.
Levine Family Law is familiar with Broward County’s unique filing requirements and court procedures. Their experience with local judges and staff can help your case.
Filing for divorce requires specific documents and payment. Bringing the correct paperwork and ID helps you avoid delays and makes the process smoother at the courthouse.
| Item | Purpose | Details & Tips |
| Driver’s License or Photo ID | Confirms your identity when filing | Must be unexpired; matches name on divorce petition; bring original, not a copy |
| Marriage Certificate | Prove your legal marriage to establish jurisdiction | Original or certified copy only; both spouses’ names and marriage date must match the forms |
| Completed Court Forms | Required for the official filing of your case | Includes Petition, Summons, Financial Affidavit; print clearly, sign all sections, make extra copies |
| Financial Documents | Needed for support, property division, and full disclosure | Tax returns, pay stubs, bank/investment statements, property deeds, loan info—cover past 2–3 years |
| Cash or Payment Method | Required to pay the court filing fee (~$408) | Bring cash, money order, cashier’s check, or credit card; personal checks not accepted |
| Optional: Fee Waiver Request | For low-income individuals who cannot afford filing fees | Ask the clerk for the application form; approval is required before fees can be waived |
Bring extra cash for copies or other court services. Sometimes you need additional documents or services the same day.
If you can’t afford filing fees, ask about fee waivers. Low-income folks sometimes qualify for reduced or waived costs.
Filing for divorce in Broward County means knowing the court process and local filing rules.
Levine Family Law specializes in Fort Lauderdale divorce cases, providing clients with personalized legal assistance to navigate the process efficiently.
Divorce comes with lots of forms, deadlines, and court requirements that can overwhelm you if you haven’t done this before. Meeting with an experienced attorney brings clarity and helps you identify potential problems before they arise.
During your first meeting, you’ll receive guidance on the forms you need for your specific situation. The attorney reviews your financial documents, custody concerns, and property division issues that could affect your filing.
Scott A. Levine’s practice handles a wide range of family law matters, including high-net-worth divorces, prenuptial agreements, and complex custody arrangements. This experience helps clients see their options and make confident decisions.
Professional legal support cuts down on filing mistakes that might delay your case or cost you more money. Plenty of people try to handle divorce alone, but run into trouble with paperwork or missed court deadlines.
Local attorneys know the ins and outs of Broward County family court judges. This really matters when preparing documents and making your case.
Every courthouse has its own way of doing things—filing requirements, scheduling, document formats. Family law attorneys familiar with Broward County processes are well-versed in navigating these local quirks.
Experienced Florida divorce lawyers build relationships with court staff and understand the timing for different motions. They know which judges favor specific strategies and how to present your case well.
Filing for divorce in Broward County isn’t exactly a walk in the park. You need to prepare carefully and pay close attention to each detail.
The process involves several steps, and missing one can result in annoying delays. It pays to know what you’re getting into.
Key Requirements Include:
The whole thing goes smoother if you gather all your documents up front. Financial records, property details, and any information related to children should be prepared before you begin.
The Unified Family Court in the Central Courthouse handles every divorce case in the county. That’s where they process petitions for dissolution of marriage and other family law issues.
How long does it all take? It depends. Uncontested divorces usually move quickly, while cases with kids or lots of assets can drag on.
If things become complicated, a lawyer who is familiar with Broward County’s divorce process can make a significant difference. Plenty of attorneys focus on local family law and know the court’s ins and outs.
The court system provides resources and forms to assist individuals in navigating their cases. It might not be easy, but having the correct info makes a huge difference.
Don’t risk filing delays or legal errors. Let Levine Family Law help you take the next step with clarity—schedule your Broward County divorce review today. Contact us.
Where do I file for divorce in Broward County?
You file for divorce at the Broward County Courthouse, located at 201 SE 6th Street, Fort Lauderdale, FL. You can also file electronically via the Florida eFiling Portal.
What forms do I need to start a divorce in Broward County?
You’ll typically need a Petition for Dissolution of Marriage, a Family Law Financial Affidavit, a Summons, and a Notice of Social Security Number.
How much does it cost to file for divorce in Broward County?
The filing fee is approximately $409, not including fees for service of process, certified copies, or optional filings. Fee waivers may be available for qualifying individuals.
Can I file for divorce in Broward County without a lawyer?
Yes, but self-representation can be risky—especially in cases involving children, assets, or alimony. Legal guidance helps avoid costly mistakes or delays.
Do I have to serve my spouse after filing for divorce?
Yes. Florida law requires you to formally serve your spouse with divorce papers unless they waive service. Service can be done by a sheriff or a private process server.
What if my spouse doesn’t respond to the divorce papers?
If your spouse fails to respond within 20 days, you may request a default judgment, allowing the case to proceed without their participation.
Can I file for divorce online in Broward County?
Yes, you can use Florida’s statewide eFiling Portal to submit divorce forms electronically. However, you must still meet all documentation and procedural requirements.
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