What Is a Simplified Dissolution of Marriage?

What is a Simplified Dissolution of Marriage?

Two spouses who agree on everything can use a simplified dissolution of marriage. It is Florida's fastest and simplest divorce. It is meant for couples with no minor or dependent children together, no pregnancy, an agreed split of property and debts, and no alimony claim. Alimony is support money that one spouse pays the other. Both spouses sign one joint petition and attend one short final hearing.

The process comes from Rule 12.105 of the Florida Family Law Rules of Procedure, current as of October 2026. Under that rule, both spouses must certify under oath that they have no minor or dependent children together, the wife has no minor or dependent children born during the marriage, and the wife is not pregnant. They must also certify that they have "made a satisfactory division of their property" and agreed on how to pay their joint debts.

The petition is Florida Supreme Court Approved Family Law Form 12.901(a), the Petition for Simplified Dissolution of Marriage. Under Rule 12.105(d), the clerk or family law intake staff must give you the forms and help you prepare them.

Who can use a simplified dissolution in Florida?

You can use it only if every condition below fits your case. If even one does not, you need a regular dissolution of marriage instead.

• Residency: You or your spouse has lived in Florida for at least 6 months before filing (§ 61.021, Florida Statutes).
• Agreement: You both agree the marriage cannot be saved.
• Children: You have no minor or dependent children together, and the wife is not pregnant.
• Property and debts: You have already agreed how to divide what you own and what you owe.
• Alimony: Neither of you is asking for alimony.
• Trial and appeal: You both give up your right to a trial and to an appeal, which is asking a higher court to review the judge's decision.
• Signing: You both sign the petition, often in person at the clerk's office.
• Final hearing: You both attend the final hearing. Rule 12.105(b) says the parties "shall appear before the court in every case."

Warning: In Flagler County, the clerk warns that if either spouse misses the final hearing, the case may be dismissed. Plan for both of you to be there.

How much does it cost and how long does it take?

The main cost is the clerk's filing fee, about $408 as of October 2026. The Flagler County Clerk of Court lists the simplified dissolution filing fee as $408, and it is non-refundable. Some counties add small extra charges, so check with your county clerk before you file.

Timing depends on the judge's calendar. Under § 61.19, Florida Statutes, a judge cannot enter a final judgment until at least 20 days after the petition is filed, unless waiting would cause injustice. The Flagler County clerk says the process typically takes 30 to 90 days.

To start, follow these steps.

1. Confirm you meet every requirement in the list above.
2. Get Form 12.901(a) and the other forms from your county clerk or the Florida Courts website.
3. Sign the petition together and file it with the clerk in your county.
4. Pay the filing fee, or ask the clerk about applying for a fee waiver if you cannot afford it.
5. Attend the final hearing together, and bring ID.

Tip: Clerks commonly also ask for a Marital Settlement Agreement (Form 12.902(f)(3)), a financial affidavit, and a Notice of Social Security Number (Form 12.902(j)). Ask your clerk for the full packet for your county.