Waiting Period
A waiting period is the minimum time that must pass before a divorce can be finalized. In Florida, the law requires at least 20 days between the date the dissolution petition is filed and the date the court may enter a final judgment, though a judge can waive this if waiting would cause injustice. Uncontested cases where both spouses agree often resolve shortly after the 20-day mark, but more complex cases can take longer.
Last updated June 21, 2026
Legal Definition
The statutory minimum interval before a Florida court may grant a dissolution of marriage—no final judgment until at least 20 days after the petition is filed, absent a finding of injustice in delay, under F.S. §61.19.
Example
Because their uncontested case was fully agreed, the only real holdup was Florida's 20-day waiting period before the judge could sign the final judgment.
Related Statutes
- 61.19
Related Terms
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