Last Updated on February 13, 2026
Dade County Divorce Court Information
| Information | Details |
|---|---|
| Location for Divorce Filing | Miami-Dade Family Court, Lawson E. Thomas Courthouse Center, 175 NW 1st Ave, Miami, FL 33128 |
| Contact Number | (305) 349-7800 |
| Operating Hours | Monday through Friday, 9 AM to 4 PM |
| Parking Information | Limited parking available; nearby public parking garages may fill quickly |
| Security Checkpoint | Metal detector screening required; minimize carrying metal objects |
| General Advice | Arrive early to secure parking and allow for a more relaxed processing experience |
Eligibility and Dade County Requirements
In Dade County, to file for divorce, one spouse must reside in Florida for at least six months. The typical reason for divorce is that the marriage is “irretrievably broken,” requiring no proof of wrongdoing and simplifying the process.
The 6-Month Residency Rule in Dade County
In Dade County, to file for divorce, at least one spouse must have lived there for six months to establish court jurisdiction. If one spouse lives elsewhere, the petition should be filed in their county unless both agree on Dade. If a spouse is out of state, filing in Dade is possible if residency requirements are met. The petitioner must provide documentation to prove residency and compliance with local laws.
How to File for Divorce in Dade County: Step-by-Step
Going through divorce in Dade County may seem intimidating, but understanding the legal framework simplifies it. This guide covers transitioning smoothly from preparation to filing, starting with gathering necessary documents and knowing your responsibilities. The process officially begins with filing through the Clerk of Superior Court.
Step 1: Preparing Essential Documents
To start a divorce in Dade, you need to file the Petition, Summons, DRFA (Domestic Relations Financial Affidavit), and Verification. The Petition outlines the reasons for the divorce and your desired outcomes regarding property, children, and support. The Summons informs the other party about the divorce and their obligation to respond. The DRFA details each party’s finances, requiring extensive documentation for fairness. Notarizing certain forms is essential to verify identities and the document’s authenticity. Properly completing and notarizing these forms is very important for a smooth and equitable divorce process.
Get Started Now Create a free account to check your eligibility for divorce. Preparing legal forms is never easy, but we can help you on every step of the process. |
Step 2: Filing Fees and Electronic Filing (eFile)
In Dade County, filing for divorce requires a $220 fee through the eFileGA system, which allows electronic document submission for convenience. Courthouse kiosks offer access to essential technology if needed. If the fee is unaffordable, you may submit a Pauper’s Affidavit requesting a reduction or waiver, but be prepared to disclose detailed financial information.
Step 3: Service of Process
For $50, a Sheriff serves your spouse with divorce papers, providing formal but possibly confrontational notice. the Acknowledgment of Service involves your spouse voluntarily signing to confirm receipt, ideal for amicable, uncontested divorces. This approach reduces stress and expedites the process by avoiding complications like searching for an elusive spouse.
Requirements for Parents: The Parenting Seminar
The Going through Family Change course in Dade County is a mandatory seminar for families in transition, designed to help parents manage changes and prioritize their children’s well-being. Participants must complete the course within 30 days of the court order, with a fee of $50. Failing to file the completion certificate will delay legal proceedings, so signing up promptly is advised.
Finalizing Your Case in Dade County
In Dade County, finalizing an uncontested case requires a mandatory 31-day waiting period after filing to ensure all documents are correctly submitted. If a case doesn’t settle, court-ordered mediation tries to resolve disputes with a neutral third party. Failing that, the case may go to trial, where the court decides.
Jay Riley has spent 8+ years researching U.S. divorce procedures, court filing requirements, and state-specific family law processes. Content is based on Georgia law, including publicly available statutes, Superior Court divorce procedures, and official court resources.
