What Do I Need to Know Before Filing for Divorce in Florida?

Fulfilling State Requirements

In Florida, filing for divorce can be a complicated process. You need to know a number of things before you file, including the specific filing requirements and what paperwork is necessary. In this blog, learn the most important things you need to know before filing for divorce in Florida.

Florida Filing Requirements

To file for divorce, you must meet Florida's residency requirements. You or your spouse must have lived in Florida for at least six months before filing. You will also need to file in the county where your spouse lives.

If you and your spouse have minor children, additional requirements must be met before you can file for divorce. First, you must complete a parenting course and submit the certificate of completion to the court. This course is designed to help parents learn how to co-parent after divorce and covers effective communication and conflict resolution topics.

Necessary Paperwork

When you file for divorce in Florida, several documents must be submitted to the court. These include a Petition for Dissolution of Marriage, a Financial Affidavit, and a Marital Settlement Agreement.

The Petition for Dissolution of Marriage is the document that starts the divorce process. It must be filed with the court and then served on your spouse. The petition includes information such as your name, spouse's name, and children's names and ages.

The Financial Affidavit is a document that provides financial information about you and your spouse. This information includes income, assets, debts, and expenses and is used by the court to make decisions about things like alimony and child support.

The Marital Settlement Agreement names the terms of your divorce agreement. This is only submitted if you and your spouse can agree on the issues that need to be resolved in your divorce. This can include property division, child custody and visitation, alimony, and child support. Then, the Marital Settlement Agreement is filed with the court and becomes a part of the divorce judgment.

Get Help from a Divorce Attorney

Filing for divorce in Florida is often complex. If you need assistance with this process, turn to the divorce team at Schipani, Norman & McLain, P.A. We will tirelessly protect your rights and defend your best interests throughout the divorce process.

Learn more about our firm or schedule a consultation with a member of our family law team by calling (941) 499-8154 or by visiting our website.