The process of divorce can be a complex endeavor. When individuals cannot agree on important factors, the process can become a hassle for everyone involved. Divorce does not have to look like this, though; in fact, you can even complete a simplified divorce to save yourself the money, stress, and time that others lose when going about the process with greater conflict.
To complete a simplified divorce, there are specific criteria you must meet. For couples that can form solid agreements, do not have kids, and do not wish to have continued support, a simplified divorce may be preferable. Additional criteria that must be met are a six-month or longer residency in Florida, with a witness to confirm, and both parties’ completion of a marital settlement agreement.
Below, we will discuss in greater detail how a simplified divorce can save you time, money, and stress. Be sure to contact a legal representative to help you navigate the process if you’re looking to complete a simplified divorce in Florida. Read on to learn more.
Getting A Simplified Divorce In Florida
To complete a simplified divorce in Florida, a few steps must be completed. Firstly, you and your marital partner must meet the eligibility requirements as outlined by Florida’s law for simplified divorce. After confirming the eligibility, you can move on to the secondary steps, which consist of completing forms and filing for a dissolution of marriage in the state.
To file correctly, either you or your spouse must have lived as a resident in Florida for at least six months. Providing proof of this residence is essential to move forward with your simplified divorce in Florida. After completing the forms, you and your spouse are to sign along with the clerk representing the circuit court in the county where you or your spouse lives.
Filing Correctly: Paperwork And Proper Identification
Both parties must complete a marital settlement agreement, outlining how assets and debts are divided. Both parties complete this form, prompted by the confirmations and documentation of the division of financial resources and assets. Beyond these objectives, you must have proper identification to file for your simplified divorce in Florida. This includes a state-issued photo ID, such as your license, and a witness with their valid ID (or a notarized certificate of your corroborating witness) if they cannot attend in person.
Signing The Petition And Receiving Your Hearing Date
Both you and your spouse must go to have the clerk sign the marriage petition. You do not have to go at the same time. Once you’ve filed, the court can issue a court date to have the final hearing for your simplified divorce, which is typically one month later.
Contacting A Lawyer For Best Results
Even though the process for simplified divorce in Florida is straightforward, it still requires the involvement of qualified divorce attorneys. In Florida, having a lawyer to protect your rights and ensure the correct completion of paperwork can be integral. Contact a lawyer for the best possible results.