How to File for Divorce in Florida

Introduction

The divorce filing process in Florida can take just 30 days. The process might seem daunting at first, but your situation could make it simpler than you expect.

Getting divorced is without doubt one of life's toughest challenges. The emotional toll and legal complexities can be overwhelming. Florida law provides two options: simplified dissolution of marriage and regular dissolution of marriage. Couples who agree on all terms can choose the simplified option for a faster resolution through an uncontested divorce.

Your Florida divorce journey starts with meeting basic requirements. You or your spouse must have lived in the state for six months before filing. The law requires mandatory financial disclosures within 45 days. The process can save you thousands in legal fees if you decide to file without an attorney.

This complete guide will take you through every step from the original paperwork to your final hearing. We'll help guide you with clarity and confidence during this challenging time.

Understand the Types of Divorce in Florida

Florida's divorce laws provide multiple ways to end a marriage. The right option depends on your specific situation.

Simplified vs. Regular Dissolution of Marriage

The state of Florida has two legal procedures to end a marriage: simplified dissolution and regular dissolution of marriage. The simplified option is an optimized process that works best for couples with minimal complications. Regular dissolution applies to all marriages, especially when you have children, substantial assets, or disagreements between spouses.

Regular dissolution starts after one spouse (the petitioner) files a petition stating the marriage is irretrievably broken. The other spouse (respondent) needs to respond within 20 days. Both parties must share financial information and submit financial affidavits. Your county might require mediation.

When to choose an uncontested divorce

An uncontested divorce works best if both spouses agree on ending the marriage and its terms. This path comes with several benefits:

• Quick resolution - can be completed in as little as 30 days, while contested divorces take months

• Costs are nowhere near those of contested proceedings

• Less emotional strain and conflict

• Limited court involvement with just one short hearing needed

Florida courts usually finalize uncontested divorces in four to eight weeks based on their schedules. But this option might not work in cases with disputes about children, finances, or property division.

Eligibility for simplified divorce

A simplified dissolution of marriage in Florida requires these conditions:

1. Both spouses must agree to use the simplified process

2. No minor or dependent children from the marriage

3. No adopted children under 18

4. Wife is not pregnant

5. One spouse's Florida residency must be at least six months

6. Both agree on dividing assets and debts

7. Neither spouse wants alimony

8. Both parties agree the marriage cannot be saved

9. Both spouses give up their right to trial and appeal

10. Both must attend the final hearing together

You can prove residency with a Florida driver's license, voter registration card issued six months before filing, witness testimony, or an affidavit. Legal guidance can help ensure proper document filing and protect your rights, even though attorneys aren't required for simplified dissolution.

The simplified process still needs specific procedures, including proper form filing with the clerk's office and payment of filing fees.

Step-by-Step Guide to Filing for Divorce

Filing for divorce needs specific legal steps. Here's a clear roadmap to help you through the Florida divorce process:

Step 1: Meet the residency requirement

You or your spouse must live in Florida for at least six months before filing. The court accepts several proofs of residency: a Florida driver's license, voter registration card, signed lease, or documentation of permanent Florida employment. Your residency status needs court verification before the case moves forward.

Step 2: File the petition for dissolution

The next step requires submitting your Petition for Dissolution of Marriage form to your local circuit court clerk. Florida provides different petition types based on your circumstances: with dependent children, with property but no children, or simplified dissolution. The clerk will assign a case number. You must pay the filing fee unless you qualify for a waiver.

Step 3: Serve your spouse and await response

Your spouse needs formal notification through service of process. Florida law doesn't allow spouses to serve their partners directly. The county sheriff or a certified private process server must handle this task. Your spouse has 20 days to respond after being served. You can request a default judgment if they don't respond.

Step 4: Submit financial and parenting documents

Both parties must complete mandatory financial disclosure within 45 days of serving your spouse. This step requires a Financial Affidavit, three years of tax returns, pay stubs, bank statements, and other financial records. Parents need additional paperwork, including a Uniform Child Custody Jurisdiction Enforcement Act Affidavit.

Step 5: Attend mediation if required

Florida courts often require mediation before trial. A neutral third party helps couples reach agreements on disputed issues. This approach costs less than a trial and often leads to settlements that work for both parties.

Step 6: Final hearing and judge's approval

The final step brings you to a hearing where the judge reviews your documents and ensures your divorce terms are fair and legal. Uncontested divorces usually wrap up in 10-15 minutes. The judge's signature on the final judgment officially ends your marriage and sets your divorce terms.

Important Forms and Legal Documents

Your Florida divorce process will run smoothly with the right paperwork. The right forms filed at the right time can save you from frustrating delays.

Family Law Financial Affidavit

The Family Law Financial Affidavit is the life-blood of Florida divorce proceedings. Both parties must submit this form to show their complete financial picture to the court. You can choose between two versions:

• Short Form (12.902(b)) - If you have gross annual income under $50,000

• Long Form (12.902(c)) - If you earn $50,000 or more annually

You must file this document within 45 days of the original petition. It has details about your income, expenses, assets, and liabilities.

Parenting Plan and Child Support Worksheet

Divorces with children require a Parenting Plan (Form 12.995). This vital document spells out custody arrangements, visitation schedules, and each parent's responsibilities.

The Child Support Guidelines Worksheet (Form 12.902(e)) must accompany your plan. This calculator helps determine proper child support based on both parents' incomes and how many children you have. Florida courts strictly follow these statutory guidelines.

Certificate of Compliance with Mandatory Disclosure

You need to file a Certificate of Compliance with Mandatory Disclosure (Form 12.932) within 45 days of serving your divorce petition. This document shows you've given all required financial information to your spouse.

The certificate proves you've exchanged documents with your spouse - not that you've filed them with the court. Your Financial Affidavit and Child Support Worksheet are usually the only financial documents the court needs.

Final Judgment of Dissolution of Marriage

A judge's signature on the Final Judgment (Form 12.990) ends your marriage legally. This document contains all court orders about:

• Division of marital property and debts

• Child custody and support arrangements

• Alimony determinations (if applicable)

• Name changes (if requested)

Your specific situation, such as having children or substantial assets, determines which version you'll use.

What Happens After the Divorce is Finalized

Your divorce finalization marks the start of a new chapter that comes with key tasks and responsibilities. You'll need to get official records, update your documents, and stay on top of your ongoing obligations.

Getting dissolution of marriage records in Florida

The Florida Bureau of Vital Statistics keeps dissolution records dating back to June 6, 1927. You'll need these official documents for several purposes, and here's how you can get them:

• Order online: VitalChek serves as the only contracted vendor for Florida's Bureau of Vital Statistics. The cost is $15.00 for your first certificate plus a $7.00 processing fee.

• Visit in person: Head to the Bureau's Jacksonville office at 1217 N Pearl Street on weekdays between 8:00 a.m. and 4:30 p.m..

• Request by mail: Mail your application with the right payment to the Florida Bureau of Vital Statistics.

Records from 1970 to present typically take 3-5 business days to process, but older records need more time. You can speed up the process by marking your envelope "RUSH" and adding a $10.00 fee.

Updating legal documents and accounts

Start updating your personal information right after your divorce. Change your name with the Social Security Administration first if needed - this will make it easier to update your driver's license and vehicle registration. Then look at all documents where your ex-spouse appears as an emergency contact.

Your top priority should be reviewing beneficiary designations on your:

• Insurance policies

• Retirement accounts

• Financial investments

• Estate planning documents

These updates are crucial since overlooking them could lead to serious issues down the road.

Understanding post-divorce obligations

Your final judgment, parenting plan, and marital settlement agreement spell out all your post-divorce duties. The court expects you to follow these orders strictly - any failure to meet your obligations could result in fines or even loss of custody privileges.

Life changes happen, and Florida law lets you modify post-divorce arrangements when significant changes occur. These changes might affect your child custody setup, child support, or spousal support.

Keep your records organized and stay on top of all legal requirements. This approach will give a smoother transition into your post-divorce life.

Conclusion

The divorce process in Florida involves multiple legal steps that you need to think about. This piece walks you through everything from residency requirements to getting your final dissolution records. The most important thing is to understand the difference between simplified and regular dissolution options. This knowledge helps you pick the best path for your situation.

Starting a divorce is without doubt one of life's toughest transitions. But when you prepare well and know what documents you need, you can face this process more confidently. It also helps to know what happens after your divorce is final. You'll need to update beneficiary designations and understand your ongoing obligations as you begin life's next chapter.

Your divorce case is different based on your specific situation. A smoother process depends on good record keeping and meeting all court requirements. The divorce proceedings might feel overwhelming at first. Breaking them down into smaller steps makes this experience easier to handle.

You might want to ask a qualified Florida family law attorney especially when you have children or significant assets. Their guidance can protect your rights throughout the process. Whatever dissolution path you choose, staying informed about your legal obligations during and after divorce will help you move forward with clarity and peace of mind.