{"id":3912,"date":"2024-03-28T06:29:02","date_gmt":"2024-03-28T06:29:02","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/figueroalawgroup.com\/?p=3912"},"modified":"2024-03-29T06:35:38","modified_gmt":"2024-03-29T06:35:38","slug":"preparing-for-divorce-in-florida","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/figueroalawgroup.com\/preparing-for-divorce-in-florida\/","title":{"rendered":"What Are The Florida Divorce Laws: Things to Know Before Making the Break Up Official"},"content":{"rendered":"<h2><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Confused by Florida divorce laws? We bring clarity and peace of mind.<\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">When the knots of marriage begin to unravel, where can you turn? Under <\/span><b>Florida <\/b><a href=\"https:\/\/figueroalawgroup.com\/family-law\/divorce\/\"><b>divorce laws<\/b><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, the pathway to officially ending a marriage is forged with legalities that can perplex the most logical minds. Are you aware of the many hoops you must jump through to dissolve your marriage in Florida? The need for an<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/figueroalawgroup.com\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> experienced attorney<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> with a deep understanding of these laws becomes clear as every unique situation presents challenges and requirements.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><b>Quick Summary:<\/b><\/h3>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Eligibility for Divorce in Florida<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: To file for divorce in Florida, one partner must have lived in Florida for at least six months. A &#8216;Petition for Dissolution of Marriage&#8217; is required, and the non-filing spouse has 20 days to respond.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Types of Divorce<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: Florida recognizes contested and uncontested divorces. A simplified dissolution is available if both parties agree on key issues and no children are involved.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Grounds for Divorce<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: Divorce can proceed on the grounds of an irretrievable breakdown of the marriage or a spouse&#8217;s mental incapacity for three years.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Property Division<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: Florida follows equitable distribution, focusing on fairness rather than equality and considering contributions to marriage and economic circumstances.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Alimony<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: Types of alimony include bridge-the-gap, rehabilitative, permanent, and durational, determined by factors like marriage length, living standard during the marriage, and each spouse&#8217;s financial status.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Annulment<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: Florida allows annulments under specific conditions, such as lack of guardian consent for underage individuals, marriages achieved under deceit, or incapacity of partners.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Child Custody and Support<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: Florida promotes shared parental responsibility and has detailed guidelines for child support, focusing on the child&#8217;s well-being after divorce.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Need for a Lawyer<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: An experienced Florida divorce lawyer ensures proper representation, navigates through complex laws, and reduces stress by managing legal proceedings on your behalf.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Are You Eligible for a Divorce in Florida?<\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The journey to getting a divorce in Florida begins with meeting specific eligibility criteria:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">One partner must have lived in Florida for at least six months before filing.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">A &#8216;Petition for Dissolution of Marriage&#8217; is required to initiate the process in your local circuit court.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The spouse not filing must be made aware and given 20 days to respond.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Understanding whether you are eligible for divorce is the first critical step under <\/span><b>Florida divorce laws<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">What Happens If Your Spouse Does Not Respond?<\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">If there is no response within 20 days:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The filing spouse can move for default by visiting the court clerk and completing the necessary forms.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">A final hearing will be scheduled.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The non-responding spouse receives a &#8216;Notice of Hearing&#8217; for the divorce.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Dealing with a non-responsive spouse can complicate matters, making legal advice imperative.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">What Types of Divorces Are Recognized in Florida?<\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The dissolution of marriage in Florida can unfold in different ways:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Contested Divorce:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> If the respondent disagrees with the divorce terms, the case may become contested, requiring further legal proceedings.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Uncontested Divorce:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> When both parties agree, the divorce is uncontested, often involving less complication.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Acknowledging the type of divorce you are dealing with helps determine the complexity of the process.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">What Is Simplified Dissolution?<\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">A &#8216;Simplified Dissolution&#8217; might be possible if:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Both partners agree the marriage cannot be repaired.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">There are no children or dependents involved.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Agreements regarding property and debt division are reached.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Neither party seeks<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/figueroalawgroup.com\/family-law\/alimony\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> alimony.<\/span><\/a><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Financial disclosures are unwarranted beyond financial affidavits.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Rights to trial and appeal are waived, and both partners willingly attend the hearing.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">For those fitting this criterion, a simplified dissolution is a more straightforward, usually quicker process.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">What Terms Should You Consider in Your Divorce?<\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Considerations when filling out your divorce petition should include:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Status changes, such as reverting to a maiden name.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">A Marital Settlement Agreement filing can speed up the process if children are involved.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Identifying your needs and objectives early on is vital under <\/span><b>Florida divorce laws<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">What Grounds are Required for Divorce According to Florida Divorce Laws?<\/span><\/h2>\n<p><b>Florida divorce laws<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> recognize two grounds:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Irretrievable breakdown of the marriage.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Mental incapacity of a spouse for three years or more.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Understanding the acceptable grounds in Florida is vital for aligning your situation with the legal requirements.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">How Does Property Division Work Under Florida Divorce Laws?<\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The state adopts equitable distribution, where fairness, rather than equality, is paramount:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Contributions to the marriage by each spouse.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Economic circumstances and marriage duration.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Each partner&#8217;s influence on the other&#8217;s career or education.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Maintaining any business or marital home intact from a claim by the other spouse.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Intentional dissipation of assets after the divorce filing.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The fairness of the distribution is the focus, which can be quite complex and often subjective.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">What Should You Know About Alimony in Florida?<\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Alimony can be seen as financial support from one spouse to another and is categorized as follows:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Bridge-the-Gap:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> Assists with short-term needs up to two years.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Rehabilitative:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> Helps the receiving spouse become self-sufficient by developing skills.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Permanent:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> For long-term support, typically after a lengthy marriage.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Durational:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> Awards assistance for a set period after a shorter marriage.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Alimony determination involves considering the duration of the marriage, standard of living, both partners&#8217; health and financial conditions, and the contributions made during the marriage.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">How to Approach Annulment in Florida?<\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">An annulment dissolves a marriage based on certain conditions, such as:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Underage without guardian consent.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Influence of drugs or lack of consent capacity.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Marriage is obtained through illegal means such as deceit or force.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Physical or mental incapacity to consummate or maintain the marriage.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Annulment is distinct from divorce and involves different legal implications and requirements.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">What If Children Are Involved?<\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Divorce with children brings additional layers of complexity, including:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Determining<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/figueroalawgroup.com\/family-law\/custody\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> child custody<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> arrangements and support.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Ensuring both parents maintain responsibilities towards their children post-divorce.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The welfare of children is a primary concern under <\/span><b>Florida divorce laws<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">What You Need to Know About Florida Child Custody &amp; Child Support Laws<\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Florida has shifted away from the traditional terms of &#8216;custody&#8217; and &#8216;visitation,&#8217; now using &#8216;parental responsibility&#8217; and &#8216;timesharing.&#8217;<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Florida Child Custody Laws<\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The courts use parenting plans to establish guidelines for family law cases involving children. Here are some critical facts:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Parental Responsibility and Timesharing<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: These terms refer to decision-making authority and scheduling time with children.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Shared Parental Responsibility:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> Preferred by courts unless it&#8217;s detrimental to the child&#8217;s interests.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Sole Parental Responsibility<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: Granted only if shared responsibility harms the child.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Recent Legislative Changes:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> As of July 1, 2023, new laws presume equal 50\/50 timesharing for parents and have altered how parenting plans are modified.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Florida Child Support Laws<\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Child support calculations consider various factors detailed in the Child Support Guidelines Worksheets. The factors include:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Both parents&#8217; net income.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Number of children involved.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Health insurance and childcare expenses.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Special needs of the children.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Why Do I Need an Experienced Florida Divorce Lawyer?<\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Facing a divorce can be a complicated and emotional process. The support and guidance of an experienced Florida divorce lawyer can be invaluable in ensuring a fair and satisfactory outcome. Here are three reasons why:<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><b>Understanding of Florida Divorce Law<\/b><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">An attorney well-versed in Florida divorce law can help you navigate the intricacies of the legal process, accurately interpret complex regulatory language, and prevent potential missteps.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><b>Effective Representation<\/b><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">A lawyer&#8217;s primary job is to represent your interests. They can provide qualified advice on property division, alimony, and child custody, ensuring your rights are protected.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><b>Reducing Stress<\/b><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The skills of a found attorney translate to less stress for you. They handle all the necessary paperwork, court appearances, and negotiations, leaving you to focus on your personal well-being and the next chapter of your life.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Need Help Understanding More about Divorce Florida Laws? Call Us Now!<\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Facing the challenges of divorce can feel overwhelming, bringing a wave of questions and uncertainties about the future. At Figueroa Law Group, PA, we are prepared to provide comprehensive support during these trying times. With over 75 collective years of experience in family law, our attorneys are well-equipped to handle even the most complex cases with care, passion, and dedication.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Beyond divorce, our firm offers assistance in <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/figueroalawgroup.com\/family-law\/child-custody-enforcement\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">child custody<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/figueroalawgroup.com\/family-law\/parenting-plans-child-support\/child-support-enforcement\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">child support<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/figueroalawgroup.com\/family-law\/alimony\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">alimony<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, and more, ensuring a holistic approach to your family&#8217;s legal needs. Our commitment to achieving positive results is unmatched as we tirelessly work to secure the best possible outcome for you and your loved ones. Don&#8217;t let the stress of legal proceedings weigh you down. Contact us today and let our dedicated team guide you to a brighter future.<\/span><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Confused by Florida divorce laws? We bring clarity and peace of mind. When the knots of marriage begin to unravel, where can you turn? Under Florida divorce laws, the pathway to officially ending a marriage is forged with legalities that can perplex the most logical minds. Are you aware of the many hoops you must [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":3914,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[8],"tags":[],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/figueroalawgroup.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/3912"}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/figueroalawgroup.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/figueroalawgroup.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/figueroalawgroup.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/figueroalawgroup.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=3912"}],"version-history":[{"count":1,"href":"https:\/\/figueroalawgroup.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/3912\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":3913,"href":"https:\/\/figueroalawgroup.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/3912\/revisions\/3913"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/figueroalawgroup.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/3914"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/figueroalawgroup.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=3912"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/figueroalawgroup.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=3912"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/figueroalawgroup.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=3912"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}