Are you considering a divorce and not sure where to start? The divorce process can be stressful in and of itself, so it is essential that you understand what to expect. If you are well-
informed about the divorce process, you will be able to plan more effectively, which will allow things to move along more smoothly. This blog will address several of the frequently asked questions about filing for a divorce in Florida including the cost, how long it will take, requirements, and more.
How Much Does Divorce Cost in Florida?
The cost of divorce in Florida will vary depending on if you are filing for a contested divorce or an uncontested divorce. One thing for sure is the filing fee, which will likely be around $400 depending on the county you are filing in. Now, if you file for an uncontested divorce, then there won’t be a ton of extra legal fees beyond this. However, a contested divorce can end up being very expensive depending on how long it takes and what the attorney hourly rates look like.
It is important to note that it is possible to obtain a waiver for the filing fee and other court fees if low-income is a factor.
Can You File for Divorce for Free in Florida?
You won’t be able to get divorced for free in Florida unless a waiver is approved to eliminate the filing fees. However, in most cases, the filing fee is required and oftentimes legal representation is essential. This makes it nearly impossible to get divorced for free in Florida.
How Long Does a Florida Divorce Take?
The length of the divorce process in Florida will vary depending on each case. There is a 20-day waiting period between the time the divorce paperwork is filed and the final divorce hearing. If the divorce is uncontested, then it might not take much longer than this so long as there isn’t a backlog of cases in the court. Since a contested divorce adds several steps and court hearings to the process, you can expect that it will take much longer to be finalized - perhaps six months or more.
What is a Divorce Decree?
A divorce decree, also called the judgment of dissolution, is the final order that the judge issues in a divorce. It effectively ends the marriage. The decree includes the judge’s final ruling on all the matters, which include:
Child custody (living arrangements, decision-making process, child support, etc.)
Property division (generally Florida courts seek equitable distribution)
Spousal support (decided on a case-by-case basis)
Although a divorce decree marks the official end of the marriage, it is possible to request to modify the decree if circumstances change in the future for either ex-spouse.
What are the Requirements for Divorce in Florida?
Just like every other state, Florida has specific requirements for filing for a divorce there.
Residency Requirements
For a couple to get a divorce in Florida, at least one of the spouses must have lived in the state for six or more months before filing for the divorce. Proof of residency will be required in order for a court to hear the divorce case.
Grounds for Divorce
Florida is a no-fault divorce state, which means that most divorces in Florida are filed based on the grounds that the marriage is “irretrievably broken”. This reason is sufficient for a couple to seek divorce. Neither spouse has to be at fault for anything specific in order to get divorced.
While it’s uncommon, it is also possible to get a divorce on the grounds that the other party is mentally incapacitated. The requirements for this type of divorce include:
The mentally ill party must be classified as such for at least three years before the divorce petition is filed
A court-appointed committee will confirm the claims of the spouse seeking divorce based the grounds of their partner’s mental illness
The spouse filing for divorce must notify the partner’s closest relative or guardian about the divorce
Is a Separation Period Required?
While a separation period might make sense for a couple before seeking divorce, Florida does not require it. A couple can file for divorce before they’ve officially separated from each other.
Parenting Class Requirements
The state of Florida requires divorcing parents to take a court-approved parenting class before the divorce is finalized. Such a requirement seeks to protect the best interests of the children involved in the divorce.
If you have children and are seeking divorce in Florida, then Dr. Liliana Wolf offers a parenting class that will not only meet Florida’s requirements, but it will help you create an effective co-parenting alliance with your ex-spouse. Her class will help you do the following:
Navigate the challenges of the divorce process
Maintain a positive co-parenting alliance
Help your child adjust to the new family structure
Science-based education on family stabilization
Additional benefits of taking Dr. Liliana Wolf’s class over any other include:
Instant certificate to submit to the court
100% online video course
30-day money-back guarantee
4-hour course to watch at your own pace
Guaranteed Florida-court acceptance
Dr. Liliana Wolf is a licensed psychotherapist with 20+ years of experience working with couples and families. She has taken all of that experience and made an affordable and accessible class in order to help couples with children through the divorce process.
Questions about Your Divorce in Florida?
If you are planning to file for divorce in Florida, make sure you secure legal representation to ensure that all your questions are answered and you know what to expect. Feel free to reach out to Dr. Liliana Wolf regarding any questions you have about the parenting class requirement in Florida and what her class offers. Her desire is to provide divorcing parents with science-based education on family stabilization at the most affordable price.
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