What it Takes to File for Divorce in Florida

Filing for divorce in Florida involves specific steps and requirements:

1. Residency Requirement: At least one spouse must have resided in Florida for a minimum of six months before filing for divorce. Proof of residency is essential to proceed with the divorce process [3], [5], [6].
2. Filing the Petition: The divorce process begins with one spouse filing a petition for dissolution of marriage. This document outlines the grounds for divorce and any claims for relief, such as property division, alimony, child custody, and support [1].
3. Serving the Petition: After filing the petition, the other spouse must be served with the document, informing them of the divorce proceedings [4].
4. Answering the Petition: The served spouse must respond to the petition, agreeing or disagreeing with the claims made by the filing spouse [1].
5. Divorce Discovery Process: Both parties may engage in a discovery process to gather additional information relevant to the divorce case, such as financial documents and other pertinent records [1].
6. Simplified Dissolution of Marriage: Florida offers a “Simplified Dissolution of Marriage” for couples seeking a quicker divorce process, which can be completed in about 30 days. This is generally suitable for couples without significant assets or children [2].
7. Finalizing the Divorce: The divorce is finalized when the court issues a final judgment, which officially dissolves the marriage and addresses all issues related to the divorce.

🌐 Sources

• goldenkeylawgroup.com – 7 Steps In A Divorce: Getting A Divorce In Florida
• stateofflorida.com – Filing for Divorce without an Attorney
• forbes.com – How To File For Divorce In Florida (2023 Guide)
• sessumslawgroup.com – Step by Step: The Process of Filing for a Divorce in Florida
• myfloridafamilyattorney.com – Obtaining a Divorce in Florida – Legal Requirements
• divorceinfloridaonline.com – How Do I File for Divorce in Florida?