While every divorce is different from the next, there are fundamental and legal similarities in every situation. Details may differ, but the process remains the same. The state of Florida, a no-fault state, means that either party may seek divorce without providing any significant reasons for doing so. If you or your spouse feels as though the marriage is irreversibly and irretrievably broken beyond measure, all it takes is following a few simple steps for the divorce process to shortly be under way.
The Florida divorce process most commonly is as follows:
- Preparation – You must first prepare your forms in order to ensure your divorce goes as smoothly as possible. You will first file a Petition for Dissolution of Marriage in the correct county, listing any and all issues you would like the court to address, such as child custody, support, alimony, visitation, etc.
- Filing – Next, you must deliver the require forms to the clerk’s office of the circuit court for the county in which you are filing. It must be notarized on the spot, and you will need a copy for both your records as well as your spouse’s.
- Serving – You will then serve your spouse a copy of the filed petition for dissolution of marriage. This step depends entirely on your spouse’s reaction to the entire ordeal. If your spouse agrees to the idea of a divorce, the service will be accepted, and he or she will then fill out an “Answer and Waiver of Service” form. The sheriff’s office may also deliver the petition to your spouse, or a private process server can do so on your behalf.
- Finances – The final, required step is for you to disclose all of your finances with a signed affidavit within 45 days of serving the petition. This affidavit will include documents and information such as income, assets, debts, tax returns, financial statements, etc.
Contact Our Gainesville Divorce Attorneys Today
At Swanson Law Center, P.A., we believe in delivering our clients the top-rated legal services you deserve. We know divorce is one of the most emotionally, personally, and financially devastating experiences for anyone to endure, which is why we will do our part to relieve you of that burden in any way possible. Our trusted legal team, comprised of experienced and skilled Gainesville divorce lawyers, will be your greatest ally during an undoubtedly difficult time.
Schedule an initial consultation with a member of our team by calling us today at (352) 375-5602.