The divorce process is never pretty, even if both spouses don’t want to be married any longer. They still tend to dread going through the whole process. One option in Florida is an uncontested divorce. It can be much simpler than going through a traditional divorce.
Steps in an Uncontested Divorce in Florida
In most traditional divorces, a lot of the hassle has to do with spousal disagreements. When both parties agree on the specifics, the process is much quicker and easier. This is what an uncontested divorce is all about. Here are the steps in the uncontested divorce process in Florida.
Step 1: To get the process started, the divorcing couple will need to fill out the forms required in their county of residence. It is advisable to hire a divorce attorney who can help handle the uncontested divorce to make sure nothing gets missed and everything is filled out correctly.
Step 2: Fill out the “Marital Settlement Agreement.” This form details all the things the two spouses have agreed to.
Step 3: If minor children are involved, the parents will be required to attend a parenting course. They will also have to develop a Parenting Plan. The Parenting Plan has to be approved by the judge. The judge has to approve all the details, including child support. They can reject the agreement, if for any reason, they feel it’s not in the children’s best interest.
Step 4: After all the documents have been prepared, they need to be filed with the County Clerk of Courts. The filing fee will need to be paid at this time. This can vary depending on the county, but it is typically around $400.
Step 5: The last step is the judge entering a Final Judgement and granting the divorce. Some counties do require a brief appearance at the final hearing.
Is a Divorce Lawyer Needed for an Uncontested Divorce?
There is no requirement to hire a lawyer to handle an uncontested divorce. However, it’s a good idea. In some instances, you may not need to understand your rights, get help with negotiations, or require legal advice. Even if both spouses agree on the details, it’s a good idea to work closely with a divorce lawyer. It can be a huge benefit for divorcing couples that have a home, own a business, have retirement plans, or have minor children.
