What are the Requirements for a No-Fault Divorce in Florida?
If you live in Florida and want to get a divorce, it’s important to know that you live in a no-fault state. This means you can file for divorce without having to state any specific reason why you want to end your marriage. It’s important to know the requirements for a no-fault divorce if you are considering this route.
Generally speaking, the only requirement necessary on the part of the spouse who wants to end the marriage is to assert that the marriage is irretrievably broken or that there are irreconcilable differences between them and their spouse. As a result, the divorce court does not have to look into evidence to determine which spouse is at fault for the breakdown of the marriage and the subsequent divorce request. Additionally, both parties can also forego having to speak of various, highly emotional issues in court.
After a person has decided they no longer want to be married to their spouse, they must file a petition for dissolution with their local circuit court. The divorce petition must state that the marriage is irretrievably broken or that there are irreconcilable differences between the spouses. The person who is filing must also include exactly what they want from the court.
The other spouse is then served the petition and is required to respond to it within 20 days. They are required to address any and all of the issues mentioned in the petition and those that they want to answer. In some cases, there may be a dispute by the spouse who is served, but often, both spouses agree that the marriage is irretrievably broken and agree to the divorce.
It’s also important to know there are two processes for divorce in Florida: regular or simplified divorce. While a regular divorce must through a trial and include standard court procedures, evidence and discovery, a simplified one merely requires the spouses to complete a form. However, simplified divorces require that the wife is not pregnant and there are no dependent children within the marriage. The parties must also agree on the division of property, payment of debts and to skip alimony.
If you are in Florida and looking to divorce your spouse, you need the Law Office of Amber Boles on your side. The family law firm in Tampa Florida will ensure your rights are protected as you consult with Tampa FL no-fault divorce lawyers. Contact family law firm in Tampa Florida the Law Office of Amber Boles immediately to discuss your situation with Tampa FL no-fault divorce lawyers.