What To Know About Uncontested Divorces in Florida

If you are thinking about ending your marriage, you may envision a long and bitter battle in divorce court. Fortunately, it does not have to be this way. There are many ways to end your marriage in Florida, including getting an uncontested divorce. Uncontested divorces have many benefits, but people do not always understand what this process entails. Below, one of our Tampa uncontested divorce attorneys explains this type of dissolution in further detail.

What is Uncontested Divorce?

An uncontested divorce is one in which both parties agree to all the major terms of the divorce, including:

Division of assets and debts
Alimony
Child custody
Child support
Any other legal or financial arrangements

Due to the fact that all issues in an uncontested divorce have already been resolved, the court does not have to make any decisions in the case. Instead, both parties will submit a written agreement to the court along with other documents that specify the terms that have been agreed upon. The process is much simpler than contested divorce cases and allows the couple to avoid multiple appearances in court.

What are the Benefits of Uncontested Divorce?

Uncontested divorces have many benefits over contested divorce cases. The main benefits are as follows:

Fewer court filings and legal hours result in lower court costs and attorney fees.
Uncontested divorces usually take just a few weeks instead of months like contested cases.
Spouses have greater control over the decisions made and do not have to rely on a judge.
Uncontested divorces require a cooperative mindset, which reduces emotional strain and tension.
Minimal court filings and fewer hearings can keep the details of an uncontested divorce out of public records.

When a couple can communicate effectively, they often find that uncontested divorce is a more efficient, respectful, and manageable approach.

What are the Requirements for Uncontested Divorce in Florida?

Just like other divorce cases, state law in Florida places certain requirements on uncontested divorce. The parties must meet the following criteria:

One of both spouses must have lived in Florida for at least six months.
Both spouses must agree that the marriage is irretrievably broken.
The couple must agree to all terms of the divorce.
Both parties must sign legal documents, such as the marital settlement agreement, and appear in court, if necessary.

Sometimes, a couple may also qualify for a simplified dissolution of marriage. This process is even faster but has stricter requirements. For example, a simplified dissolution of marriage cannot involve child custody or alimony issues.

Our Uncontested Divorce Lawyers in Tampa Can Provide the Legal Advice You Need

Uncontested divorces have many benefits, but they are also not right for all couples. At All Family Law Group, P.A., our Tampa uncontested divorce lawyers can advise you of all your legal options, help you determine which one is right for you, and guide you through the process so you obtain the best possible outcome. Call us now at 813-672-1900 or contact us online to request a free consultation and to learn more about how we can help. Se Habla Espanol.

Source:

leg.state.fl.us/statutes/index.cfm?App_mode=Display_Statute&URL=0000-0099/0061/0061.html