What are the Different Types of Divorce in Tampa?
When people think about ending their marriage, they often think there is only one way to do it. While divorce is necessary to dissolve a legally valid marriage, there is more than one type available in Florida. While some cases may end in a heated courtroom battle, this does not occur in the majority of cases. Below, one of our Tampa divorce attorneys outlines the three different types of dissolution available in Florida.
Contested Divorce
Contested divorces are often the type most people think of, largely because these heated cases are often shown in movies and television shows. Contested divorces are necessary when a couple cannot reach an agreement about the different terms of the case. These include property division, time-sharing arrangements for minor children, alimony, and more. Mediation can help resolve these issues and bring the couple to an agreement. When this does not work, the couple may have to go to trial during which a judge will make all final decisions.
Contested cases can become very combative in nature. This results in them taking longer and incurring more legal fees and court costs. A contested case can cost up to $10,000 or more, and take a year or longer to resolve. Still, taking your divorce case to trial is often necessary to protect your rights.
Uncontested Divorce
Unlike contested cases, during an uncontested divorce the couple agrees to all of the different terms. If a couple disagrees on even one term, the case becomes contested. Couples who wish to get an uncontested divorce do not have to immediately agree to the terms. Instead, their Tampa divorce attorneys can enter into negotiations to reach an agreement that is acceptable for both spouses.
Uncontested divorces have many benefits. Due to the fact that they do not require multiple court appearances and therefore are not reliant on the court’s schedule, they proceed much more quickly. Typically, uncontested divorces take just a few weeks to a couple of months. As a result, they are also less expensive, incurring fewer court costs and attorney’s fees. Because the couple makes all decisions, they also have much greater control over the outcome than when a judge must decide.
Simplified Dissolution of Marriage
A Simplified Dissolution of Marriage is the quickest way to get divorced in Florida, but not everyone is eligible. To qualify, the spouses cannot have any children together and the woman cannot be pregnant. Both spouses must also waive their right to alimony, a trial, and an appeal. For couples that are eligible, this type of divorce can take as little as 30 days.
Our Divorce Attorneys in Tampa Can Explain Your Legal Options
If you are thinking about divorce, it is important to seek legal advice. At All Family Law Group, P.A., our Tampa divorce attorneys can advise you of your options, help you determine which path is right for you, and guide you through the process so you obtain the fairest outcome possible. Call us today at 813-672-1900 or contact us online to schedule 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
