Why Get an Uncontested Divorce In Florida?

When many people consider the prospect of divorce, they envision a contentious and bitter battle in the courtroom. While it is true that some cases may end this way, that is not always the case. Uncontested divorces are becoming very popular in Florida, as they hold many benefits for couples.
In order to get an uncontested divorce, a couple must agree to all terms of a case. These include property division, alimony, time-sharing, and more. Below, one of our Tampa uncontested divorce attorneys outlines the benefits and eligibility requirements for this type of dissolution.
Benefits of Getting an Uncontested Divorce
Uncontested divorces are becoming more common in Florida because they hold so many benefits. These are as follows:
- Faster: Uncontested divorces can often be resolved in just a few weeks because the couple agrees to the terms. This is much faster than contested cases, which can take many months, one year, or even longer.
- More affordable: Couples pay less in court costs and attorneys fees when obtaining an uncontested divorce. This is because they are faster and fewer, if any, court appearances are necessary.
- More control: When spouses cannot agree to the terms of a case, a judge will make all final decisions. Judges will only take certain factors into consideration and they do not necessarily include the preferences of either spouse. Spouses who get an uncontested divorce have better control over the process and can make decisions more suitable to them.
- Less conflict: In an uncontested divorce, spouses work together to reach an agreement on the terms fairly quickly. This is vastly different from contested cases, in which the spouses are often combative towards each other and focus more on ‘winning’ than a fair settlement.
- Privacy: Due to the fact that there are fewer court filings and appearances, much of what is discussed during an uncontested divorce remains confidential.
While many couples wish to pursue an uncontested divorce due to the above benefits, not everyone is eligible.
Eligibility Requirements for Uncontested Divorces
In Florida, there are many eligibility requirements for couples who wish to obtain an uncontested divorce. These include:
- One or both spouses must have lived in the state for a minimum of six months.
- Both spouses must agree that the marital relationship is irretrievably broken.
- The couple must agree to every term of the divorce.
- If necessary, both spouses must be willing to attend a court appearance and to sign the divorce papers.
Another type of uncontested divorce is a simplified dissolution of marriage but this has even more requirements. Couples cannot have any children together and the woman cannot be pregnant, neither spouse can request alimony, and both parties must waive their rights to a trial and appeal.
Contact Our Uncontested Divorce Attorneys in Tampa Today
At All Family Law Group, P.A., our Tampa uncontested divorce attorneys can advise on whether you are eligible for an uncontested divorce and guide you through the process so it is as easy as possible for you. Call us today at 813-672-1900 or contact us online to schedule a free consultation and to get the legal help you need. Se Habla Espanol.
Source:
leg.state.fl.us/statutes/index.cfm?App_mode=Display_Statute&URL=0000-0099/0061/0061.html


