How Can I Speed Up a Contested Divorce in Florida?

Your marriage ending is one of the hardest things you will ever go through. On top of the emotional toll and the uncertainty about your future, you may also have to face a long divorce process before you can get the fresh start you are looking forward to. When a divorce is contested, meaning you and your spouse cannot agree to the different terms, it is going to take some time. Still, there are ways to expedite the process and make it easier. Below, our Tampa contested divorce attorney outlines some tips that can help.

Collect the Necessary Paperwork Early in the Process

Divorce requires a great deal of paperwork. You will need to fill out forms, provide full financial disclosure, and more. You will also need a great deal of documentation throughout the process. As early as possible, start collecting the necessary documents you need. These include bank statements, tax returns for the last several years, pay stubs, information for retirement accounts, mortgage documents, and more.

Gathering all of this paperwork takes time, but is a critical step. If you can collect the necessary information as early as possible, it not only ensures that you are properly prepared, but it can also take weeks off of the process.

Communicate With Your Attorney Promptly 

You do not have to speak to your attorney on a daily basis throughout the process. You may not even need to speak to them weekly. However, there are times when it is critical that you communicate promptly with your attorney. For example, if you receive a summons or any other correspondence from the court, inform your lawyer of this right away. Likewise, if your attorney asks you for certain documentation, get it to them right away. Delaying speaking to your attorney can slow down the entire process.

Compromise

Your goal when entering the divorce process should be to obtain your fair share from the marriage. You should not prioritize leaving your spouse with nothing or revenge. This is unrealistic, can actually hurt your credibility with the court, and drag out the divorce process. Go into proceedings knowing you will have to compromise and set goals on what you prioritize the most and the goals you are not willing to deviate from.

Consider Mediation Over Litigation 

Just because you are getting a contested divorce does not mean it has to end in a courtroom battle. The family courts in Florida often order couples to attempt mediation before going to trial. Mediation can take just a matter of weeks and fosters an environment of cooperation, which is particularly helpful for people who have to co-parent afterward. If possible, resolve your issues during mediation and avoid the courtroom as much as possible.

Work with an Experienced Contested Divorce Attorney in Tampa 

At All Family Law Group, P.A., our Tampa contested divorce attorney can help expedite your divorce by making sure you understand the legal process and avoid unnecessary delays. Call us today at 813-672-1900 or contact us online to schedule a free consultation and to get the sound advice you need. Se Habla Espanol.

Source:

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