What is the Timeline for Divorce in Tampa, Florida?
The divorce process can feel very overwhelming and uncertain. You may wonder what steps are involved, or how long the process will take. Depending on the issues involved, your case may be resolved within just a few months, or it may take more than a year before it is finalized. While no two cases are exactly alike, there are some general guidelines you can follow when trying to understand the timeline of your case. One of our Tampa divorce attorneys explains what these are below.
Filing the Paperwork
Filing the Petition for Dissolution of Marriage with the court officially starts the divorce process. The spouse who files the paperwork is known as the petitioner and the other party is known as the respondent. The divorce petition can be filed as long as one spouse has lived in Florida for the six months leading up to filing. After the petition is filed, the other spouse then has 20 days to file their answer with the court. The filing can shape how the rest of the case unfolds.
Collecting Information and Financial Disclosure
Both spouses in a Florida divorce are required to provide a full financial disclosure. This takes 45 days from the time the petition is originally filed. Providing full financial disclosure requires gathering several important documents. These include tax returns, pay stubs, bank account statements, retirement account information, mortgage documents, and credit card statements. Being accurate and honest during this phase is critical because it can determine issues such as alimony, child support, and property division.
Negotiations
The majority of divorce cases in Florida are resolved during negotiations rather than going to trial. During the negotiation phase spouses, and the lawyers representing them, will work to resolve a number of different issues. These include property division, parenting plans, time-sharing schedules, and spousal support.
The Trial
Not every divorce case can be resolved during the negotiation phase. When couples cannot agree to even a single term, they may have to take the matter to court and go through a divorce trial. This requires discovery requests between the two sides, gathering additional evidence, and the scheduling of court hearings. This can cause a case to take much longer. When a divorce trial is necessary, it can take one year or more before the case is finalized. A judge will also make all decisions on any term that is not yet resolved.
Our Divorce Attorneys in Tampa Can Help You Navigate the Process
It is natural to wonder how long it will take to resolve your divorce case so you can move forward in your new life with confidence. At All Family Law Group, P.A., our Tampa divorce attorneys can guide you through the process and ensure it takes as little time as possible while also ensuring your rights are protected. Call us today at 813-672-1900 or fill out our online form to schedule a free consultation with one of our experienced attorneys and to learn more about how we can help with your case. Se Habla Espanol.
Source:
leg.state.fl.us/statutes/index.cfm?App_mode=Display_Statute&URL=0000-0099/0061/0061.html
