What is the process for filing a divorce?

In Florida, the process for filing a divorce is straightforward but involves several steps. First, the initiating spouse must draft a petition for dissolution of marriage and file it in the county where either you or your spouse lives. This petition includes information about the marriage, such as the date of marriage and the grounds for divorce, as well as any agreements the spouses have reached regarding issues such as child support, alimony, and division of property. Once the petition is filed, it must be served to the other spouse. This can be done by mail, in person, or by a third-party process server. The other spouse then has 20 days to file a response. If a response is not filed within 20 days, the initiating spouse can apply for a default judgment. This judgment will grant the divorce, divide up assets, and make decisions regarding any issues such as child custody and support. If, however, a response is filed, the case will proceed to a hearing where the court will make decisions based on evidence presented by both parties. Once the court has made its ruling, the judgment will be entered to grant the divorce. The divorce will then be final and both parties must abide by the court’s orders. From the time a petition is filed until the divorce is final, the process typically takes several months.

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What is the process for filing a divorce?

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