In the state of Florida, there are three basic types of divorce. This doesn’t refer to the reason for filing for divorce, but instead, the way you file.
Each option requires something from the court, and the one that’s right for you depends on your circumstances and if you and your spouse agree on major issues or not.
Because the divorce process can be complex, messy, and emotional, hiring an attorney from Griffin Family Law is highly recommended. Our legal team will learn about your situation and help you resolve your issues in a manner that works for your situation.
Keep reading to learn what the three main types of Florida divorce are.
The Simplified Divorce
With a simplified divorce, couples can quickly and efficiently get through the divorce process. The catch is that they must agree on the important issues and meet certain criteria. The way to qualify for a simplified divorce includes:
- Have no children who are still minors
- Agree on the best way to divide the money
- Agree on the best way to divide property
- Not be pregnant
If you meet these criteria and can agree on issues without the court’s input, you may be able to qualify to file for a simplified divorce.
Regular Uncontested Divorce
With a regular uncontested divorce, you will go through a divorce process that is mainly before going to court and the judge just signs off on the decisions made. Every married couple can use this method of divorce in Florida if they qualify.
To qualify to file a regular uncontested divorce, the couple must solve their main issues in advance. This can be done on their own, with the help of their family law attorneys, or by way of mediation, where a third party is the “go-between” to find the best compromise for the couple and their situation.
For regular uncontested divorces, each party’s attorney will create an agreement based on the decisions made by the couple. Once the agreement is created, then both parties will sign it and submit it to the court. The court will then sign the agreement and make the divorce final. Filing this type of divorce is usually faster and much less expensive than going through a regular contested divorce (described below).
Regular Contested Divorce
A regular contested divorce is what most people think of as a standard divorce and is one that will be resolved in court. Every couple in Florida can file for this type of divorce. It is for individuals who are unable to make decisions on their own about important divorce-related issues.
With the regular contested divorce, both parties will go to court with their legal representation. They will present their side of the situation and what they would like to happen. It is the Judge that will determine how the divorce will be handled. Unlike the regular uncontested divorce, all divorce-related decisions are up to the Judge.
Why do You Need a Family Law Attorney When Filing for a Florida Divorce?
When filing a divorce, you may believe that you can handle the process on your own. However, even in a simplified divorce, having a family law attorney to help you with the process can be invaluable.
Some of the reasons to hire an attorney to help with your Florida divorce proceedings include:
They Understand the Requirements for Filing for Divorce in Florida
One of the first reasons to hire an attorney for help with your Florida divorce is because they will understand what must be done to file for divorce. They will know the requirements and standards that must be met and ensure that all deadlines are met. This will avoid any issues that may occur otherwise.
They Can Provide Advice and Guidance Along the Way
A quality, experienced family law attorney, will provide you with the advice and guidance needed for the divorce proceedings. They can let you know when you can ask for more and when you should compromise based on their experience. Remember, a family attorney will have been through this process many times before, which means they can help you each step of the way.
Griffin Family Law is Ready to Help.
When it comes to filing for divorce, there are many factors to consider. However, if you want to help take some of the stress out of the situation, contact our legal team at Griffin Family Law. We serving the Jacksonville Beaches and greater Jacksonville area, including the counties of Ponte Vedra Beach, Duval, Nassau, Clay, Baker, and St. Johns.. We can help you decide what type of divorce best works for your situation and make sure that you get the outcome desired if possible. Griffin Family Law is here to help during this stressful time and take some of the hassle and frustration out of your Florida divorce.
