Relationships can be sophisticated, and while no couple dreams of filing for divorce, unfortunate circumstances could possibly bring them to the brink of separation. In the state of Florida, divorce is legally referred to as “dissolution of marriage” and it involves a process coupled with a series of divorce forms that need to be accurately filled and presented. This article offers comprehensive insight into what Florida divorce forms encompass.
Dissolution of marriage in Florida can be subdivided into simplified and regular divorce, with each category requiring unique sets of forms.
Simplified Divorce
Simplified divorce, also known as a simplified dissolution of marriage, is a fast-track divorce procedure applicable to couples who have mutually agreed on asset distribution and have no minor or dependent children. The significant Florida divorce forms involved here include Family Law Financial Affidavit (Form 12.902(b)) and Marital Settlement Agreement for Simplified Dissolution of Marriage (Form 12.902(f)(3)).
Regular Divorce
Unlike simplified divorce, regular divorce is more complex, particularly when the interests of children or financial issues are at stake. The key forms involved include Petition for Dissolution of Marriage with Dependent or Minor Child(ren) (Form 12.901(b)(1)), Family Law Financial Affidavit (Form 12.902(b) or 12.902(c)), and Notice of Social Security Number (Form 12.902(j)).
For both simplified and regular divorces, additional Florida divorce forms can be requested by the court as needed. Navigating through all these forms can be daunting, especially if you’re not familiar with the law jargon. It’s advisable to engage a professional legal counsel who can guide you effectively through the process. One of those often recommended is a family lawyer in Gosford.
A family lawyer in Gosford does not just guide you in the correct filling and submission of the Florida divorce forms, but also provides an understanding of the rights, options, and possible outcome of the divorce proceedings on their client. This expert advice and guidance tend to alleviate the anxiety that could stem from the complexity of the divorce proceedings.
Nonetheless, as the person filing for divorce, you are required to accurately complete and present these forms to a court clerk in your county to initiate divorce proceedings. However, due to the complexity of the legal language, it is strongly recommended to consult with a qualified family lawyer. A lawyer will not just help you comprehend the intricate details of your situation, but can also improve the odds of a favorable outcome.
After your forms have been successfully filled out, a copy will be sent to your spouse, officially alerting them of the ongoing divorce proceedings. Following the submission of the forms, a judge will then review them, and a court date may be set. The outcome of this hearing will ultimately decide the terms of your divorce.
Conclusion
Filing for a divorce in the state of Florida involves dealing with a plethora of forms that could be daunting to most individuals. While going through the process alone is an option, having a professional by your side such as a family lawyer in Gosford can be incredibly beneficial. Besides offering a deep understanding of the process, their guidance ensures that all the appropriate forms are correctly filled and submitted to the court, ultimately helping facilitate a smoother and less stressful divorce process.