How to Get a Quick Divorce in Florida

When many people think of divorce, they imagine a long and bitter battle in the courtroom. Fortunately, few divorce cases today end in trial. While there really is no such thing as a ‘quick’ divorce, it is possible to move forward in your newly single life in just a matter of months, or even days, from filing the papers with the court. Below, our Orlando divorce lawyer outlines ways to expedite the process.

Getting a Simplified Divorce in Florida 

The fastest way to end your marriage in Florida is through a simplified divorce. Unfortunately, this option is not available to all couples. If you wish to get a simplified divorce, you and your spouse cannot have any minor children or dependents together. You must both also waive your right to pursue alimony. Wives cannot be pregnant and one party must have also been a Florida resident for at least six months. You and your spouse must also both consent to the divorce and you must agree on all terms.

If you are eligible for a simplified divorce, you or your spouse must file the paperwork with the court. A hearing date will be sent approximately 20 days after you file. At the hearing, the court will finalize the divorce.

Getting an Uncontested Divorce in Florida 

Another way to obtain a fairly quick divorce is to get an uncontested divorce. You do not have to meet the same requirements of a simplified divorce. For example, if you and your spouse have children together, you may decide to get an uncontested divorce. However, you and your spouse must still agree to all terms of the divorce.

If you and your spouse can agree to all of the terms, a hearing will be scheduled approximately three months after you file the papers with the work. Due to this, it will take approximately four months to finalize an uncontested divorce.

If you and your spouse cannot agree to all the terms of a divorce, your case will become contested. In a contested divorce, you and your spouse must negotiate the terms of the divorce. You can do this with your lawyers or during mediation, which is mandatory for all contested cases in Florida. Mediation is one element of contested cases that makes them take longer. If mediation is unsuccessful, you will have to go to trial, which can take several months, or even more than one year.

Our Divorce Lawyer in Orlando Can Help Expedite the Process 

After making the decision to end your marriage, you likely want to move on from a divorce as quickly as possible. While possible, you should not go through the process alone. At Anderson & Ferrin, P.A., our Orlando divorce lawyer can outline your options and if necessary, negotiate effectively with the other side so you obtain the most favorable outcome. Call us now at 407-412-7041 or contact us online to request a free initial consultation with our experienced attorney and to get the legal help you need.

Source:

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

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