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FAQs: Divorce

Divorce Main Page

DIVORCE - WITH CHILDREN

Q	What is the Parent Stabilization Course?

DIVORCE - SIMPLIFIED

Q	What is a simplified divorce?
Q	What are the requirements that MUST BE MET for a simplified divorce?
Q	Are we required to have an attorney?
Q	Where do we get the forms to file a Petition for Simplified Dissolution?
Q	Where can we file a Petition for Simplified Dissolution?
Q	What information do we need to bring with us to file with the court?
Q	What does it cost to file for a simplified divorce?
Q	How long will it take for my divorce to become final?
Q	What happens after the judge signs the Final Judgment?

DIVORCE - WITH CHILDREN

Q	What is the Parent Stabilization Course?
A	Each party in a Dissolution of Marriage with Children must separately attend a course found in the Parent Education and Family Stabilization Course Provider List. Each party must pay a fee for the class. Each party must immediately file his/her Certificate of Attendance in the court file.
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DIVORCE - SIMPLIFIED

Q	What is a simplified divorce?
A	It is a simple method to end a marriage, if all requirements are met.
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Q	What are the requirements that MUST BE MET for a simplified divorce?
A	You and your spouse: Agree that the marriage cannot be saved Have no minor or dependent child(ren) together and the wife is not pregnant at this time Must have worked out: How you will divide the property/joint assets Who will pay what part of the money that you both owe (liabilities) You are both satisfied with this division One of you must have lived in Florida during the last six (6) months prior to filing Agree that there will be no alimony support Do not want any financial information other than that provided in the financial affidavits Agreed to give up your right to trial and appeal Are willing to go the Clerk & Comptroller’s office to sign the petition (not necessarily together) Are willing to go (together) to a final hearing Are aware of the following: After the dissolution becomes final, neither party has any right to expect money or support from the other (except for what is included in the property settlement agreement) You give up certain legal rights by using the Simplified Dissolution of Marriage procedure
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Q	Are we required to have an attorney?
A	No. However, if you have any legal questions about the process, property rights, tax consequences, etc., you should consult with an attorney prior to filing for a Simplified Dissolution of Marriage.
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Q	Where do we get the forms to file a Petition for Simplified Dissolution?
A	You can purchase and prepare forms online Go in person to a Self Service Center at any Clerk & Comptroller’s office. Download them for free from the Office of Florida State Courts
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Q	Where can we file a Petition for Simplified Dissolution?
A	A petition for Simplified Dissolution of Marriage may be filed with the Clerk & Comptroller’s office at any location.
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Q	What information do we need to bring with us to file with the court?
A	Picture identification (such as a driver's license) Proof of Florida residency that one of you has lived in Florida for more than six (6) months prior to filing of the petition Financial Affidavit Notice of Social Security Number (each of you must complete a separate notice) Marital Settlement Agreement (you will complete one agreement together)
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Q	What does it cost to file for a simplified divorce?
A	Please see Family Fees & Service Charges for the current filing fee.
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Q	How long will it take for my divorce to become final?
A	A hearing to finalize your divorce will be scheduled at the earliest possible date dependent upon the court's schedule. You and your spouse must both appear before the court on the scheduled hearing date.
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Q	What happens after the judge signs the Final Judgment?
A	The case is final.
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