Getting a divorce is always a drag, no matter what state you live in. In Florida, even though it is sunny and warm outside, the fact that you have to get a divorce may leave you cold. It doesn’t matter if you live in Miami or Tallahassee, you are subject to the laws as those in other states.
Florida calls a divorce a “dissolution of marriage.” It is also a no-fault divorce state which means that one of you needs to tell the judge that the marriage is irretrievably broken and nothing will fix it. In other states it is called irreconcilable differences. Either of you can file under this law.
There is a residency requirement that applies to everyone, including military members. At least one of you have to have lived in Florida for six months before you can even file for a divorce. This has to be provable with an electricity bill or other documentation.
When you apply for a divorce that is irretrievably broken your spouse will have an opportunity to reply by filing an “Answer.” This is his or her chance to reply and may be used in the court of law to grant the divorce or send you two to a mediation session or two. Some spouses will agree on basic divorce issues that include such topics as child custody and support, distribution of property and alimony. This may seem an easy solution but many people who have a lot of assets will not see things as clear cut.
You may want to get an attorney who has been around the block so far as high asset divorces go. You want what is rightfully yours and this individual knows the laws of the state of Florida and can guide you and advise you on how to handle this type of separation.
Source: FindLaw, “Divorce in Florida,” accessed Dec. 14, 2015
