A simplified divorce provides an easy method for couples to dissolve their marriage in Florida. This option is suitable for couples that find it easy to compromise on issues to be addressed and fit into certain requirements. It is often opted for to facilitate a quick and peaceful dissolution of a marriage without going through an elaborate divorce process.
However, not all couples are eligible for a simplified divorce. In this article, you will learn the requirements the spouses need to meet and find out if this process can work for you.
What is the Florida Simplified Divorce?
The Florida simplified divorce can be classified as a quick and easy divorce in contrast to the standard divorce. It usually involves the submission of fewer documents and is generally not prerogative for parties to attend lengthy hearings, thus making it an appealing type of dissolution for couples.
Requirements to Meet for a Simplified Divorce in Florida
To file for a simplified divorce in Florida, both spouses must meet all the following requirements:
a. Agreement on Divorce Terms
Both parties should accept that the marriage is beyond repair or in other words there is no hope of reconciling the marriage. Also, both partners must agree with every contractual condition including the obligations of distributing the assets and liabilities.
b. No Children or Pregnancy
One of the details that is contingent to simplified divorce is that the applicants cannot have minor children, and neither of them can be pregnant. If you have children or anticipate having one soon, then a traditional divorce procedure is necessary in order to know who has to pay child support, who will have custody of the child(ren), and who will have the rights of visitation.
c. No Alimony Requests
In a simplified divorce, neither party can ask for alimony. If there is a necessity for one spouse to receive financial assistance, then the divorce has to be more complicated.
d. Residency Requirement
One of the parties must have resided in Florida for at least six months before filing for a simplified divorce. Identification such as a Florida driver’s license or state identification card showing the Florida address must be submitted when filing.
e. Willingness to Appear in Court
Both the partners must be present in court for the final hearing to complete the process of the divorce. This short sighting is for both partners to sign for the agreed divorce settlement.
Advantages of a Florida Simplified Divorce
A simplified divorce is usually chosen because this type of divorce is among the easiest and offers a lot of flexibility. The process is designed to remove some of the actual structure of an actual divorce, and the monetary costs that are often done away with. With this method, the couples can annul their marriage soonest and there will be no bitter disputes between them.
What if You Do Not Qualify for a Florida Simplified Divorce?
If you and your spouse do not fit for this type of divorce, then, you will have to undergo standard divorce processes. In such circumstances, it is recommended that an individual hire a divorce attorney—in a bid not to hurt his/her own interests.