Divorcing in Tampa Bay Florida
General Overview of Divorce in Florida : Florida is considered a “no fault” divorce state. Either party (spouse) may seek out and file for a divorce in Florida without proving there are any specific reasons for wanting a divorce. In short, if you no longer want to be married because you consider the marriage to be “irretrievably broken” then you are able to file for a divorce in Florida. At least one spouse must have resided within the state of Florida for at least six months prior to filing for a divorce.
Video:
Tampa Bay Divorce Overview, Contested vs. Uncontested Divorce Cases
Divorcing in Florida – Minor Children
If there are no minor children from the marriage and if the responding party does not answer the petition for dissolution of marriage by filing an answer with the courts denying that the marriage is irretrievably broken, the courts will likely enter a judgment of dissolution of the marriage if it finds the marriage is in fact “irretrievably broken.” Answering a Petition for Dissolution of Marriage, even when minor children are not present is important, especially if you have acquired assets. Florida is considered an equitable distribution state or “50/50” state. This doesn’t mean you and your ex will split everything exactly in half. Florida Statutes requires that marital assets and debts be distributed in a fair and equitable manner.
Divorce & Minor Children
If there are minor children from the marriage, or if the responding party denies by answer to the petition for dissolution of marriage that the marriage is irretrievably broken, the court may either order the parties to marriage counseling or order counseling by any other person deemed qualified by the court and acceptable to the divorcing parties. A Judge can also take other action that they feel is in the best interest of the parties and the minor child or children of the marriage. If, at any time, the court finds that the marriage is irretrievably broken, the court shall enter a judgment of dissolution of the marriage. If the court finds that the marriage is not irretrievably broken, it shall deny the petition for dissolution of marriage.
Source 61.052 Dissolution of Marriage — 2020 FL Statutes
Learn More About Divorcing in Tampa Bay
High Asset Divorces in Florida
Uncontested Divorces in Florida
Hiring a Tampa Divorce Attorney
Hiring a Tampa, Florida Divorce Attorney is an important decision. If you have been served with a Petition for Dissolution of Marriage or, if you need to consult with a Tampa Bay divorce attorney to discuss your options, please call our office or, if you prefer, use the form below to reach out to us. Attorney Sanchez has represented clients who are divorcing in Tampa bay for over 30 years. Respected by his clients and industry peers alike, he has earned a top-rating with AVVO as a Tampa divorce & family law lawyer and is listed as one of the 10 Best Family Law Firms in Hillsborough County, Florida. Attorney Sanchez provides couples who are divorcing in Hillsborough, Pinellas and Pasco County, Florida effective, focused legal counsel to help them move forward. If you are out of State and need assistance with a divorce in Tampa Bay, please reach out to our law firm for help.
Read: Should You Hire a Tampa Divorce Lawyer?
Contact Tampa Divorce Lawyers, Nilo J Sanchez & Associates