Choosing to officially end your marriage is often emotional, and the legalities of divorce can add to that stress. If you are considering filing for divorce or have already started the process, understanding the Pembroke Pines divorce requirements is critical.
A dedicated divorce attorney can explain the requirements and what to expect during divorce proceedings, represent you, and help you achieve a fair resolution.
Milestones of the Divorce Process
To fully understand the requirements of divorce in Pembroke Pines, spouses need to learn about the key milestones in this process. These milestones mark the beginning of the divorce proceedings, how the divorce will move forward, and the finalization of the divorce.
Filing and Serving the Petition
A divorce begins with one spouse filing a petition for dissolution of marriage and serving it on the other spouse. After service, the responding spouse usually has twenty days to answer.
Financial Affidavit and Other Paperwork
The spouses must then submit additional forms and affidavits. These include:
- A Family Law Financial Affidavit outlining income, expenses, assets, and debts.
- A Uniform Child Custody Jurisdiction and Enforcement Act Affidavit with information regarding any minor children.
- Child support worksheet, if requesting child support.
- Certificate of Compliance with Mandatory Disclosure agreeing to disclose certain financial information and documentation.
To avoid unnecessary delays, all required forms should be submitted before the filing deadlines. An attorney may assist with determining the deadlines and helping to complete these required filings accurately.
Discovery
During discovery, the spouses will provide each other and their lawyers with financial documents and information, including tax returns, pay stubs, and bank statements. This information is key for determining child support, alimony, and property division.
Parenting Plan and Class
If minor children are involved, divorcing spouses will need to work on a parenting plan regarding where the child or children will live and their parenting responsibilities. Parents may also be required to complete a parenting class.
Settlement Negotiation
Spouses may be able to reach a settlement to resolve any outstanding issues and reach an agreement. Child custody, support, and property division are some issues typically covered during these negotiations. If a settlement cannot be reached on some or all issues, the divorce may need to proceed to trial.
Final Hearing
During the final hearing, the judge will review all paperwork and the proposed settlement. If the judge approves the agreement, the divorce will be finalized.
Divorce Requirements and Legal Grounds for Dissolution
Florida is a no-fault divorce state. This means that a petitioning spouse does not need to prove that the other spouse is to blame for the marriage ending. Rather, they must only show that the marriage is irretrievably broken. Additionally, a person may have grounds for divorce if their spouse has been deemed mentally incapacitated for three or more years.
Another requirement to file for divorce in Pembroke Pines is that at least one spouse must have lived in Florida for six months and have been a resident of Broward County for at least three months.
Contact a Pembroke Pines Attorney to Learn More About the Divorce Requirements
Knowing the steps involved in the divorce process can relieve unnecessary stress during an already emotional time. By fully understanding the Pembroke Pines divorce requirements and what to expect during each phase of divorce proceedings, you can make informed decisions and avoid unnecessary delays or errors.
The trusted family lawyers at The Florida Probate & Family Law Firm are ready to assist you with this big task. We can help you understand the requirements, file a petition or response, make the necessary disclosures, and negotiate for a fair resolution, so contact us for a free case evaluation.
