Steps for Getting a Divorce

Essential Steps for Getting a Divorce

Navigating the divorce process can be challenging, but understanding the steps to getting a divorce can make it more manageable. If you’re in Palm Beach County, FL, Hudson Family Law can help. Whether you’re just considering divorce or ready to take action, knowing Florida’s divorce laws and working with a trusted professional is essential. This guide will outline the divorce process and how our experienced divorce attorneys can assist you every step of the way.

Hudson Family Law’s Attorneys Are Experts in the Divorce Process

Divorce is never easy, but having the right support can make a big difference. Hudson Family Law has more than three decades worth of experience handling divorce proceedings, offering compassionate guidance and expert legal advice. We specialize in helping families and individuals in Palm Beach County through each stage of the divorce process – from filing legal paperwork to negotiating fair settlements. Our team is dedicated to making this chapter of your life as smooth as possible.

Understanding Florida Divorce Requirements

Florida has its own set of rules regarding divorce. To file for divorce in Florida, one of the spouses must have lived in the state for at least six months. However, Florida is a “no-fault” divorce state, so you don’t need to prove any wrongdoing by your spouse to file. Instead, you must claim that your marriage is “irretrievably broken,” meaning it can’t be repaired. Understanding these basic requirements is the first step toward starting your divorce proceedings.

How to Decide on the Right Type of Divorce

Not all divorces are created equally. Choosing the right type of divorce will set the tone for your case and determine how involved your divorce attorney needs to be. Among Florida’s divorce options are:

• Uncontested Divorce – Both spouses agree on all terms, including asset division, child custody, and spousal support. This process is generally the quickest and least expensive.
• Contested Divorce – Spouses disagree on some or all terms, requiring court intervention to settle disputes.
• Simplified Divorce – This dissolution of marriage is available only to couples without children and when both parties agree on all terms.

What You Must Do to Get a Divorce in Florida

If you’re ready to proceed with the divorce process, you must follow these key steps to do so in Florida:

Consult a Divorce Attorney

Your first step should be to consult an experienced divorce lawyer. A professional can review your situation, educate you on your rights, and help build a plan tailored to your needs. Hudson Family Law offers personalized consultations to help you get started on the right foot.

Prepare and File the Petition

The divorce process begins when one spouse files a petition for dissolution of marriage with the county’s circuit court. This document outlines the reasons for divorce and any key requests, such as child custody or alimony. Your attorney can ensure this petition is completed accurately and filed on your behalf.

Serve Divorce Papers

After filing, the petition must be formally delivered to your spouse. Florida law requires a sheriff or licensed process server to serve these papers. Your spouse will have a specific amount of time to respond, typically 20 days.

Financial Disclosure

Florida law requires both spouses to fully disclose their finances. This includes assets, debts, income, and expenses. Financial disclosure will create transparency and ensure fair decisions regarding property division, spousal support, and child support.

Negotiate and Settle

For uncontested divorces, the negotiation and settlement phase involves both spouses working to agree on terms. A mediator may help facilitate these discussions. For contested divorces, your attorney will represent you during negotiations or court hearings to protect your interests.

Final Hearing and Judgment

Once all terms are agreed or decided by the court, a final hearing takes place for a judge to approve the divorce agreement and issue the final judgment.

Post-Divorce Considerations

After the divorce, you may still have some tasks to complete. You must update legal documents and follow up on court-ordered arrangements like alimony payments or custody schedules. Your divorce lawyer can assist with these post-divorce considerations to ensure you don’t overlook anything.

Hudson Family Law Can Assist You

Each divorce is unique, so no guide can cover every possible scenario. That’s why working with an expert divorce attorney is critical. At Hudson Family Law, our team takes the time to understand your needs and deliver tailored legal solutions. Whether resolving difficult financial matters, protecting child custody agreements, or ensuring an uncontested divorce remains amicable, we’re here to support you.

Contact Us in Palm Beach County Today

If you’re in Palm Beach County, FL, and need a trusted divorce lawyer, look no further than Hudson Family Law. We understand how emotional and stressful the divorce process can be, and we’re committed to providing you with the knowledge and support you need to move forward confidently. Contact us today to schedule your free consultation.