Blog

Things to Consider Before You File for Divorce in the Orlando, Florida Area

You are contemplating Dissolution of Marriage in the Orlando, Florida Area. What should you know? What are your options? Do you plan to separate? Do you want to obtain a legal separation agreement? Have you already been to counseling; and are ready to file for divorce? If you are ready to pursue a divorce, do you want to attend Mediation or do you think that your divorce will be litigated due to the acrimony between you and your spouse? Have you considered a Collaborative Divorce? 

Divorce in Florida

Florida is a no-fault state. That means even if you request marriage counseling, if the parties attend one or two sessions, that will usually suffice. Technically, you can be divorced within twenty days from the date the opposing party is served with a Petition for Dissolution of Marriage. That is, if both parties agree. However, it usually takes much longer than that. Even with a simplified divorce, both parties must file financial affidavits at a minimum. They must also file a notice of social security number and a nonmilitary affidavit; and one of the parties must file a copy of their Florida driver’s license to prove residency. 

What to File

Many parties will want to comply with mandatory disclosure and produce more than a financial affidavit. They may want to produce financial documents between themselves that detail all their assets and all their liabilities. If you have children, you will also need to file a parenting plan and child support guidelines worksheet. If you have children under the age of fourteen, then you must take a parenting course. You can take the parenting course online. 

Costs of Filing

It costs $408.00 to file a Petition for Dissolution of Marriage. A summons costs $10. Then, you must pay the sheriff or process server to serve the summons and dissolution of marriage paperwork on the other party. If you are the spouse who is served paperwork, it will cost you $295.00 to file a Counter-petition for Dissolution of Marriage. The person who initiates the filing of the divorce is called the Petitioner. The person who is served the dissolution of marriage paperwork is called the Respondent. 

If you have more questions regarding a Marital and Family Law matter, you may call Ann Marie Giordano Gilden at Ann Marie Giordano Gilden, P.A. at 407-732-7620 and set an initial consultation. 

This article is for informational purposes only and does not form an attorney client privilege.