6 Important Things to Know If You’re Getting a Divorce in Florida

Introduction

Divorce is an emotional and legal process that requires careful consideration and planning. If you are considering getting a divorce in the state of Florida, it’s essential to understand the specific requirements and laws that govern the process. This article provides a comprehensive guide to help you navigate the divorce journey smoothly and efficiently. Let’s explore six top pieces of information you need to know to reach a marital settlement agreement and get divorce papers in Florida.

Residency Requirements

Like most states, Florida has a residency requirement for divorce. At least one spouse must have lived in the state for a minimum of six months before filing for divorce. You can prove Florida residency with a copy of a Florida-issued ID card or voter registration, or through a sworn affidavit from someone attesting to the residency of one spouse for at least six months.

The residency requirement serves a critical purpose, aiming to prevent one spouse from seeking a divorce without the other spouse’s knowledge or trying to gain an advantage in the divorce proceedings. By ensuring both spouses are informed and have a say in the process, the state protects the rights of all parties involved.

Grounds for Divorce

Florida divorce law allows for both no-fault and fault divorces. In a no-fault divorce, you only need to state that your marriage is irretrievably broken, without having to provide further details or prove fault on the part of your spouse. Uniquely, Florida also allows no-fault divorce when one spouse is mentally incapacitated, provided a court has made a determination of incapacity at least three years before initiating divorce proceedings.

Alternatively, fault divorce can be sought if there are specific reasons, such as adultery, abandonment, abuse, neglect, or misuse of marital funds, contributing to the breakdown of the marriage. However, fault divorces are generally more expensive and time-consuming than no-fault divorces and are usually considered only in extreme cases.

Property Division

Florida follows the principle of equitable distribution when dividing marital property and debt. Equitable distribution means that property is divided fairly but not necessarily equally. Several factors are considered during property division, including each spouse’s contributions to the marriage, the duration of the marriage, financial resources, and earning potential, as well as separate property owned by each spouse.

It is important to understand the distinction between marital property and separate property. Marital property includes assets and debts acquired during the marriage, while separate property refers to assets owned before the marriage or received as an inheritance or gift. Properly identifying and valuing marital and separate property is crucial in ensuring a fair division of assets during divorce.

Child Custody

Child custody, known as timesharing in Florida, is an essential aspect of divorce when minor children are involved. Parents can either agree on a parenting plan or, if they cannot reach an agreement, the court will make the determination based on the best interests of the child.

Florida recognizes both physical custody (where the child lives) and legal custody (decision-making authority for the child). Joint legal custody is the norm, unless one parent is deemed unfit due to domestic violence or other factors. Joint physical custody allows both parents to spend time with the child, with child-rearing costs generally borne by the parent who has physical custody at any given time.

Child Support

Child support in Florida is not automatically guaranteed after divorce. The courts consider various factors when determining child support, including the economic circumstances of both parents, the custody arrangement, any special needs of the children, and any agreements made in the parenting plan. Support may also include covering the costs of medical care through one parent’s employer’s insurance.

It’s essential to note that child support and custody are separate matters, and if one parent falls behind on support payments, the custodial parent cannot withhold the other parent’s time with the child. Instead, the appropriate course of action is to file a motion with the court.

Alimony

Alimony, also known as spousal support, is not guaranteed in Florida divorces. Several types of alimony may be awarded, with rehabilitative alimony being the most common. Rehabilitative alimony is provided for a fixed period and aims to assist a spouse in getting back on their feet after divorce. Factors considered when determining alimony include the length of the marriage, earning capacity of each spouse, standard of living during the marriage, and contributions to the marriage.

Conclusion

Divorce in Florida involves several noteworthy requirements and considerations, from residency requirements to child custody and property division. Understanding the laws and guidelines can help ensure a smoother divorce process. If you have questions or need support during this challenging time, consider seeking professional advice and assistance.

FAQs

Q: Can I file for divorce in Florida if I recently moved here? A: No, you must meet the state’s residency requirement of living in Florida for at least six months before filing for divorce.

Q: Is it better to file for a no-fault or fault divorce? A: It depends on the specific circumstances of your case. In general, no-fault divorces are simpler and less expensive, while fault divorces may be considered in cases where one spouse’s actions significantly contributed to the breakdown of the marriage.

Q: What factors determine child custody in Florida? A: The court considers the best interests of the child, including the ability of each parent to provide a stable and loving environment, the child’s relationship with each parent, and any history of domestic violence or neglect.

Q: How is alimony calculated in Florida? A: Alimony is determined based on various factors, including the length of the marriage, each spouse’s financial situation, and contributions to the marriage. There is no strict formula for calculating alimony, and it is subject to the court’s discretion.

Q: Can I modify child support or alimony arrangements after the divorce is finalized? A: Yes, in certain circumstances, child support or alimony arrangements can be modified if there has been a substantial change in circumstances, such as a significant change in income or the needs of the child.