The 30-Day Divorce: Is an Uncontested Filing Right for You?
There are many ways to get divorced in Florida. If you are thinking about ending your marriage, you may not have to face a long and bitter courtroom battle. If you and your spouse agree to all of the terms of the divorce, such as child custody, property division, and more, you may be able to obtain an uncontested divorce.
Additionally, if you and your spouse agree to all terms and you meet certain requirements, you may also be eligible for a simplified dissolution. A simplified dissolution of marriage is a faster process, and your case may be finalized within 30 days. Below, our Florida flat fee divorce attorney explains in greater detail.
Eligibility Requirements for a Simplified Dissolution of Marriage
Not all couples qualify for a simplified dissolution of marriage. To obtain this type of divorce, you must meet the following requirements:
- No children: The couple cannot have minor or dependent children under the age of 18 together. The wife also cannot be pregnant.
- Residency: At least one spouse must have lived in Florida for six consecutive months before filing.
- Agreement: Both parties must also agree that the marital relationship is irretrievably broken. Both spouses must also agree to the terms of dividing assets and debts. Both spouses must also sign the Petition for Simplified Dissolution of Marriage and appear at the final hearing.
- Alimony waiver: Neither spouse can pursue alimony.
- Trial waiver: Both spouses must agree to waive their right to a trial or appeal.
A simplified dissolution of marriage differs slightly from an uncontested divorce. While both spouses must agree to each type of divorce, couples can still obtain an uncontested divorce if they have children and either spouse can still pursue alimony. However, to obtain a 30-day divorce, you must meet the above requirements.
Why is Flat Fee Divorce Right for Simplified Dissolution of Marriage?
A flat-fee divorce has many benefits for couples pursuing a simplified dissolution of marriage. These include:
- Certainty over costs: When obtaining a flat fee divorce, you will know all of the legal costs upfront, which eliminates the concern of mounting hourly attorney fees for cases in which both spouses already agree to the terms of the case.
- Affordability: Packages for flat fee simplified dissolution cases are typically much more affordable, costing anywhere between $1,500 and $2,500. Contested cases can cost tens of thousands of dollars to resolve. Even uncontested cases that are not eligible for simplified dissolution incur greater legal fees.
- Less stressful: When working with a flat fee divorce attorney, you will have the peace of mind that all documents are properly filed with the court and reduce the risk of delays in your final judgement.
Call Our Flat Fee Divorce Attorney in Florida Today
At Florida Law Advisers, P.A., our Florida flat fee divorce attorney can advise on if you are eligible for a simplified dissolution of marriage and guide you through the process so no mistakes are made and it is as easy as possible for you. Call us now at 1 (800) 990-7763 or contact us online to schedule a consultation and to learn more about how we can help.
Source:
flcourts.gov/Services/Family-Courts/domestic-relations-court-resources/family-law-forms/Petition-for-Dissolution-of-Marriage-12.901-Forms-A-B3/Petition-for-Simplified-Dissolution-of-Marriage
