Florida Uncontested Divorce
When a Florida couple that wishes to divorce meets certain requirements, they can participate in an “uncontested divorce” proceeding. When both spouses agree to the terms of property division, alimony, child support, and custody it is possible to be eligible for this procedure. Going through an uncontested divorce has many advantages over the long, expensive, and mentally exhausting process of a regular, contested divorce.
Requirements for an Uncontested Divorce
The requirements for an uncontested divorce are fairly simple in practice; however, because of the nature of divorce, this practice is not commonly used. In order to qualify for an uncontested divorce, the following must be present:
· They must both want the divorce;
· They must agree to the terms and conditions of the distribution of marital property and liabilities;
· They must agree to the terms of alimony – how long and for how long; and
· They must agree to the terms of child custody, visitation, and support.
Benefits of an Uncontested Divorce
For many divorcing couples, coming together to amicably decide divorce terms can seem inconceivable. However, a divorce attorney with experience as an uncontested divorce mediator can help negotiate a settlement that is beneficial to both parties and simplify the process for everyone involved. Some of the other benefits of an uncontested divorce include:
Reduced costs
Negotiating a divorce settlement outside of the courtroom greatly reduces the costs for all parties involved. Normally, the only court cost associated with an uncontested divorce is a small administrative fee, as opposed to the hours of court costs involved with a contested divorce. In addition, the typical attorneys’ fees involved in a contested divorce are also dramatically decreased given how quickly an uncontested divorce normally takes.
Greater control
During a contested divorce, the judge making the final decisions about the divorce terms is restricted by arbitrary guidelines, and both spouses are bound to whatever the judge decides. In an uncontested divorce, both spouses are able to craft their own customized solutions for the divorce that are not bound to a judge’s arbitrary guidelines.
Less stress
This type of divorce also reduces the stress involved with a full courtroom divorce proceeding. You and your children can avoid the public ordeal of a trial in addition to all of the stressful issues that come with it.
Quicker resolution
Uncontested divorces are also finalized much faster than a contested divorce proceeding. A contested divorce can take up to a year or more to be finalized. Because there is no need for appeals or additional disputes, an uncontested divorce can be finalized in as little as three to five weeks.
Call a Florida Divorce Attorney Today
If you and your spouse are willing to work together to agree on the terms of your divorce, you may qualify for an uncontested divorce procedure. As a certified marital and family law mediator, Florida divorce attorney Steve W. Marsee has a history of working with his clients to resolve sensitive divorce issues through negotiation whenever possible. Call or contact the office of Steve W. Marsee, P.A. today to discuss your case.