Why Aren’t There Juries In Florida Divorce Trials?

When most of us picture what a trial looks like, we think of judges, lawyers, and juries. But if you’re approaching a divorce trial in Florida, you should know that you’ll never see a jury in the courtroom during this process. But why is this? Aren’t you guaranteed the right to a trial by jury in the constitution? If there’s no jury, then how do you know your trial is being conducted in a fair manner?

These are all perfectly valid questions, and they’re probably best left answered by a legal professional – such as a divorce lawyer in Florida. You can ask your lawyer these questions during your first consultation. During this initial meeting, your lawyer can also answer any questions you might have and provide you with targeted advice catered specifically towards your unique situation. If you’re approaching a divorce trial in Florida, your lawyer will become a vital part of your team. As such, it’s important to choose the best possible candidate you can find.

All Family Law Trials Proceed without a Jury in Florida 

All family law trials occur without juries in Florida – not just divorce trials. While other states may allow juries to decide divorce trials, Florida is not one of them. Only 11 states currently allow juries for divorce trials, and even among this handful of states, juries are only present in rare circumstances. While it’s true that Florida may allow juries to decide trials involving paternity, chances are you’ll never see a jury inside a courtroom during a divorce trial.

Why Aren’t Juries Allowed? 

The general feeling among judges in Florida is that divorces should be kept as quiet and as professional as possible. Having spouses spill their secrets in public isn’t exactly ideal, and these judges want to keep excessive levels of emotions outside of court. When you’re “performing” in front of a jury, things tend to get much more dramatic compared to a quiet meeting in a judge’s chambers or office.

Is This a Bad Thing? 

Jury trials are inherently unpredictable, making them a bit of a headache in most situations. In contrast, a judge bases their decisions on established facts, precedents, and supporting documents. This means that in many ways, a judge’s decision is actually preferable to that of a jury. At the very least, you know exactly what you’re going to get, and most judges are fair and unbiased in Florida.

Enlist the Help of a Qualified Attorney Today

 If you’ve been searching for a qualified, experienced Orlando divorce attorney, look no further than Steve Marsee, P.A. We know that a divorce trial can feel like an extremely daunting experience, but you should know that you’re not alone in this battle. We’ll guide you towards the best possible outcome and prepare you for your trial, allowing you to proceed with confidence. Internet research can only get you so far – so book your consultation today to get started.

Source:

 law.cornell.edu/wex/bench_trial#:~:text=Bench%20trial%20refers%20to%20the,case%20and%20applies%20the%20law