Divorce is never easy, but it doesn’t have to be expensive. If you’re facing a divorce in Florida, there are options available to help you save money. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you through the process of getting a divorce in Florida for free.
Why Consider Getting a Divorce for Free?
Trying to end a marriage can be a costly endeavor. According to Forbes, the average cost of a divorce in the United States is $15,000. This can be a significant financial burden, especially if you’re already struggling with the emotional and logistical challenges of divorce.
Steps to Getting a Divorce for Free in Florida
1. Determine Your Eligibility for Pro Se Divorce
In Florida, you can represent yourself in a divorce without the need for an attorney, known as a pro se divorce. To be eligible, you must meet the following criteria:
- Both parties must agree to get a divorce.
- There are no minor children involved.
- Both parties agree on how to divide assets and debts.
- Neither party has any domestic violence or restraining orders against the other.
2. File the Necessary Paperwork
The first step in filing for a pro se divorce is to obtain the necessary paperwork from the clerk of court in the county where you reside. The required forms may vary depending on your county, but typically include:
- Petition for Dissolution of Marriage
- Financial Affidavit
- Certificate of Dissolution of Marriage
3. Complete the Paperwork
Filling out the paperwork can be a daunting task, so take your time and make sure you understand each question thoroughly. If you have any questions, don’t hesitate to ask the clerk of court for assistance.
4. File the Paperwork with the Court
Once you have completed the paperwork, file it with the clerk of court along with the required filing fee. The filing fee varies by county but is typically around $400. If you cannot afford the filing fee, you can request a waiver from the court.
5. Serve Your Spouse with the Papers
Once the paperwork is filed, you must serve your spouse with a copy of the petition and summons. You can do this yourself or hire a process server.
6. Attend the Final Hearing
After your spouse has been served, a final hearing will be scheduled. At the hearing, the judge will review your paperwork and ask you questions to ensure you understand the process. If the judge approves your divorce, they will sign the final decree.
7. Obtain a Certified Copy of Your Divorce Decree
Once the judge has signed the final decree, you can obtain a certified copy from the clerk of court. This is the official document that will legally dissolve your marriage.
Source www.vitalrecordsonline.com
Comparison Table: How to Get a Divorce for Free in Florida vs. Hiring an Attorney
| Option | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Pro Se Divorce | – No attorney fees – Can proceed at your own pace – Greater control over the process | – Can be time-consuming – May be difficult to navigate the legal system – Risk of making mistakes |
| Hiring an Attorney | – Professional guidance throughout the process – Attorney can negotiate on your behalf – Ensures your legal rights are protected | – High cost – May not always be necessary – Less control over the process |
Conclusion
Getting a divorce is a difficult process, but it doesn’t have to be expensive. If you meet the eligibility requirements, getting a divorce for free in Florida is a viable option. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can save thousands of dollars while still getting the legal dissolution of your marriage.
Don’t miss out on our other helpful articles:
- How to Get a Divorce in Florida Without a Lawyer
- How to File for Divorce in Florida
- What to Do After You Get a Divorce in Florida
FAQ about How to Get a Divorce in Florida for Free
P – How do I file for divorce without a lawyer in Florida?
A – You can file for divorce without a lawyer by using the official Florida Family Law Self-Help forms. These forms are available online and at the clerk’s office in your county courthouse.
A – What is the cost of filing for divorce in Florida?
S – The cost of filing for divorce in Florida varies depending on the county where you file. The filing fee is typically around $400, and there may be additional costs for serving your spouse with the divorce papers.
P – How long does it take to get a divorce in Florida?
A – The time it takes to get a divorce in Florida varies depending on the circumstances of your case. If you and your spouse agree on all the terms of the divorce, you can get a divorce in as little as 20 days. However, if you and your spouse cannot agree, the divorce process can take much longer.
P – What are the grounds for divorce in Florida?
A – The grounds for divorce in Florida are:
- Irretrievable breakdown of the marriage
- Mental incapacity
- Adultery
- Felony conviction
- Habitual drunkenness
- Extreme cruelty
S – What is the difference between a contested and uncontested divorce?
A – A contested divorce is a divorce in which you and your spouse cannot agree on the terms of the divorce. An uncontested divorce is a divorce in which you and your spouse agree on all the terms of the divorce.
P – What is a divorce mediator?
A – A divorce mediator is a neutral third party who helps couples resolve their differences and reach an agreement on the terms of their divorce.
P – What are the benefits of using a divorce mediator?
A – The benefits of using a divorce mediator include:
- Lower cost than hiring a lawyer
- More control over the outcome of your divorce
- Reduced stress and conflict
P – How do I choose a divorce mediator?
A – When choosing a divorce mediator, you should consider the following factors:
- Experience and qualifications
- Cost
- Availability
- Location
P – What happens after I file for divorce?
A – After you file for divorce, your spouse will be served with the divorce papers. Your spouse then has 20 days to file a response. If your spouse does not file a response, you can request a default judgment of divorce.
P – How can I get help paying for my divorce?
A – There are several ways to get help paying for your divorce, including:
- Legal aid organizations
- Pro bono lawyers
- Payment plans
