Three Things to Know About Uncontested Divorce Cases in Fort Lauderdale

When many people are thinking about ending their marriage, they often think it will end in a long and bitter courtroom battle. Fortunately, few divorce cases actually end this way. The majority of divorce cases end in a settlement on which both spouses have agreed to. An uncontested divorce is just one way to obtain this type of divorce. There are many benefits associated with uncontested divorces but many people do not know what the process entails. Below, our Fort Lauderdale uncontested divorce lawyer explains in further detail.

Uncontested Divorces Require Full Agreement

Uncontested divorces are cases in which both spouses agree to all the terms of the divorce, including the division of marital property, child custody, alimony, child support, and other terms. When spouses can agree to all of these terms, the court does not have to make any of the final decisions. Instead, a written agreement regarding the terms is drafted and submitted to the court for approval.

If a couple disagrees on even one term of the divorce, the case becomes contested. This does not mean that litigation is necessarily required, however. In most cases when spouses disagree, they can negotiate a settlement through their lawyers or by entering mediation.

Uncontested Divorces Have Many Benefits

There are many benefits for couples that can obtain an uncontested divorce. The main ones of these include:

• Fewer legal hours and court filings result in reduced attorney fees and court costs.
• Instead of taking months like contested divorces, uncontested cases typically take just a few weeks.
• Spouses have better control over the decisions they make because they do not have to rely on a judge.
• A cooperative mindset is necessary for an uncontested divorce, which can reduce the tension and emotional strain of divorce.
• Fewer hearings and minimal court hearings can keep the details of an uncontested divorce confidential.

Uncontested Divorces Have Certain Requirements

All divorce cases in Florida have certain requirements, including uncontested cases. To obtain an uncontested divorce, couples must fulfill the following requirements:

• At least one spouse must have lived in Florida for at least six months.
• Each party must agree that the marital relationship is irretrievably broken.
• Both spouses must agree to all terms of the divorce.
• Each spouse must sign all legal documents, including the marital settlement agreement, and if necessary, appear in court.

In certain cases, couples may also qualify for a simplified dissolution of marriage. The requirements for this type of divorce are stricter but the process can be even faster than obtaining an uncontested divorce.

Our Uncontested Divorce Lawyer in Fort Lauderdale Can Advise On Your Case

An uncontested divorce has many benefits but this type of dissolution is not right for everyone. At Haber Blank, our Fort Lauderdale uncontested divorce lawyer can explain your legal options, help determine which one is right for your situation, and guide you through the process so it is as easy as possible for you. Call us today at 954-767-0300 or contact us online to schedule a consultation and to learn more about how we can help.

Source:

leg.state.fl.us/statutes/index.cfm?App_mode=Display_Statute&URL=0000-0099/0061/0061.html