What Documents Do I Need To File For A Divorce In Fort Lauderdale?
Facing the fact that your marriage is over and filing for a Fort Lauderdale divorce requires dealing with complex and often overwhelming emotions. The divorce process is confusing and difficult to navigate without legal help, particularly when it comes to collecting and filing all the required documents.
Our experienced Fort Lauderdale divorce lawyer provides the caring support and practical help you need during this challenging time. The following explains the common types of information you need to gather now and the documents often required when filing for a divorce in Broward County.
Documents To Gather Now If You Are Considering A Fort Lauderdale Divorce
Whether you intend to file for a divorce through the Broward County Family Court or are simply exploring your options, there are important documents you need to gather to protect yourself and your rights. These include:
- Your marriage license, you and your spouse’s Social Security numbers, and birth certificates for your children;
- The title to your home or any other property you and your spouse possess;
- Receipts or other proof of purchase for high-value items, such as vehicles, electronics, and artwork;
- Proof of bank account balances and investments;
- Statements showing each party’s income and any pension or other retirement benefits they may be entitled to;
- Credit card bills and notes for personal loans;
- Any pre or postnuptial agreements in place;
- Photos, emails, or other evidence of affairs, struggles with addiction, or other marital misconduct on the part of your spouse.
Documents Required In Fort Lauderdale Divorce Proceedings
Under the Florida Statutes, divorce is referred to as Dissolution of Marriage. The type of divorce you file for depends on factors such as whether you and your spouse agree to the terms or if children are involved.
Rather than citing specific divorce grounds, the only requirement for a divorce in Florida is ‘irreconcilable differences.’ Legal documents that are required often include:
- Petition for Dissolution of Marriage, officially requesting the termination of the marriage and outlining your desired outcomes regarding marital property division, child time-sharing, and support.
- Notice of Action, informing your spouse of the divorce, with a Summons to appear in court;
- Notice of Automatic Injunction form, protecting marital assets from being depleted during divorce proceedings;
- A Financial Affidavit providing detailed information about your financial situation, including income, expenses, assets, and liabilities;
- Marital Settlement Agreement, provided you and your spouse are able to agree on property division and other divorce-related matters;
- A parenting plan, in cases involving children;
- Child Support Guidelines Worksheet, which is used in calculating child support payments.
Get Professional Legal Representation From Our Experienced Fort Lauderdale Divorce Lawyer
The divorce process can be overwhelming, but you don’t have to face it alone. Fort Lauderdale divorce lawyer Vanessa L. Prieto provides professional legal representation, helping you navigate this challenging time and assisting you in meeting all the legal requirements. Give us a call or contact our office online to request a consultation today.
Sources:
browardclerk.org/Divisions/Family
leg.state.fl.us/statutes/index.cfm?App_mode=Display_Statute&URL=0000-0099/0061/0061.html
