Divorce
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Fort Lauderdale Divorce Attorney
Going through divorce is different for every family member who is confronted with such a life-changing process. Divorces can range from extremely complex matters to quick and simplified dissolutions of marriage. Nonetheless, one of the most challenging aspects of a divorce is when you must make multiple critical decisions simultaneously. Some of these decisions can address custody of your children, ways you will remain financially stable, and how to keep you mental and emotional health level in the face of such heated negotiations. At GFC LAW, we strive to make the entire divorce process for our clients as smooth and stress-free as possible. Attorney Gary F. Celetti, Jr. has over 20 years of unique experience as a former police officer, so you can trust that he will take care of your situation with professional and knowledgeable hands.
Schedule a free consultation with GFC LAW online or at (954) 635-2251 to discuss your case in more detail. We also offer competitive pricing to ensure you get the efficient and affordable legal support you deserve.
Filing for Divorce in Florida
Florida is a no-fault divorce state, which means that either spouse may seek a divorce without proving any particular reason (grounds) for it. To file for divorce, the petitioning party merely needs to state that the marriage is “irretrievably broken,” and the other spouse does not need to agree to the divorce for the separation proceedings to move forward. Note that there is a residency requirement to file for divorce, which states that either spouse must have lived in Florida for at least 6 months before filing.
Two Types of Dissolution
Florida grants spouse two different options for pursuing divorce – simplified dissolution or traditional dissolution. A simplified dissolution of marriage is often quicker and less complicated. Couples seeking a simplified dissolution must fill out all the necessary documents and appear together before a judge, who will grant the final divorce decree after reviewing their submitted forms, settlement agreement, and other paperwork.
Spouses who meet all the following criteria may file for a simplified dissolution:
- they mutually agree the marriage can’t be saved;
- they don’t share any minor or dependent children and do not expect any;
- neither spouse is seeking alimony;
- both spouses have agreed to a written settlement dividing assets and debts; and
- both spouses agree to the simplified procedure which includes relinquishing the right to a trial and appeal.
A traditional dissolution proceeding tends to be lengthier than the simplified process and begins when either spouse files a “Petition for Dissolution of Marriage” with the court. The petition establishes the grounds for divorce and lays out what the filing spouse seeks in terms of property division, alimony, child custody, and child support. After filing the petition and appropriate forms with the court, the spouse must then “serve” (deliver) a copy of the petition to the other spouse. The other spouse may consequently file an “Answer to the Petition” or agree to the terms set forth by the petition. In most cases, spouses are able to reach an agreement on their own or with a mediator’s help outside of the court. If spouses are unable to reach an agreement and resolve all their disputes, they will have to go to trial and have a judge make the final settlement decision.
Seek a Zealous Divorce Lawyer for Legal Support
If you are facing a divorce in Fort Lauderdale, you might have legal questions, fears, or concerns. When you are dealing with such important life-altering decisions, it is important to have an experienced divorce lawyer help guide you through the legal process. GFC LAW can provide you the support and representation you need to resolve your divorce both in and out of trial.
Let GFC LAW help you through these very difficult times between you and your family. Call (954) 635-2251 or contact the firm online to schedule a free initial consultation today