Divorce can be a confusing process, so where does one begin? Start by reading these 10 things Florida residents should know about divorce, including requirements and how to begin the process.
1. You or your spouse must be a legal resident of the state of Florida.
2. Commonly known as a “dissolution” of marriage, the divorce begins by filing a “Petition for the Dissolution of Marriage.”
3. It is important to understand that any assets and debts obtained during the marriage, referred to as “marital assets,” will be divided “equitably” (fairly) upon divorce.
4. It will be up to the judge’s discretion to divide assets equally, and there may possibly be a basis unless there is a basis for unequal distribution such as kids or salary contributions.
5. A court can order alimony if it is “well-founded.”
6. If you and your spouse cannot come to an agreement on child custody, the court will make a decision based on what is in the “best interest” of the child.
7. Divorce laws in Florida include child support guidelines that judges use to figure out the support needed for a child and how much each parent has to pay.
8. To save time and money later on, make copies of tax returns, bank statements, mortgage documents and any other financial information possible.
9. Any debt incurred before the marriage, such as educational debt, is not considered while dividing debts.
10. It is important to think about how a divorce will change your taxes.
For more information, check out the full article. Read more >>
Source: Attorneys.com