Divorce, or dissolution of marriage, is the legal termination of a marital relationship. In Florida, there are two ways to get a divorce: a simplified dissolution of marriage or a regular dissolution of marriage.
The type of divorce you choose depends on your situation and preferences.
Simplified dissolution of marriage
A simplified dissolution of marriage is a faster and easier way to end your marriage. However, you and your spouse must meet certain criteria. You both must agree that the marriage cannot be saved and want to end it.
You cannot have any minor or dependent children, and the wife cannot be pregnant. You must have agreed on how to divide your assets and debts. And, finally, you both must be willing to go to the final hearing together, and there will be no trial and no ability to appeal.
To start a simplified dissolution of marriage, you need to fill out a Petition for Simplified Dissolution of Marriage (Form 12.901(a)). You also need to provide a copy of your marriage certificate, financial affidavits and a settlement agreement that outlines how you will divide your property and debts.
Regular dissolution of marriage
A regular dissolution of marriage is more complex and may involve issues such as alimony, child custody, child support and property division. A regular dissolution of marriage can be either uncontested or contested.
Uncontested dissolution of marriage
An uncontested dissolution of marriage means that you and your spouse agree on all the terms of your divorce and do not need a trial. To start an uncontested dissolution of marriage, you need to fill out a Petition for Dissolution of Marriage (Form 12.901(b)(1) or (b)(2)).
You also need to provide other documents, such as financial affidavits, parenting plan, child support guidelines worksheet, marital settlement agreement and notice of social security number.
Contested dissolution of marriage
A contested dissolution of marriage means that you and your spouse disagree on some or all of the terms of your divorce and need a trial to resolve them. To start a contested dissolution of marriage, you need to fill out a Petition for Dissolution of Marriage (Form 12.901(b)(1) or (b)(2)). You also need to provide other documents, such as financial affidavits, notice of Social Security number and summons.