What You Need to Know About Online Divorce in Florida
The internet has dramatically revolutionized many aspects of life, so it is not surprising that people can now file for divorce online in Florida. Here’s everything you need to know about online divorce in Florida.
Although filing for divorce online is not as easy as it might sound, doing so may be a good option for couples who have an uncontested divorce case. Online divorce is often an affordable and fast solution for those seeking to file for marriage dissolution in Florida. However, spouses may still benefit from consulting a lawyer to help them correctly fill out the appropriate forms.
What is an Online Divorce?
Online divorce is a virtual service that assists with the divorce process. Online divorce services streamline the preparation of divorce papers and divorce settlement agreements. Online divorce services can also inform individuals where to file divorce paperwork in their area.
Online divorces are recommended for spouses seeking an uncontested divorce. An uncontested divorce is when both parties agree to a divorce and on all divorce-related matters, like alimony, division of property, and child support.
Can I Get a Divorce Online in Florida?
Yes, Florida allows online divorces. Online divorce services are valid since there is no requirement that attorneys must draft divorce papers or agreements. However, speaking with an attorney or utilizing an online divorce service may help spouses navigate divorce paperwork.
Related: Contested and Uncontested Divorce: The Difference
How Does Online Divorce in Florida Work?
Online divorces simplify the divorce process. There are multiple third-party websites that have streamlined the process to help Floridians get divorced from the comfort of their home. Spouses can register for an online divorce service, pay a fee, and begin entering their information to complete the paperwork.
Online divorce services can be a very affordable option for most spouses. Depending on the website, fees range between $125 and $175, although spouses can set up an installment plan. However, online divorce services do not cover the filing fees; those are subject to the spouses’ jurisdiction, but are typically between $200 and $300.
Online divorce services provide simplified explanations and examples with most questions on the divorce paperwork. As long as the account is active, there is no set deadline or time frame to complete the paperwork, and spouses can work on it together or separately and make revisions at any point.
Divorce papers are not legally binding until both parties sign and file documents with the court. Online divorce services can provide locations for spouses to file the paperwork within their area but cannot do the filing themselves. After a judge reviews the paperwork, they will issue a divorce decree and finalize the divorce.
Related: How To Get A Cheap Divorce
What Can an Online Divorce Service Not Do?
Online divorce services cannot give legal advice unless a licensed attorney operates the website. Online divorce services cannot issue a final divorce decree or mediate disputes; instead, online divorce services aid in drafting paperwork and agreements.
Florida requires individuals to file finished paperwork with their local court. The rest of the divorce process, such as court hearings, will likely be in person.
Filing Requirements for Online Divorce in Florida
To file for Florida divorce online, a case must satisfy the following requirements:
- An irretrievably broken marriage. Since Florida does not require fault in a divorce, both spouses can agree that their marriage is “irretrievably broken” to be eligible for divorce. Although either spouse’s fault can be considered in the divorce proceeding, it is not relevant for filing.
- Residency requirements. To file for online divorce in Florida, one spouse must have resided in the state for the preceding six months.
- Online course. Florida law requires couples with children to take a mandatory 4-hour parent course before filing for divorce. The course is meant to inform parents of their responsibilities to their children during the divorce process.
How Long Does an Online Divorce in Florida Take?
In Florida, the online divorce process length may be influenced by the following factors:
- Caseload of a specific court
- Complexity of a divorce situation
- Other court cases related to the marriage dissolution
While online divorces can simplify and expedite the divorce process, they can still take a considerable amount of time. The average length of an online divorce process is 2-3 months in uncontested cases, and around a year or more in contested ones. Therefore, negotiating a specific settlement between spouses might help dissolve the marriage faster.
Contact Us
If you or a loved one would like to learn more about online divorce in Florida, get your free consultation with one of our divorce attorneys today!