How to Get a Divorce in Tampa with Mindi Lasley
Going through a divorce can be one of the most challenging experiences in life. Understanding the legal process in Florida, particularly in Tampa and Hillsborough County, can help make this transition smoother.
Understanding Florida Divorce Laws
Florida operates under a “no-fault” divorce system, which means that you do not need to prove that either spouse was responsible for the breakdown of the marriage. According to Florida Statute §61.052, the primary grounds for divorce are irreconcilable differences or mental incapacity of one of the spouses.
Residency Requirements
- At least one spouse must have lived in Florida for a minimum of six months before filing for divorce.
- You must file in the circuit court of the county where either you or your spouse resides.
Filing for Divorce in Tampa and Hillsborough County
Here are the steps you need to take to file for divorce in Tampa:
- File a Petition: The divorce process begins when one spouse (the petitioner) files a Petition for Dissolution of Marriage.
- Serve Papers: The petitioner must serve the other spouse (the respondent) with divorce papers.
- Responding to the Petition: The respondent has 20 days to file an answer to the petition.
- Financial Disclosure: Both parties must exchange financial information and documents.
- Settlement and Mediation: Many cases are settled through negotiation or mediation. If an agreement is reached, a Marital Settlement Agreement is drafted.
- Final Hearing: If everything is in order, a judge will sign the Final Judgment of Dissolution of Marriage.
Key Considerations in a Florida Divorce
Division of Assets and Liabilities
Florida follows the principle of “equitable distribution,” meaning that marital assets and liabilities are divided fairly but not necessarily equally. Marital assets include anything acquired during the marriage, while non-marital assets include property owned before the marriage.
Alimony
Alimony can be awarded to a spouse based on several factors such as the standard of living during the marriage, the duration of the marriage, and each spouse’s financial resources. Learn more about Florida’s alimony laws through Florida Statute §61.08.
Child Custody and Support
In Florida, the best interest of the child is the primary consideration in determining custody arrangements. Child support is calculated based on each parent’s income and the needs of the child. Detailed guidelines are provided in Florida Statute §61.30.
Frequently Asked Questions
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| How long does it take to get a divorce in Florida? | The timeline varies but an uncontested divorce can take 30-90 days, while a contested divorce can take much longer. |
| Can I get a divorce without going to court? | If both parties agree on all terms, you may be able to finalize the divorce without a court hearing. |
| What if my spouse refuses to sign the divorce papers? | You can still obtain a divorce, but it will be considered contested and may require a court hearing. |
Local Resources
| Resource | Contact |
|---|---|
| Hillsborough County Clerk of Court | https://www.hillsclerk.com/ |
| The Spring of Tampa Bay (Domestic Violence Support) | https://www.thespring.org/ |
| Tampa Family Resources Center | https://childrenshomenetwork.org/tampa-family-resource-center/ |
Why Choose Mindi Lasley, P.A.
For those searching for exceptional legal support during a divorce, Mindi Lasley, P.A. offers compassionate and experienced representation. With a deep commitment to her clients, Mindi Lasley understands the complexities of family law and is dedicated to helping you achieve the best possible outcome.
Located at 11005 N Marion St, Tampa, FL 33602, you can reach out to Mindi Lasley, P.A., through our website lasleyfamilylaw.com. Call for a free consulation at
