Navigating Divorce Proceedings: What Happens in a Florida Divorce?

If you’ve recently made the decision to divorce, then you likely want to prepare yourself for the process as best you can. That brought you here, to our blog, which provides resources on how the divorce process works, key elements of divorce, and Florida’s legal standards when it comes to divorce cases. In this article, we want to touch on the divorce process and how it will likely unfold in your divorce.

Temporary orders and hearings 

Once you’ve filed your papers and served your spouse with the Petition for the Dissolution of Marriage, the actual divorce process begins. During divorce proceedings, temporary orders can be issued to address immediate concerns such as child support, child custody, and alimony. These orders are meant to stabilize your situation and ensure that there is some order in place with regards to the children.

Alimony can also be awarded during the divorce process (and after). If one spouse shows that they have a need for alimony and the other spouse demonstrates the ability to pay, the court can award alimony on a temporary basis during the divorce proceedings.

Understanding the purpose of temporary orders is important. They can be used to establish precedent and influence the final outcome.

The court will hold preliminary hearings to discuss these temporary orders. It’s important to be prepared for these hearings by gathering relevant documents and understanding your rights and responsibilities. Working with a Largo family law attorney can help you navigate the process and ensure that your interests are represented. Preliminary hearings are a critical part of the divorce process and set the stage for future negotiations.

Mediation and settlement 

Mediation is a major step in the divorce process. It offers a cheaper way to approach divorce and allows the parties to settle their affairs according to their own wishes. It also offers a platform for both parties to negotiate a fair settlement. The mediation process is less adversarial than traditional litigation carried out in front of a judge. It often leads to amicable resolutions. Those who understand the benefits of mediation and approach it with an open mind can save themselves a considerable amount of money in court and legal fees.

During mediation, the two parties will work with a neutral third-party mediator who will help them resolve outstanding issues related to their divorce by explaining the law and how a dispute would play out in court.

Court proceedings and final judgment 

If you cannot come to terms during mediation, the case will proceed to court. Understanding the court process is crucial. It involves presenting evidence, calling witnesses, and making legal arguments that advocate for your position.

Ultimately, the judge will issue a final judgment that officially dissolves the marriage. This is an important hearing that determines the final terms of your divorce. Working closely with your attorney will ensure that your case is presented effectively and that your interests are represented. Once a final judgment has been issued, it marks the end of the legal process, and both parties can move forward.

Talk to a Largo, FL Divorce Lawyer Today 

Cairns Law, P.A. represents the interests of Largo residents in divorce cases. Call our Clearwater family attorneys today to schedule an appointment, and we can begin advocating on your behalf right away.