How to Get a Divorce Yourself in Florida
In Florida, a do-it-yourself divorce is referred to as a simplified dissolution of marriage. In order to qualify for this type of divorce proceeding, you and your spouse must meet certain guidelines. You must both agree that no marital reconciliation is possible, and that there are serious defects in your marriage. You must have no minor children under the age of 18, and the wife may not be pregnant. In addition, neither spouse may seek alimony payment and both spouses must agree on the division of property, marital debts and obligations. Either you or your spouse must also have lived in Florida for at least six months prior to filing for divorce.
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Instructions
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Complete the necessary paperwork. File a Petition for Simplified Dissolution of Marriage, Financial Affidavit, Notice of Social Security Number and Marital Settlement Agreement with the clerk of the circuit court in the county where you reside. Both you and your spouse must complete separate Financial Affidavits and Social Security Number forms, but only one Marital Settlement Agreement needs to be filed. Forms are available at the clerk's office. Be sure to bring proof of Florida residency to court when you file your forms.
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Pay the filing fee. Check with your local circuit court clerk regarding the appropriate fee for your county. If you or your spouse cannot afford the fee, fill out an Application for Determination of Civil Indigent Status to see if you can have the fee waived.
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Attend the court hearing with your spouse. Bring your completed Final Judgment of Simplified Dissolution of Divorce form with you to court. This form is available at your local court clerk's office. If the judge agrees that all of your documents are in order, he or she will sign the Final Judgment form and grant you a divorce.
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