Requirements to File for Divorce in West Palm Beach

When pursuing a divorce in Palm Beach County, an individual must undergo a series of tasks and meet numerous conditions to get their petition approved by the court. These obligations can seem complex, and it may be difficult to complete all of them without legal assistance. A compassionate and knowledgeable attorney could help you meet every necessary requirement to file for divorce in West Palm Beach and allow you to get started on this important process.

Residency Requirement

To file for divorce in West Palm Beach, the person seeking the action must be a resident of the state of Florida for at least six months prior to the date that they submit a petition to dissolve their marriage. Every person filing for divorce will have to prove this in order to have a successful petition, and there are no exceptions. An individual can provide proof of residency by showing documentation such as a mortgage for a home in the state, a valid drivers’ license, or a recent utility bill. A seasoned attorney could further explain the significance of this requirement during a consultation.

Requirements for Litigated Divorce

The specific requirements of the Palm Beach County divorce process depend on whether the couple decides to go through litigation. When a person files their petition in a litigated case, the opposing party has 20 days to respond. Both parties will have to complete a lot of paperwork in the beginning of their contested divorce case and will be required to compile financial documents and answer questions under oath.

The courts in Palm Beach County require the parties in the divorce case to mediate before they ask for a motion for temporary relief, which is when the court indicates the rights and obligations of the parties while the divorce is pending. After the temporary relief hearing, they may have more discovery to exchange documents, take depositions, or complete business or real estate appraisals. The court would then schedule the case for a final hearing once all of the requirements are met.

The purpose of these requirements is to ensure that the parties have had sufficient time to contemplate the issues of their divorce and are prepared to enter litigation. The two parties should strive to reach an agreement on issues such as a spouse’s need for alimony or a schedule of child support payments so that they can create a divorce plan that satisfies each person’s specific needs.

A West Palm Beach Attorney Could Ensure You Meet Every Requirement to File for Divorce

It is important to go through the process of filing for divorce with a legal professional at your side because the laws in each state dictate their own obligations. An experienced attorney in the area who is aware of the various issues that often arise in divorce cases could help you address them as they become relevant. If you are considering dissolving your marriage, reach out to a skilled lawyer who could explain all of the requirements to file for divorce in West Palm Beach.