Divorce stems when a relationship doesn’t seem to progress forward. But that isn’t the only reason for it. Abusive relationships, extramarital affairs, and alcoholism are among the several other reasons for divorce. At the end of the day, divorcing your partner means that one or both partners no longer wish to continue a relationship. What, then, is the purpose of a separation period before a divorce can be finalized?
As absurd as it may sound, a specific separation period before a divorce is mandatory in several states across America. Blame the lawmakers for this insanity; this particular law is as insignificant as Fabrizio in Titanic. Let’s see whether Florida has hopped on this bandwagon of lunacy or has a more advanced approach toward divorce.
Do You Have To Be Separate Before Divorce In Florida?
As suggested above, various states of America require a separation period for couples before they can opt for a divorce. This period contrasts for all states but moves back and forth between six months to a year.
The main idea behind this law is to allow couples to give their relationship another chance. Little do these naive lawmakers know that people don’t get up one day and decide they want a divorce. It is a series of unfortunate events that compel them to take this decision.
Luckily, Floridian law does not require any separation period before individuals can file for divorce. While they have other requirements for the completion of a divorce, encouraging couples to spend time apart to think about what they haven’t already thought before is not one of them.
What Requirement Do You Need To Fulfill For A Divorce In Florida?
Florida gives more importance to a residency requirement. The law presiding in Florida states that either of the individuals in a relationship has been residing in Florida for at least 6 months before the divorce is filed with the authorities. This means that the Floridian authorities can undertake the divorce even if a single spouse has been dwelling in Florida for 6 months prior to a divorce.
Your residence in Florida can be approved only if you meet one of the following three requirements:
● A driver’s license issued in Florida
● Registration card as a voter from Florida
● Third-party eye witness giving testimony of the individuals’ residency in Florida
How Can Non-Residents Of Florida Seek Divorce?
This above option is valid for residents of Florida ONLY! Residents of other states that moved to Florida in hopes of a speedy divorce, unfortunately, need to take the sorrowful ride back home.
However, Florida is not the only paradise for couples seeking a divorce. Those people can still travel to other states where they meet the residency requirements and don’t have to follow a separation requirement.
How Long Does It Take For Your Divorce To Be Finalized In Florida?
Much like other matters that involve the intervention of the law, the speed of settling a divorce too depends on multiple factors such as:
● Contested or uncontested divorce?
● Child custody matters or asset division?
● Ability of spouse to reach an agreement?
● The experience of the divorce attorney representing them?