Going through a divorce can often be one of the most stressful situations in a person's life. Regardless of what terms you and your ex are on, starting a new chapter of your life alone can be daunting. What's more, if your friends and family don't support your decision to move forward with the divorce, this can put an even heavier weight on your shoulders. And, if there are kids, pets, or other items of contention to be considered, it can be even more difficult.

Understanding what is involved in actually filing for divorce in Florida can help to alleviate some of this stress and anxiety. Simply knowing the steps that you need to follow will give you one less thing that you will need to worry about. As divorce can be a complex process, be sure to get in touch with an experienced divorce attorney in Jacksonville to help you to navigate the process with a little more certainty.

Below our divorce attorneys at Gordon Shayne Law outline the step-by-step process you need to follow if you want to file for divorce.

Get The Petition For Dissolution Of Marriage Prepared

There are two different ways that you can file for divorce in Jacksonville or any other place in Florida; a simplified petition or a regular petition for dissolution of marriage. A simplified dissolution of marriage will need to be prepared if your divorce is uncontested. On the other hand, if your divorce is contested, you will need to prepare a regular dissolution of marriage. Be sure to consult with our divorce attorney to ensure you prepare the right document.

Prepare The Summons For The Florida Court Clerk

Next, you will need to prepare the summons, a document which the Florida clerk will sign to allow the process server to serve the papers to your ex. There are three different types of service that you can use; personal service, service by email, mail, or personal delivery or constructive service. Your divorce lawyer will be able to help you to prepare your summons.

Prepare SS Affidavit, Non-Military/ Military Affidavit & UCCJEA Affidavits

When you are filing for divorce in Florida, you are required to complete a number of affidavits, including a social security affidavit, a non-military/military affidavit, and a Uniform Child Custody Jurisdiction and Enforcement Act (UCCJEA) affidavit before you can move forward with proceedings in Jacksonville. You must also complete a financial affidavit within forty-five days of the petition being served.

Get A Settlement Agreement In Place

With the help of your divorce lawyer, you will need to work to get a settlement agreement in place for your divorce. Some things that you and your attorney will need to pay close attention to include marital assets, child custody, alimony, child support, and the impact of the divorce on your taxes moving forward.

File The Divorce Forms

When all of the forms have been completed, they can be submitted to the Jacksonville circuit court or the local circuit court where you live. Before filing the petition, you will need to have it notarized, which can usually be done in the courthouse. You will also need to pay a divorce fee and you must provide your ex with a copy of the filed petition for dissolution of marriage.

Hire The Right Divorce Lawyer In Jacksonville, FL For Your Case

To ensure that your divorce goes as smoothly as possible, you need to ensure you hire the best divorce attorney in Jacksonville, FL that you can find. With the right legal representation, you will have every chance of getting the best outcome from your case. Here at Gordon Shayne Law, we have the experience and expertise to help you navigate your divorce successfully. Get in touch with our team at Gordon Shayne Law today to find out how we can help you to get the best possible outcome from your divorce case.