Florida Divorce Guide – Section 3
Collaboration in Law
Those who want to dissolve their marriage amicably with the help of trained professionals may want to look into the collaborative dissolution process.
The collaborative practice of law is a voluntary dispute resolution process that can begin before or after a party files a petition for divorce with a court. Both parties and their attorneys sign a collaborative participation agreement that describes the nature and scope of the matter; the parties voluntarily disclose all relevant and material information; the parties negotiate in good faith; and the parties may engage joint neutral mental health and financial professionals to assist with their negotiations.
The collaborative process’s goal is for the parties to enter into a written settlement agreement that addresses all issues, such as a parenting plan, asset and debt division, alimony, child support, and attorney’s fees and costs. Should the collaborative process be unsuccessful in whole or in part, the parties must discharge the attorneys and other professionals and begin a contested dissolution proceeding through the court.
If you want to learn more about the collaborative practice of family law, look for a collaboratively trained family law attorney near you.
Court Proceedings for Dissolution
There are two ways to file for a dissolution of marriage in a Florida court. The most common method is referred to as a “Regular Dissolution of Marriage.” The “Simplified Dissolution of Marriage” is the second method. Law of Families Forms for dissolution, domestic violence, and other related issues can be found on the website of the Florida Courts.
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