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How to Prepare for Your First Meeting with a Divorce Attorney

Planning your first meeting with a divorce attorney can be a little unsettling. This is a big step in your life, and it’s natural to feel nervous or anxious about starting the process. But, if you are prepared and planning to meet with an experienced, caring attorney, you don’t need to worry.

When you go into your first meeting with a divorce attorney with the right information and questions, you can get started off in the right direction. You can speed up the process and create a plan to lead to the best possible outcome for you and your family.

When Is it Time to Meet with a Divorce Attorney?

While you might be putting it off, it’s time to meet with a divorce attorney if:

  • You’ve been thinking about divorce. Meetings with a divorce attorney are completely confidential. If you are thinking about filing for divorce but don’t want your spouse to know, you can meet with an attorney confidentiality to explore your options.
  • You’ve been served with divorce papers. You only have twenty days to respond after being served with divorce papers. Time is of the essence, so plan a meeting with an attorney right away.
  • You’ve decided you want to file for divorce. Once you are ready to file for divorce, start the process by meeting with an attorney to discuss your options.

If you are in any of these situations, look for a divorce attorney who offers free initial consultations (that often take place over the phone). If that goes well, schedule your first in-person meeting.

Prepare for Your First Meeting with a Divorce Attorney

Follow these steps to get ready for your first meeting with a divorce attorney so you feel confident and prepared and have the materials you need to move your case along quickly.

#1) If you’ve been served, bring the divorce papers.

If you’re starting the divorce process because your spouse has filed, bring the divorce papers that were served to you. When you call for your appointment, share the date that you were served so the attorney can plan to see you in the appropriate amount of time. Remember, you only have twenty days to file an answer from the day you were served.

Related: What Happens After Divorce Papers Are Served?

#2) Gather identification for all involved family members.

Bring any and all personal identification information about people in your immediate family, including your current spouse and any children.

#3) Gather financial information.

Bring any documents with financial information such as:

  • Bank statements
  • Credit card statements
  • Account information
  • Tax returns
  • Loan documents

#4) Create a list of assets.

In addition to financial funds, create a list of:

  • Assets to distribute
  • Credits to distribute
  • Debits to distribute
  • Other valuable personal property to distribute

#5) Gather any additional documentation.

In addition to financial and asset information, collect any other documents that are related to your marriage or children. For example, if you have children and you have taken a parenting course in anticipation of the divorce, bring the certificate. Or, if there is alleged physical abuse or taking of funds, bring documentation to support your claim.

#6) Create a timeline of events.

Your attorney is going to need to understand the story of your relationship. Help them by creating a timeline of events that tells the story. Include the date and location of your marriage, the date of separation, and any other dates of important information such as spousal misconduct or problems.

#7) Do initial research on the divorce process.

You will feel more confident if you do a bit of initial research before your meeting. At the minimum, read through our guide on “How to File for Divorce in Florida” to get an idea of how the divorce process works.

#8) Create a list of questions.

Use your time with the divorce attorney to share information as well as ask questions. Ask any questions you have about the process and your situation. Also, question the attorney about their experience, rates, and past cases. Use this time to get educated on the process and the attorney so you can decide if the lawyer is right for you.

Related: A Guide to Understanding Florida Family Law Forms 

#9) Be prepared to be honest and open.

The more you share with your divorce attorney, the better they will be able to help you. As you go into your first meeting with a divorce attorney, be prepared to be open and honest. Share any details that you think are relevant or add context to your situation, and know that your conversation is 100% confidential.

Schedule Your First Meeting with a Divorce Attorney

If you have been served with divorce papers or are thinking about starting the process on your own, don’t let the unknown hold you back. Follow these steps to get ready for your first meeting with a divorce attorney, and then take the first step.

See if TJ Grimaldi is the right divorce attorney to help you through the process. Our initial consultations are free. Schedule your consultation or call 813-226-1023 to see if TJ is the best attorney to help guide you through this phase of your life.

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How to Find and Use Florida Family Law Forms

The Florida State Court System is set up so individuals can access and file Florida family law forms on their own. Individuals going through a family law matter aren’t required to use an attorney. Instead, they can represent themselves and use self-help resources to manage their case.

Let’s look at where you can find Florida family law forms, how you can use them, and if there’s a better alternative to filing on your own. 

What Are Florida Family Law Forms?

Florida family law forms are standard documents you can use while representing yourself in family court in Florida. The Florida civil law forms include representation forms, petitions, supplemental (modification) petitions, answers, financial affidavits, and supporting documents. Florida family law forms can be used in matters related to divorce, alimony and spousal support, child support, property division, and paternity, among other matters. 

When Do You Need Florida Family Law Forms?

You can use Florida family law forms if you want to take legal action or someone has taken legal action against you in family law courts. There are more than a hundred forms that can be used in family law proceedings. You can use the forms if you want or need to:

  • File an appeal or an answer related to family law matters
  • File for divorce
  • File for custody
  • Change a custody or visitation agreement
  • Change a parenting plan 
  • Change a legal name
  • Determine paternity 
  • File for step-parent adoption
  • File for protections against domestic abuse 

This is not a comprehensive list, but it can give you an idea of the actions you can take using Florida family law forms. 

Where Can I Access Florida Family Law Forms?

The Florida State Court System has a self-help resource center on its website that includes a long list of Florida family law forms. You can find them in the Family Law Self-Help Information resource center. 

All forms are free of charge. You can download editable forms directly from the site. 

Individual counties may also have online resources that supply family law forms. But, you do not need to use forms specific to your country. 

Forms in Florida are standard throughout the state. While details of the forms (such as your country name on the first page) may be different, you can use all forms found on the Florida State Court System website for each country. 

How Do I Use Florida Family Law Forms? 

The Family Law Self-Help resource provides instructions to guide you through the process of using and filing forms on your own. 

  1. Start by reviewing the General Information for Self-Represented Litigants which shares vital information about the court system and its processes. 
  2. Review the Florida Rules of Family Law to gain a better understanding of family law processes and procedures.
  3. Determine which forms you need, and find them on the Florida Court site.
  4. Fill out forms. You can download, print, and hand-write your forms, but it is recommended to use the form’s fillable fields. When you use Adobe Acrobat Reader, you can fill out forms by typing in answers. This process ensures that your forms are legible. 
  5. File forms with the Clerk of Court’s office in your county. Each form includes directions on how to file the form and what procedures need to be followed (such as if you need to make copies, have other parties served, etc.).

How Do I Get Help?

The Family Law Self-Help resource offers some assistance, but it cannot provide the full scope of help you might need. 

The resource center can only offer administrative and procedural help. For example, if you can’t find a form, can’t download it, or have a disability which limits your ability to access an online form, the office can provide assistance. But, they cannot help you fill out forms or offer any assistance that can be perceived as legal help. If you want legal assistance, you need to work with a family law attorney. 

A family law attorney can help you with the entire process. When you work with an attorney, you will likely not need to access any Florida Family Law Forms on your own. Your attorney will advise on what forms you need, help you complete the forms, and file them on your behalf. 

Related: What Happens After Divorce Papers Are Served?

Let’s Talk About Your Family Law Case 

If you’re looking for family law forms, you are likely in the middle of or about to start ligation. While these forms will help you navigate the process on your own, it always helps to have a professional on your side.

A family law attorney will make sure you complete the correct forms, at the right time, and in your best interest. They will guide you through the process to ensure that you and your family get the best possible outcome. 

If you need advice on how to go through a family law process, please contact TJ Grimaldi. All of our consultations are 100% free so you can discuss your case for no charge. You will speak directly with our lead counsel, TJ Grimaldi so he can get to know your case and let you know how we can help you through your unique family law situation. Schedule your free consultation or call 813-226-1023 today. 

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What Happens After Divorce Papers Are Served?

When divorce papers are served, there are a lot of unknowns. Whether you are the one serving divorce papers or you are on the receiving end, you will likely have many questions about what is to come. 

You will want to know what you can do to make the process go as smoothly as possible for everyone involved, while ensuring that you get a fair and just outcome. 

To help guide you through the process, here is what you can expect to happen after divorce papers are served in Florida. Keep in mind that processes may vary by state, and we recommend getting information about your specific state from a qualified divorce attorney.

What Happens After You Serve Divorce Papers? 

If you’re serving divorce papers on your spouse, the process won’t come as a surprise. You will expect it. Regardless, you might be anxious about what happens next. 

When your spouse is served with divorce papers:

  • They can choose to hire a divorce attorney or represent themselves.
  • They will have up to 20 days to file an answer. Members of the military may have a longer period of time to respond.
  • Their answer will tell the court which part of the filling they agree or disagree with.
  • They will be asked to fill out additional paperwork and participate in mediation and/or hearings to finalize the divorce.

If your spouse is served with divorce papers and they don’t file an answer within 20 days, they may forfeit their right to present their side. The court may award a default judgment, which is a ruling that only takes your petition into consideration (since there is no information submitted by the other party). This process doesn’t happen automatically. The petitioner (you) must file a Motion for Clerk’s Default to move the case along if your spouse doesn’t file an answer. To keep the process moving along, file a Motion for Clerk’s Default the day after the answer is due if your spouse does not file an answer. 

If your spouse is served with divorce papers and they respond after 20 days, they may still be able to participate in the case. They can file a late answer if the Motion for Clerk’s Default has not been filed. If the Motion for Clerk’s Default has already been filed, they will need to file other motions to show why they filed late and what relief they seek. 

Recommended Reading: How to File for Divorce in Florida 

What Happens After You Are Served with Divorce Papers?

The divorce process might be more disorienting if you are served with papers from your spouse. Whether you are expecting them or not, being served with divorce papers can be stressful. You may feel emotional about the situation, and you only have 20 days to file an answer. The key is to stay calm and act quickly. 

If you are served with divorce papers:

  1. Decide whether to seek counsel from an attorney. We recommend exploring your options with a divorce attorney as soon as possible. As soon as you are served, call for free consultations to see how a divorce lawyer can help you navigate the next steps. (At  TJ Grimaldi, Attorney at Law, all consultations are free. Schedule your free consultation or call 813-226-1023 today.)
  2. Review the petition, and compile your answer. Your answer should respond to all claims made in the divorce papers. Don’t rush through this process. Carefully go through all claims and write up responses that relate to the division of assets and liability, child custody, and spousal support. Make note of any claims that you don’t agree with, and pull any documentation that supports your claims.  
  3. File your answer within 20 days. It should go without saying, but the deadline to file is extremely important. Don’t let this date pass without filing an answer. 
  4. Follow additional directions by the court leading up to final judgment. Once the answer is filed, you will likely receive additional documents to fill out, and you will participate in mediation and/or hearings until the final judgment is entered.

If you are served with divorce papers and don’t answer within 20 days, you may still have an opportunity to make your claims. If the Motion for Clerk’s Default hasn’t been filed, you can still file an answer. But, if the Motion for Clerk’s Default was filed, you may need to file additional motions to get your side of the case heard. 

Talk to an Attorney Before & After Divorce Papers Are Served

When divorce papers are served, the situation quickly becomes real. Whether you are serving the papers or being served with them, you are in a legal situation that can impact the rest of your life.

Make sure you have the information and representation to protect you, your children, and your assets as you go through the process. Work with an experienced attorney who can ensure that the process is as painless as possible for all involved while ending with a fair outcome. 

If you’ve been served with divorce papers or are thinking about serving your spouse with divorce papers, TJ Grimaldi is here to help. Our consultations are 100% free. Schedule your free consultation or call 813-226-1023 to see how we can help make the divorce process less stressful for everyone involved. 

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How to File for Divorce in Florida

Deciding that you want a divorce can be very difficult. The process of going through a divorce shouldn’t be. We’re here to help you understand how to file for divorce in Florida to make the process as smooth as possible. 

If you’re thinking about filing for divorce, use this information to make sure you fully understand the process and know what to expect.

How to File for Divorce in Florida in 6 Steps 

There are many factors that can impact the divorce process. If it is contested, children are involved, or alimony is requested, there may be additional steps. But as a basic framework, these steps outline how to file for divorce in Florida. 

  1. One or both parties file a petition for Dissolution of Marriage. 
  2. If it is a contested divorce, the other party files an answer within 20 days.
  3. Both parties may be required to fill out additional paperwork and affidavits (related to material assets, child custody, alimony, etc.).
  4. Both parties may work together through mediation to come to an agreement.
  5. If no agreement is made, a trial may take place. 
  6. A final judgment is made, and the divorce is finalized. 

While these are the basic steps of most divorces, every divorce is different. Factors related to the marriage can make these steps move faster or slower and add to or shorten the process. 

If you are about to go through the divorce process, it’s a good idea to speak to an attorney who can listen to the specific details of your case and help you understand what you can expect based on your unique situation. 

FAQS for Filing for Divorce in Florida

If you are wondering how to file for divorce in Florida, knowing the answers to these frequently asked questions will help you navigate the process. 

What is a Simplified Divorce?

The fastest and easiest way to get a divorce in Florida is through a Simplified Divorce. A Simplified Divorce, or Simplified Dissolution of Marriage, is an uncontested divorce. Parties meet certain qualifications that enable them to expedite the divorce. To qualify, no children under 18 can be involved, and both parties must agree to terms set before the filling, agreeing to forgo the right to trial and alimony. 

How much does it cost to file for divorce in Florida?

The average filing fee for a dissolution of marriage and annulment in Florida is $408.00. Depending on the details of the divorce, there may be additional fees if the case needs to cover matters related to child custody, visitation, paternity, and support. If parties can’t afford to pay the fee, they can submit an Application for Determination of Civil Indigent Status, or a divorce filing fee waiver. This may be approved by the court to waive the fee. 

What forms do I need to file for divorce in Florida? 

For an uncontested divorce, you only need a Dissolution of Marriage form. This form along with any other forms needed to file for divorce can be found on the Florida Courts website. If the divorce is contested, involves alimony, or has children involved, other forms might be required in addition to the Dissolution of Marriage form. For example, if children are involved, a Parenting Plan or Disestablishment of Paternity form may also be required.  

How long does a divorce in Florida take? 

A Simplified Dissolution of Marriage with no disputes can be completed in about three months. A contested divorce can take longer, and the length will depend on the details of the case. On average, a disputed divorce takes around 12 months. 

Can I file for divorce without an attorney? 

Yes, you can go through the divorce process without legal counsel. The Florida State Courts System’s Self-Help Center offers assistance through self-help programs and court staff. But, it’s important to note that these resources can only help with administrative and procedural assistance. They cannot provide legal advice.

If you want legal advice — information about how to go through the process to get the best outcome — you need an attorney. An experienced divorce attorney can ensure that you go through the process properly and get the outcome you deserve. 

Don’t File for Divorce on Your Own

Going through a divorce isn’t always easy, but when you work with an experienced divorce attorney, it is easier. 

You don’t have the added stress of trying to navigate the legal process. You can find comfort in knowing that someone experienced with the process is guiding you toward the best possible outcome while making the situation as quick and smooth as possible. 

If you need help going through the divorce process, TJ Grimaldi is here to help. See how TJ can guide you through your divorce proceedings. All consultations with TJ are 100% free, so schedule your free consultation or call 813-226-1023 today to see how our team can make your divorce easier on everyone involved. 

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