Physical Address
304 North Cardinal St.
Dorchester Center, MA 02124
Understanding How to Get a Divorce in Orange County
Filing for divorce in Orange County, FL, might seem daunting, but it doesn’t have to be. Imagine stepping into a new chapter of your life with confidence.
That starts here, with understanding the process. Orange County has its specificities, and navigating them can be smoother than you think. Let’s dive into what makes this process unique in Orange County.
You’ll learn the key steps, from paperwork to court proceedings. We’re not just talking about filling forms; it’s about moving forward with clarity. Keep reading to unravel this journey, step by step. Let’s make this transition as smooth as possible for you.
To get more info on filing for divorce in Florida, find a detailed overview in our article, How to File for Divorce in Florida.
Key Takeaways:
- Understanding the divorce process in Orange County, FL is crucial before initiating the filing.
- Ensure you meet the residency requirements for filing a divorce case in Orange County, FL.
- Familiarize yourself with the grounds for divorce acceptable in Orange County, FL.
- Follow the necessary steps to file for divorce in Orange County, FL accurately and efficiently.
- Be aware of the filing fees associated with divorce in Orange County, FL.
Table of Contents
Who is Eligible to File for Orange County FL?
In order to file for divorce in Orange County, FL, either you or your spouse must reside in the county. You can also file for divorce in Orange County if you and your spouse agree to have the local circuit court review your case, even if neither of you currently reside or have ever resided in the county. However, one of you must have lived in Florida for at least 6 months prior to filing for divorce. Proof of residency may be required, such as a Florida ID or driver’s license.
Residency Requirement for Divorce in Orange County FL
To be eligible to file for divorce in Orange County, FL, at least one spouse must have lived in Florida for a minimum of 6 months prior to filing. Residency can be proven through a Florida ID or driver’s license. However, you can still file for divorce in Orange County if you and your spouse agree to have the local circuit court review your case, regardless of whether either of you currently reside or have ever resided in the county.
| Eligibility Criteria | Residency Requirement |
|---|---|
| Either you or your spouse must reside in Orange County. | At least one spouse must have lived in Florida for 6 months prior to filing. |
| You can file in Orange County if both parties agree, even if neither reside or have ever resided in the county. | Proof of residency may be required, such as a Florida ID or driver’s license. |
Grounds for Divorce
In Orange County, FL, you can file for divorce based on the grounds of irreconcilable differences. This means that your marriage is beyond repair, and there is no chance of reconciliation. Fault or misconduct is not required to obtain a divorce in Florida.
Another ground for divorce in Orange County, FL is if one spouse has been mentally incapacitated for at least three years.
How to File for Divorce in Orange County FL
Steps to File for Divorce in Orange County FL
The process of filing for divorce in Orange County, FL involves several steps. To ensure a smooth divorce process, follow these steps:
- Complete the required paperwork: Gather all necessary documents specific to your family situation, such as the Petition for Dissolution of Marriage, Financial Affidavits, and Marital Settlement Agreement.
- Sign and notarize the documents: Make sure to carefully review the documents and sign them in the presence of a notary public.
- File the documents: Take the completed and notarized documents to the clerk of the court in Orange County and file them. Pay the required filing fee at this time.
- Serve the documents to your spouse: Arrange for the documents to be legally served to your spouse, following the proper guidelines and procedures.
- Attend a parenting course (if applicable): If you have children, you may be required to attend a court-approved parenting course. This course provides valuable information on co-parenting and is designed to prioritize the best interests of the children involved.
- Exchange Financial Affidavits: Both you and your spouse must exchange Financial Affidavits, which disclose your financial assets, debts, and income.
- Schedule a hearing: Contact the court to schedule a hearing where your case will be reviewed by a judge. The Orange County Courthouse may also require additional hearings throughout the divorce process.
- Submit necessary documents for the final judgment: Prepare and submit all required documents for the final judgment, including the proposed Final Judgment of Dissolution of Marriage.
By following these steps, you can navigate the divorce process in Orange County, FL with confidence and ease.
How Much Does it Cost to File for Divorce in Orange County, FL?
When filing for divorce in Orange County, FL, there are certain fees that you need to pay. The filing fee for divorce in Orange County. There may also be additional minor payments required, such as copying fees. It is recommended to contact the clerk’s office before visiting the court to inquire about the exact fees and payment options.
| Filing Description | Fee |
|---|---|
| Petition to establish paternal responsibility and visitation, paternity | $300.00 |
| Name changes | $412.50 |
| Adoption and termination of parental rights (TPR) | $400.00 |
| Counter petition for name change, adoption and termination of parental rights | $395.00 |
| Counter petition for the same case type | $295.00 |
| Counter petition for a dissolution in a non-dissolution case | $392.50 |
| Divorce – includes the final judgment recording fee (does not include summons) | $408.00 |
| Petition for Custody by Extended Family | $400.00 |
| Other Filing Fees | |
| Certification | $2.00 |
| Sign/seal subpoena | $2.00 |
| Petition for modifications of final judgment | $50.00 |
| Case re-open fee | $50.00 |
| Issuance of summons on new and existing cases | $10.00 |
Filing for divorce in Orange County, FL involves paying a filing fee, which is an essential part of initiating the legal process. The filing fee covers the administrative costs associated with handling your divorce case. The current filing fee in Orange County. It is important to note that this fee is subject to change, so it is advisable to consult with the clerk’s office or check the official court website for the most up-to-date information.
In addition to the filing fee, there may be additional minor payments required, such as copying fees for documents. These fees vary depending on the specific services requested. Before visiting the court to file for divorce, it is recommended to contact the clerk’s office to inquire about the exact fees and payment options. This will ensure that you have the necessary funds and are prepared to cover all the associated costs.
Fee Waiver
If you are unable to afford the filing fees for divorce in Orange County, FL, you may be eligible for a fee waiver. You can request a waiver by filling out an Application form and filing it along with the other documents. However, the court may decline the fee waiver if you do not meet the requirements. It is advisable to consult with the clerk’s office or seek legal advice to understand the eligibility criteria for a fee waiver.
Where to File for Divorce in Orange County, FL
The court is located at:
425 N Orange Ave, Orlando, FL 32801, United States
- Phone: +14078362000
How to File Without an Attorney
If you prefer to file for divorce without hiring an attorney in Orange County, FL, you have the option to represent yourself. This is known as self-representation or filing pro se. Many individuals choose this path to save on legal costs and maintain control over their case. However, it is important to note that the divorce process can be complex, especially in contested cases where there are disagreements over child custody, alimony, or division of assets.
To successfully navigate through the divorce process in Orange County without an attorney, it is recommended that you educate yourself about the local laws and procedures. Familiarize yourself with the Florida Family Law rules and the specific requirements of the Orange County Circuit Court. You can find valuable resources online, such as self-help guides and divorce forms provided by the court or reputable legal websites.
Additionally, seeking legal advice or assistance on specific matters can be crucial. While you may choose to handle the majority of the paperwork and procedural aspects on your own, consulting with an attorney at key points can help ensure you are making informed decisions and protecting your rights. An attorney can provide guidance on complex issues, such as drafting a fair settlement agreement or presenting a strong case in court if your divorce becomes contested.
Remember, filing for divorce without an attorney may be suitable for simple, uncontested cases where both parties are in agreement on major issues. However, if your circumstances are more complex or you anticipate challenges during the process, it is wise to consult with a qualified family law attorney to represent your best interests.
To see how this process of filing for divorce in Orange County compares to that in other Florida counties, check out our articles about how to file for divorce in Okaloosa County and filing for divorce in Osceola County.
