5 Barriers to an Uncontested Divorce in Jacksonville

An uncontested divorce helps Florida residents end their marriages in a cost-effective manner. A contested case, in which a couple disagrees over one or more issues, can last for several years, costing tens of thousands of dollars. A contested divorce is usually less stressful and lighter on your bank account.

However, many couples cannot get on the same page so that they can file an uncontested divorce. Below, we look at five barriers many couples face and explain how Empowerment Legal, PLLC, can help.

Anger

One of the primary barriers to working with your spouse to find common ground is anger. Often, a spouse is angry because they did not want to get divorced. They might feel blindsided when they receive divorce papers. However, Florida’s no-fault laws make it impossible for a spouse to prevent a divorce. So long as one spouse feels the marriage is broken, they can go ahead and file.

We work with our clients to help them see that they are only hurting themselves by dragging out a divorce. Instead, the sensible option is to work in good faith with your spouse to negotiate a divorce settlement. Let our office help. We can take the lead and negotiate with your spouse’s lawyer.

Lack of Information about Finances

A couple cannot effectively divide marital assets if they really don’t know what they own. Generally, any asset you obtained while married is considered “marital.” You’ll need to divide all marital assets unless you have a prenuptial agreement. Many couples have no idea what they own when they decide to divorce. For example, you might have several bank accounts if you moved around or money in retirement accounts for jobs you left years ago.

Our law firm comprehensively uncovers all financial assets. We ask detailed questions that can help jog your memory.

Lack of Legal Representation

Even uncontested divorces need a lawyer’s help. For example, we can:

• Identify which assets are marital and which are the separate property each spouse can take with them after divorce.
• Value assets fairly, such as business assets or extremely volatile assets like crypto.
• Help draft a detailed parenting plan so that parents can work effectively together after divorce.
• Identify any questions or concerns a judge will have.

Reach out to our firm to discuss your divorce. Our firm knows the “ins and outs” of Florida law. We have helped many clients negotiate a divorce and then seek judicial approval.

Ineffective Communication

Sometimes spouses squabble because of miscommunication. When one spouse files for divorce, the other often leaves the home. They try to communicate through their children or friends, or else they use text messages. Communication barriers add stress to any divorce. Ideally, you will hire a lawyer who can communicate with your spouse’s lawyer.

Domestic Violence

There is no question that domestic violence complicates divorce. The presence of intimate partner violence makes negotiation impossible. Let our office know if you are facing immediate violence.

Speak with a Divorce Lawyer Today

Empowerment Legal, PLLC, has helped many clients end their marriages. Our Jacksonville divorce lawyer, Sidonie Parr, is eager to help. You can schedule a private consultation by contacting us today.