What Should Families Know Before Beginning the Divorce Process?
Apr 7, 2026
Considering divorce? Knowing what to expect before you start can save you a lot of time and stress, and talking to a Fort Myers, FL, divorce lawyer early will help you get all the facts straight and plan ahead so the road is as smooth as possible.
First, you need to confirm you meet the state’s residency rules. At least one spouse must have lived in Florida for six months in order for you to file a divorce petition, but the only grounds you need to state is that the marriage is “irretrievably broken.” Florida has a no-fault approach, so you do not have to prove there’s been misconduct unless you need to for other reasons. Your case will be filed in the circuit court in the county where you and your spouse last lived together, or it can be filed in the county where either of you now lives if you’re separated.
Even if you’re not yet eligible to file or ready to file, start collecting documents now so you understand exactly what you own and owe together. Make copies of the last three years of joint and individual tax returns, all your recent pay stubs, all bank and credit card statements, your retirement account summaries, and any mortgage statements, car titles, and business records.
Posted in Family Law · By HD Law Partners