Even in situations where you and your spouse are experiencing conflict, frequent disagreements, lack of empathy for one another, etc., being faced with the potential end of your marriage may still come as a shock. At The Marks Law Firm, P.A. – Family Law & Divorce Attorneys, we recognize the significance of the following steps for those who have been served:
1. Processing emotions: Folks who have been served with Divorce papers may be faced with many different emotions and stages of grief. Rather than acting out in anger, it is important to give yourself the time and space to identify what you are feeling. Consider the possible consequences of negative actions.
2. Determining your desired outcome: Do you want to contest the Divorce? Would you attend counseling to save the marriage? Are you prepared to leave the relationship? Knowing what you want when being served will allow you to take the next steps in a timely manner.
3. Researching Family Law Attorneys in your area: Do you have minor children? Are you concerned about your rights as a parent? Perhaps you are interested in reconciliation. Family Law firms cater to a niche of case types and Client goals. Look into a Lawyer and Legal Team who share your priorities.
4. Scheduling an Initial Consultation: Per Florida Law, once a spouse has been served with Divorce papers, he or she has 20 days to file an Answer. In order to meet this deadline, it is essential to contact a Family Law Attorney as soon as possible. Especially if you would like to timely file the necessary papers with the Court and ultimately resolve your case.
5. Retaining Legal Counsel: Unless you choose the Pro Se route (representing yourself without an Attorney) retaining Legal Counsel may be necessary to move forward with the Divorce process. Advantages of hiring an Attorney include: knowledge of the law and the legal process, as well as compassion for you as a Client.
6. Communicating with your spouse: Perhaps the two of you can still have some common goals, like protecting the children, despite your differences. As long as your situation does not pose physical or emotional harm, we often encourage Family Law Clients to connect with their spouse in order to determine what is best for any minor children involved. Collaborative Law may be a good fit if both spouses would like to maintain privacy, can remain solution-oriented, and are intentional about avoiding unnecessary conflict.
Divorce can be scary and intimidating, especially in the beginning stages. You don’t have to face this process alone. Did you know, Attorney Tom Marks has over 38 years of experience serving Family Law Clients in Central Florida? He and all of our Divorce Attorneys are dedicated to excellence and teamwork. Call our office today to learn more about our practice areas and find out if we could be the right fit for your case.