Legal Question in Family Law in Florida

divorce

my husband recently served me with divorce papers, state of florida, i have 20 days to answer to the court--what are my options? Do i have to pay a retainer to an attorney--can i just ask for more time to try and resolve our issues or am i forced to go along with it? Please help me i dont know how to proceed and i am devistated the papers say i must respond to this within 20 days or i defalt--does that mean i lose everything i own?


Asked on 2/09/09, 12:05 pm

4 Answers from Attorneys

David Slater David P. Slater, Esq.

Re: divorce

Retain counsel or file your own papaers. Do not default.

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Answered on 2/09/09, 3:59 pm
Brent Rose The Orsini & Rose Law Firm

Re: divorce

So long as you do it before the 20 days expires, you're allowed to file a motion for an extension of time to file your answer. Judges are usually pretty good about giving people a extra 20 days. You're also allowed to file a motion to abate proceedings, stating that you're willing to go to counseling or take from other measures to save your marriage. Judges will usually freeze your divorce for 90 days or so while you try to work things out with your spouse. However, your motion to abate will be denied if your husband objects and wants to go forward with a divorce.

In the meantime, you should consult with a divorce attorney.

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Answered on 2/10/09, 3:02 pm
Brent Rose The Orsini & Rose Law Firm

Re: divorce

So long as you do it before the 20 days expires, you're allowed to file a motion for an extension of time to file your answer. Judges are usually pretty good about giving people a extra 20 days. You're also allowed to file a motion to abate proceedings, stating that you're willing to go to counseling or take from other measures to save your marriage. Judges will usually freeze your divorce for 90 days or so while you try to work things out with your spouse. However, your motion to abate will be denied if your husband objects and wants to go forward with a divorce.

In the meantime, you should consult with a divorce attorney.

Read more
Answered on 2/10/09, 3:02 pm
Brent Rose The Orsini & Rose Law Firm

Re: divorce

So long as you do it before the 20 days expires, you're allowed to file a motion for an extension of time to file your answer. Judges are usually pretty good about giving people an extra 20 days. You're also allowed to file a motion to abate proceedings, stating that you're willing to go to counseling or take from other measures to save your marriage. Judges will usually freeze your divorce for 90 days or so while you try to work things out with your spouse. However, your motion to abate will be denied if your husband objects and wants to go forward with a divorce.

In the meantime, you should consult with a divorce attorney.

Read more
Answered on 2/10/09, 3:02 pm


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