Legal Question in Family Law in Florida
Divorce
I received a 20 day response letter for a dissolution of marriage. this is the 1st letter asking for response and it says to file where the case was filed by the other party. do i have to do that or can i just go to my local courthouse. i live in seminole county florida, the case was filed in Volusia county florida. also, it asks if i agree, but the whole case was not served, just the divorce agreement. should i just deny the whole thing, or check the box that says i dont have a decision one way or the other? there is a child involved by the way and this is the very first step of the divorce process. he filed against me for it and i have to respond now within 1 week. thanks so much
1 Answer from Attorneys
Re: Divorce
NOTE: This communication is not intended as and should not be interpreted as legal advice. Rather, it is intended solely as a general discussion of legal principles. You should not rely on or take action based on this communication without first presenting ALL relevant details to a competent attorney in your jurisdiction and then receiving the attorney's individualized advice for you. By reading the "Response" to your question or comment, you agree that the opinion expressed is not intended to, nor does it, create any attorney-client relationship, nor does it constitute legal advice to any person reviewing such information, nor will it be considered an attorney-client privileged communication. If you do not agree, then stop right here, and do not read any further.
The answer must be filed in the same court where the petition was filed. If you file it in another county, it will probably never get where it belongs and a default and eventually a final judgment may be entered without the benefit of any response from you.
You must respond to each allegation of the petition that was filed. You might be able to call the court and ask if they can mail or fax you a complete copy. Any allegation which is not responded to is considered to be admitted and can harm you during this process.
A divorce involving children is a very serious matter. I would strongly advise that you retain an attorney to represent you in this matter.
Scott R. Jay, Esq.