Filing for Divorce is generally one of the biggest decisions of a person’s life. Although most people are very sure they have made the right decision to legally end their marriage, others sometimes have second thoughts. Sometimes a couple may decide to reconcile even after the divorce papers have been filed. Fortunately, the family court system in Florida has made it fairly easy for divorcing couples to put these proceedings on pause or even dismiss the divorce case when one or both parties have decided that they are not ready to finalize the legal end of their marriage. In fact, it is usually as easy as filing a one-page “Motion to Abate” or a “Notice of Voluntary Dismissal”.
In a case where the couple wants to try and work on their marriage before deciding to move forward with the divorce, they would be able to put the proceedings on hold by filing a Motion to Abate. Depending on the county in where the divorce was filed, this temporary “hold” may last anywhere from 60 to 90 days—giving the couple enough time to try marriage counseling and/or give additional time to make a final decision about the future of their marriage. If, after this period of time, the couple decides to proceed with their divorce, they would simply need to file a Motion to Continue the Proceedings.
If they decide to stay together, they would file a Motion to Voluntarily Dismiss the Dissolution Proceedings. This would effectively close the case, as if the divorce was never filed in the first place. Should the couple once again decide to pursue a divorce they would need to re-file and start anew.. This means that they would need to pay a new filing fee—which is typically around $409. For this reason, most Fort Lauderdale divorce attorneys would recommend that you make decisions in these matters wisely. Divorce is inherently a difficult decision, but you avoid a good amount of aggravation, time and money by not pursuing it until you are rock solid in your decision before filing a case.
If you need to file for Divorce, help is available. You can turn to Darren K. Edwards, P.A. for guidance. Rest-assured, I will provide you with the sound, honest advice you should expect from a Fort Lauderdale divorce lawyer. Having represented clients in countless family law cases in Florida, Mr. Edwards understands just how difficult this experience can be. Whether you have yet to file for divorce or you are interested in putting an active divorce on hold, we are here to help. Call today at (954) 495-4690 to learn more.
