Absolute Versus Limited Divorce in Florida

When you determine that you want a divorce, as a Floridian you can choose from one of two options. If you choose an absolute divorce, then the court will decree that your marriage is legally over and that you are permitted to remarry. This type of divorce also terminates any property claims, and is considered absolutely permanent. If you opt for a limited divorce instead, then you are asking for a divorce that isn't permanent and you will not be able to remarry. Also, you may be able to settle property claims, but they will not be terminated. Essentially, a limited divorce only legalizes separation and allows for support, such as temporary alimony.

Contrary to popular belief, you don't need to obtain a limited divorce before you are allowed to receive an absolute one. People often think that a limited divorce is step one and an absolute divorce is step two, but this is not the case. If you choose to apply for both divorces in this order, it may be a good way to find out whether or not you are making the right decision. Some people will obtain a court-granted limited divorce and then realize that they don't want to separate from their husband or wife at all. Because the courts did not grant a permanent dissolution of your marriage, you can go back to your spouse and still be held under all of the legal implications of a marriage.

If neither of these options are what you are looking for, there is another way to end your matrimony. An annulment can make it seem as though your marriage never existed. The courts will declare that you and your spouse were never married. Often an annulment is practiced when a couple was married for a very short amount of time, especially when the situation was due to some sort of arrangement based on another person's interests. By knowinng about these three choices, you will be better equipped to end your marriage in the way that works best for you.