Legal Lotus

Read this first. It tells you who this course is for, how to use it, what it is and isn’t, and how to make sure you’re in the right place before you spend a dollar of your time on the wrong path.

A few plain-language ideas that make the rest of the course click. Short section, mostly good news about everything your simple case lets you skip.

What to gather before you start, including your financial affidavit, so you’re not hunting for information halfway through.

Meet the forms you’ll file and see how your county and circuit fit in, then use the builder to fill them all in at once.

The document that opens your case and tells the court what you’re asking for. What it is and how to complete it.

A short form telling the court whether you have other cases involving your family. When it applies and how to fill it out.

Basic case information the clerk needs to open your file. What goes on it and why.

How to keep sensitive details, like Social Security numbers, out of the public court record when you file.

The form your spouse signs to agree and keep things moving without being formally served. What it does and how it gets signed.

The routing sheet that goes on top of your filing. What it is, and the part you can usually mark N/A.

How to set your final hearing and let the court and your spouse know when it is.

How to file through Florida’s E-Filing Portal, what it costs, the fee-waiver option if money is tight, and how your spouse receives notice.

What actually happens at the final hearing, how to prepare, and the kinds of questions the judge will ask.

When and how you might appear by Zoom or phone instead of in person. This one depends on your county.

The order that ends your marriage. What to bring so the judge can sign it the day of your hearing.

Your final judgment, restoring a former name, ordering certified copies, and updating your records once everything is official.