What Happens if You Don’t Respond to Divorce Papers?

If you’ve received divorce papers, you’re probably feeling a wide range of emotions, which is completely understandable. While you should certainly give yourself time to process your feelings, it’s of utmost importance that you timely respond to the divorce papers. If you don’t respond to these papers, the court may proceed without your participation, enter a default judgment against you, and grant your spouse the relief that he or she has requested. By failing to promptly respond to divorce papers, you’re essentially giving up your right to challenge your spouse on certain issues.

The Deadline to Respond in Florida

In Florida, spouses have only 20 days to file an Answer and Counter-Petition after being served with a Petition for Dissolution of Marriage. Because this deadline is so tight, and because drafting response papers can be an exceedingly complicated endeavor, it’s important to rely on a qualified divorce attorney. An experienced attorney will be able to monitor any applicable deadlines to ensure that your rights remain protected.

Offering Representation for Clients in the Greater Tampa Bay Area

If you need a divorce attorney in Pasco, Pinellas, Hillsborough, or Hernando Counties, you can turn to the knowledgeable team at the Law Offices of Audrey A. Jefferis, P.A. We have offices in New Port Richey and Palm Harbor, and we’re open between 8:30 a.m. and 5 p.m. on weekdays. Contact us today to arrange a consultation at a time that fits into your schedule.