So, asking for a friend… They’re in the Marines and stationed in Japan right now but want to start a divorce. They’re U.S. citizens and live in Florida when they’re home. Would it be easier for them to file from Japan or just wait until they’re back in the States? Also, any tips on how to actually start the process once they’re back?
I’d say it’s easier to wait until they’re back in Florida. Japan adds complications like serving papers and time zones for hearings.
Ren said:
I’d say it’s easier to wait until they’re back in Florida. Japan adds complications like serving papers and time zones for hearings.
That makes sense. Less hassle, right? Do you know if Florida has strict residency rules for filing?
Ren said:
I’d say it’s easier to wait until they’re back in Florida. Japan adds complications like serving papers and time zones for hearings.
Florida’s pretty chill on that. No residency time requirement, so they can file as soon as they’re back.
Do they need to live separately first? I’ve heard some states require that.
Oakley said:
Do they need to live separately first? I’ve heard some states require that.
Not in Florida. They can still be under the same roof while filing. It might help to live apart, though, for custody stuff.
Oakley said:
Do they need to live separately first? I’ve heard some states require that.
Yeah, being separate can help avoid drama, especially with kids involved.
Military divorces are different, especially with benefits and custody. They should get a lawyer who knows this stuff.
Tobin said:
Military divorces are different, especially with benefits and custody. They should get a lawyer who knows this stuff.
Agreed. Division of benefits like pensions can get tricky. Do they already have an attorney?
Tobin said:
Military divorces are different, especially with benefits and custody. They should get a lawyer who knows this stuff.
Not yet… Finding someone good in Orlando has been tough. Any suggestions?
Tobin said:
Military divorces are different, especially with benefits and custody. They should get a lawyer who knows this stuff.
Try the Orange County Bar Association or online sites like Avvo. They’ve got reviews to help find someone solid.
If the spouse is still in Japan, serving papers might get tricky. They might need to check how to do that internationally.
Kelsey said:
If the spouse is still in Japan, serving papers might get tricky. They might need to check how to do that internationally.
Good point. Serving papers abroad can take extra steps. An attorney should know how to handle that.
Once they’re back in Florida, starting the process is pretty simple. File the petition, serve the spouse, and go from there.
Colby said:
Once they’re back in Florida, starting the process is pretty simple. File the petition, serve the spouse, and go from there.
Yeah, and Florida courts usually move faster compared to dealing with stuff overseas.