What can I do if my spouse files for divorce but I do not want the divorce? by Lynette Silon-Laguna, ESQ published on 2015-11-04T18:39:02Z http://FamilyMaritalLaw.com Often times we are asked the question, "What can I do if my spouse files for divorce but I do not want the divorce?" Florida is a no fault divorce state. All one has to do is to file a Petition for Dissolution of Marriage and allege that the marriage is irretreivably broken. This does not have to be proven. So you cannot prevent the divorce if your spouse is determined to get one. However, you might be able to convince your spouse not to seek the divorce and instead attend marital counseling or otherwise reconcile. This is voluntary as the court will not order that you go through any counseling to save the marriage. What you can do is to make sure that your interests are protected. Do not ignore the divorce process thinking it will go away. You will have only 20 days to respond to the Petition once it has been personally served upon you. It is important to talk with a knowledgeable Tampa attorney who specializes in divorce and family law, and make sure that your property and liability issues are properly addressed, as well as any support issues. If you have children with your spouse, make sure that you retain appropriate timesharing and child support is properly calculated. If you do not respond to the Petition as directed in it, a default will be entered and the process will proceed without you. For more information or to schedule a complimentary consultation contact us at: Tampa Bay Divorce Attorney All Family Law Group 813-616-3557 511 West Bay Street Suite 450 Tampa, Florida 33606 Genre divorce