Florida Divorce: How To Move Forward If Your Spouse Tries To Stall

When ending a marriage and filing a divorce petition in Fort Lauderdale, one of the most frustrating scenarios is when your spouse refuses to sign. Maybe they’re trying to maintain control or refuse to face the reality of the situation. Whatever the reason, you may wonder: Can I even get divorced if they won’t cooperate?

The good news is that your spouse cannot prevent a divorce in Florida by refusing to sign. Our experienced Fort Lauderdale divorce attorney represents clients throughout Broward County and can help you push forward, even when the other side is determined to stall.

How A Fort Lauderdale Divorce Works When One Spouse Refuses to Sign

Florida is a no-fault divorce state, which means you don’t need your spouse’s permission to end the marriage. Under Section 61.052 of the Florida Statutes, the only requirement for getting a divorce is that the marriage is “irretrievably broken.” That allows you to move forward, even if your spouse is dragging their feet. Here’s how the process usually unfolds when one spouse refuses to sign:

• Filing your divorce petition: You can file for divorce without your spouse’s consent. Once served, they have 20 days to respond.
• No response: If they ignore the paperwork, the court may enter a default judgment and move forward without their participation.
• Contested divorce: If they respond but refuse to cooperate, the case becomes contested, and a judge will decide on property division, custody, and support.
• Temporary orders: The court can still issue temporary orders for bills, child custody, and support, even while the divorce is pending.

What to Do If Your Spouse Is Trying to Stall Broward County Divorce Proceedings

Stalling tactics are not uncommon in Broward County Family Court proceedings. When a spouse drags their feet responding to a divorce petition or otherwise fails to cooperate, it’s usually about control or leverage.

Knowing your options takes away that power. Take these steps if you’re facing resistance:

• Keep records of missed deadlines, ignored requests, or failure to respond.
• If your spouse doesn’t file a response, your attorney can ask the court to move forward without them.
• Judges don’t look kindly on stalling tactics. Requesting a hearing can force progress.
• Don’t let bills or custody issues go unresolved. Ask for temporary orders of relief.
• Resist the urge to compromise on major issues just because your spouse is trying to wear you down.

For Help Moving Forward, Contact Our Experienced Fort Lauderdale Divorce Attorney Today

Florida law prevents one party from holding the other hostage in divorce. At The Law Office of Sandra Bonfiglio, we’ve helped clients throughout Broward County move forward even when their spouses tried to delay or control the process. We’ll fight for your rights, push back against stalling tactics, and help you reach a resolution that protects your future.

To get the trusted, local legal representation you need in this situation, call or contact our office online. Schedule a consultation today to speak with our experienced Fort Lauderdale divorce attorney.

Sources:

leg.state.fl.us/STATUTES/index.cfm?App_mode=Display_Statute&URL=0000-0099/0061/Sections/0061.052.html

browardclerk.org/Divisions/Family