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For individuals involved in family law cases in Florida, understanding the Notice Florida form, specifically the Family Law Financial Affidavit (Long Form), is essential. This form is necessary when your individual gross income amounts to $50,000 or more annually. There are certain exceptions where the form may not be required, such as in cases of simplified dissolution or when there are no minor children involved. It’s important to carefully complete this affidavit, as it details both income and expenses, and must be typed or printed clearly in black ink. Once finalized, the form requires signatures and needs to be filed with the clerk of the circuit court in the relevant county. Additionally, a copy of the completed affidavit must be served to the other party involved in the case within a specified timeframe. E-filing has become a modern requirement in many Florida courts, promoting efficiency and accessibility. Self-represented litigants can file electronically but must follow specific guidelines to ensure compliance. Understanding the thorough procedures regarding serving documents, especially via electronic means, is crucial. It’s also necessary to address confidentiality concerns for specific individuals, which can greatly influence how the form is filled out. As such, navigating the details of this form can be complex, yet it plays a vital role in family law proceedings in Florida.

Notice Florida Example

INSTRUCTIONS FOR FLORIDA FAMILY LAW RULES OF PROCEDURE

FORM 12.902(c)

FAMILY LAW FINANCIAL AFFIDAVIT (LONG FORM)

(10/21)

When should this form be used?

This form should be used when you are involved in a family law case which requires a financial affidavit and your individual gross income is $50,000 OR MORE per year unless:

(1)You are filing a simplified dissolution of marriage under rule 12.105 and both parties have waived the filing of financial affidavits;

(2)you have no minor children, no support issues, and have filed a written settlement agreement disposing of all financial issues; or

(3)the court lacks jurisdiction to determine any financial issues.

This form should be typed or printed in black ink. After completing this form, you should sign the form. You should then file this document with the clerk of the circuit court in the county where the petition was filed and keep a copy for your records.

What should I do next?

A copy of this form must be served on the other party in your case within 45 days of being served with the petition, if it is not served on him or her with your initial papers. Service must be in accordance with Florida Rule of General Practice and Judicial Administration 2.516.

A copy of this form must be filed with the court and served on the other party or his or her attorney. The copy you are serving to the other party must be either mailed, e-mailed, or hand-delivered to the opposing party or his or her attorney on the same day indicated on the certificate of service. If it is mailed, it must be postmarked on the date indicated in the certificate of service.

Where can I look for more information?

Before proceeding, you should read “General Information for Self-Represented Litigants” found at the beginning of these forms. The words that are in “bold underline” in these instructions are defined there. For further information, see Florida Family Law Rule of Procedure 12.285.

IMPORTANT INFORMATION REGARDING E-FILING

The Florida Rules of General Practice and Judicial Administration now require that all petitions, pleadings, and documents be filed electronically except in certain circumstances. Self-represented litigants may file petitions or other pleadings or documents electronically; however, they are not required to do so. If you choose to file your pleadings or other documents electronically, you must do so in accordance with Florida Rule of General Practice and Judicial Administration 2.525, and you must follow the procedures of the judicial circuit in which you file. The rules and procedures should be carefully read and followed.

Instructions for Florida Family Law Rules of Procedure Form 12.902(c), Family Law Financial Affidavit (Long Form) (10/21)

IMPORTANT INFORMATION REGARDING E-SERVICE ELECTION

After the initial service of process of the petition or supplemental petition by the Sheriff or certified process server, the Florida Rules of General Practice and Judicial Administration now require that all documents required or permitted to be served on the other party must be served by electronic mail (e- mail) except in certain circumstances. You must strictly comply with the format requirements set forth in the Florida Rules of General Practice and Judicial Administration. If you elect to participate in electronic service, which means serving or receiving pleadings by electronic mail (e-mail), or through the Florida Courts E-Filing Portal, you must review Florida Rule of General Practice and Judicial Administration 2.516. You may find this rule at www.flcourts.org through the link to the Rules of General Practice and Judicial Administration provided under either Family Law Forms: Getting Started, or Rules of Court in the A-Z Topical Index.

SELF-REPRESENTED LITIGANTS MAY SERVE DOCUMENTS BY E-MAIL; HOWEVER, THEY ARE NOT REQUIRED TO DO SO. If a self-represented litigant elects to serve and receive documents by email, the procedures must always be followed once the initial election is made.

To serve and receive documents by e-mail, you must designate your e-mail addresses by using the Designation of Current Mailing and E-mail Address, Florida Supreme Court Approved Family Law Form 12.915, and you must provide your e-mail address on each form on which your signature appears. Please CAREFULLY read the rules and instructions for: Certificate of Service (General), Florida Supreme Court Approved Family Law Form 12.914; Designation of Current Mailing and E-mail Address, Florida Supreme Court Approved Family Law Form 12.915; and Florida Rule of General Practice and Judicial Administration 2.516.

Special notes . . .

If you want to keep your address confidential because you have been found by a judge to be the victim of sexual battery, aggravated child abuse, aggravated stalking, harassment, aggravated battery, or domestic violence do not enter the address, telephone, and fax information at the bottom of this form. Instead, file Request for Confidential Filing of Address, Florida Supreme Court Approved Family Law Form 12.980(h).

The affidavit must be completed using monthly income and expense amounts. If you are paid or your bills are due on a schedule which is not monthly, you must convert those amounts. Hints are provided below for making these conversions.

Instructions for Florida Family Law Rules of Procedure Form 12.902(c), Family Law Financial Affidavit (Long Form) (10/21)

Hourly - If you are paid by the hour, you may convert your income to monthly as follows:

Hourly amount

x

Hours worked per week

=

Weekly amount

Weekly amount

x

52 Weeks per year

=

Yearly amount

Yearly amount

÷

12 Months per year

=

Monthly Amount

Daily - If you are paid by the day, you may convert your income to monthly as follows:

Daily amount

x

Days worked per week

=

Weekly amount

Weekly amount

x

52 Weeks per year

=

Yearly amount

Yearly amount

÷

12 Months per year

=

Monthly Amount

Weekly - If you are paid by the week, you may convert your income to monthly as follows:

Weekly amount

x

52 Weeks per year

=

Yearly amount

Yearly amount

÷

12 Months per year

=

Monthly Amount

Bi-weekly - If you are paid every two weeks, you may convert your income to monthly as follows:

Bi-weekly amount

x

26

=

Yearly amount

Yearly amount

÷

12 Months per year

=

Monthly Amount

Semi-monthly - If you are paid twice per month, you may convert your income to monthly as

follows:

 

 

 

Semi-monthly amount x

2

=

Monthly Amount

Expenses may be converted in the same manner.

Remember, a person who is NOT an attorney is called a nonlawyer. If a nonlawyer helps you fill out these forms, that person must give you a copy of a Disclosure from Nonlawyer, Florida Family Law Rules of Procedure Form 12.900(a), before he or she helps you. A nonlawyer helping you fill out these forms also must put his or her name, address, and telephone number on the bottom of the last page of every form he or she helps you complete.

Instructions for Florida Family Law Rules of Procedure Form 12.902(c), Family Law Financial Affidavit (Long Form) (10/21)

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE

JUDICIAL CIRCUIT,

IN AND FOR

COUNTY, FLORIDA

Case No.:

Division:

,

Petitioner,

and

,

Respondent.

FAMILY LAW FINANCIAL AFFIDAVIT (LONG FORM)

($50,000 or more Individual Gross Annual Income)

I, {full legal name}

, being sworn, certify

that the following information is true:

 

SECTION I. INCOME

1.My age is:

2.My occupation is:

3.I am currently

[Check all that apply]

a.Unemployed

Describe your efforts to find employment, how soon you expect to be employed, and the pay you expect to receive:

b.Employed by:

Address:

 

 

City, State, Zip code:

Telephone Number:

Pay rate: $

( ) every week (

) every other week ( ) twice a month

( ) monthly (

) other:

 

If you are expecting to become unemployed or change jobs soon, describe the change you expect and why and how it will affect your income:

.

_______Check here if you currently have more than one job. List the information above for the

second job(s) on a separate sheet and attach it to this affidavit.

Florida Family Law Rules of Procedure Form 12.902(c), Family Law Financial Affidavit (Long Form) (10/21)

c._ Retired. Date of retirement: Employer from whom retired: Address:

City, State, Zip code:

 

Telephone Number:

LAST YEAR’S GROSS INCOME:

Your Income

Other Party’s Income (if known)

YEAR _____

$ _______

$ _______

PRESENT MONTHLY GROSS INCOME:

All amounts must be MONTHLY. See the instructions with this form to figure out money amounts for anything that is NOT paid monthly. Attach more paper, if needed. Items included under “other” should be listed separately with separate dollar amounts.

1.$______ Monthly gross salary or wages

2._______ Monthly bonuses, commissions, allowances, overtime, tips, and similar payments

3._______ Monthly business income from sources such as self-employment, partnerships, close corporations, and/or independent contracts (Gross receipts minus ordinary and necessary expenses required to produce income.)(Attach sheet itemizing such income and expenses.)

4._______ Monthly disability benefits/SSI

5._______ Monthly Workers’ Compensation

6._______ Monthly Unemployment Compensation

7._______ Monthly pension, retirement, or annuity payments

8._______ Monthly Social Security benefits

9._______ Monthly alimony actually received (Add 9a and 9b)

9a. From this case: $________

9b. From other case(s): $________

10._______ Monthly interest and dividends

11._______ Monthly rental income (gross receipts minus ordinary and necessary expenses required to produce income) (Attach sheet itemizing such income and expense items.)

12._______ Monthly income from royalties, trusts, or estates

13._______ Monthly reimbursed expenses and in-kind payments to the extent that they reduce personal living expenses (Attach sheet itemizing each item and amount.)

14._______ Monthly gains derived from dealing in property (not including nonrecurring gains)

_______ Any other income of a recurring nature (identify source):

15._______________________________________________________________________________

16._______________________________________________________________________________

17.$_________ TOTAL PRESENT MONTHLY GROSS INCOME (Add lines 1 through 16.)

PRESENT MONTHLY DEDUCTIONS:

All amounts must be MONTHLY. See the instructions with this form to figure out money amounts for anything that is NOT paid monthly.

18.$_______ Monthly federal, state, and local income tax (corrected for filing status and allowable dependents and income tax liabilities)

a.Filing Status

b.Number of dependents claimed

19. _______ Monthly FICA or self-employment taxes

Florida Family Law Rules of Procedure Form 12.902(c), Family Law Financial Affidavit (Long Form) (10/21)

20._______ Monthly Medicare payments

21._______ Monthly mandatory union dues

22._______ Monthly mandatory retirement payments

23._______ Monthly health insurance payments (including dental insurance), excluding portion paid for any minor children of this relationship

24._______ Monthly court-ordered child support actually paid for children from another relationship

25._______ Monthly court-ordered alimony actually paid (Add 25a and 25b)

25a. from this case: $ _________

25b. from other case(s): $ _________

26.$______ TOTAL DEDUCTIONS ALLOWABLE UNDER SECTION 61.30, FLORIDA STATUTES (Add lines 18 through 25.)

27.$______ PRESENT NET MONTHLY INCOME

(Subtract line 26 from line 17.)

SECTION II. AVERAGE MONTHLY EXPENSES

Proposed/Estimated Expenses. If this is a dissolution of marriage case and your expenses as listed below do not reflect what you actually pay currently, you should write “estimate” next to each amount that is estimated.

HOUSEHOLD:

1.$______ Monthly mortgage or rent payments

2._______ Monthly property taxes (if not included in mortgage)

3._______ Monthly insurance on residence (if not included in mortgage)

4._______ Monthly condominium maintenance fees and homeowner’s association fees

5._______ Monthly electricity

6._______ Monthly water, garbage, and sewer

7._______ Monthly telephone

8._______ Monthly fuel oil or natural gas

9._______ Monthly repairs and maintenance

10._______ Monthly lawn care

11._______ Monthly pool maintenance

12._______ Monthly pest control

13._______ Monthly misc. household

14._______ Monthly food and home supplies

15._______ Monthly meals outside home

16._______ Monthly cable t.v.

17._______ Monthly alarm service contract

18._______ Monthly service contracts on appliances

19._______ Monthly maid service

Other:

20.__________________________________________________________________________________

21.__________________________________________________________________________________

22.__________________________________________________________________________________

23.__________________________________________________________________________________

24.__________________________________________________________________________________

25.$__________ SUBTOTAL (Add lines 1 through 24.)

Florida Family Law Rules of Procedure Form 12.902(c), Family Law Financial Affidavit (Long Form) (10/21)

AUTOMOBILE:

26.$______ Monthly gasoline and oil

27._______ Monthly repairs

28._______ Monthly auto tags and emission testing

29._______ Monthly insurance

30._______ Monthly payments (lease or financing)

31._______ Monthly rental/replacements

32._______ Monthly alternative transportation (bus, rail, car pool, etc.)

33._______ Monthly tolls and parking

34._______ Other: _________________________________________________

35.$_______ SUBTOTAL (Add lines 26 through 34.)

MONTHLY EXPENSES FOR CHILDREN COMMON TO BOTH PARTIES:

36.$______ Monthly nursery, babysitting, or day care

37._______ Monthly school tuition

38._______ Monthly school supplies, books, and fees

39._______ Monthly after school activities

40._______ Monthly lunch money

41._______ Monthly private lessons or tutoring

42._______ Monthly allowances

43._______ Monthly clothing and uniforms

44._______ Monthly entertainment (movies, parties, etc.)

45._______ Monthly health insurance

46._______ Monthly medical, dental, prescriptions (nonreimbursed only)

47._______ Monthly psychiatric/psychological/counselor

48._______ Monthly orthodontic

49._______ Monthly vitamins

50._______ Monthly beauty parlor/barber shop

51._______ Monthly nonprescription medication

52._______ Monthly cosmetics, toiletries, and sundries

53._______ Monthly gifts from child(ren) to others (other children, relatives, teachers, etc.)

54._______ Monthly camp or summer activities

55._______ Monthly clubs (Boy/Girl Scouts, etc.)

56._______ Monthly time-sharing expenses

57._______ Monthly miscellaneous

58.$_______ SUBTOTAL (Add lines 36 through 57.)

MONTHLY EXPENSES FOR CHILD(REN) FROM ANOTHER RELATIONSHIP (other than court-ordered child support)

59.$________________________________________________________________________________

60.__________________________________________________________________________________

61.__________________________________________________________________________________

62.__________________________________________________________________________________

63.$_______ SUBTOTAL (Add lines 59 through 62.)

Florida Family Law Rules of Procedure Form 12.902(c), Family Law Financial Affidavit (Long Form) (10/21)

MONTHLY INSURANCE:

64.$______ Health insurance (if not listed on lines 23 or 45)

65._______ Life insurance

66._______ Dental insurance.

Other:

67.________________________________________________________________________________

68.________________________________________________________________________________

69. $_______ SUBTOTAL (Add lines 66 through 68, exclude lines 64 and 65.)

OTHER MONTHLY EXPENSES NOT LISTED ABOVE:

70.$______ Monthly dry cleaning and laundry

71._______Monthly clothing

72._______ Monthly medical, dental, and prescription (unreimbursed only)

73._______ Monthly psychiatric, psychological, or counselor (unreimbursed only)

74._______ Monthly non-prescription medications, cosmetics, toiletries, and sundries

75._______ Monthly grooming

76._______ Monthly gifts

77._______ Monthly pet expenses

78._______ Monthly club dues and membership

79._______ Monthly sports and hobbies

80._______ Monthly entertainment

81._______ Monthly periodicals/books/tapes/CDs

82._______ Monthly vacations

83._______ Monthly religious organizations

84._______ Monthly bank charges/credit card fees

85._______ Monthly education expenses

86._______ Other: (include any usual and customary expenses not otherwise mentioned in the items

listed above)________________________________________________________________

87.__________________________________________________________________________________

88.__________________________________________________________________________________

89.__________________________________________________________________________________

90. $_______ SUBTOTAL (Add lines 70 through 89.)

MONTHLY PAYMENTS TO CREDITORS: (only when payments are currently made by you on outstanding balances). List only last 4 digits of account numbers.

MONTHLY PAYMENT AND NAME OF CREDITOR(s):

91.$_________________________________________________________________________________

92.__________________________________________________________________________________

93.__________________________________________________________________________________

94.__________________________________________________________________________________

95.__________________________________________________________________________________

96.__________________________________________________________________________________

97.__________________________________________________________________________________

98.__________________________________________________________________________________

99.__________________________________________________________________________________

100._________________________________________________________________________________

101._________________________________________________________________________________

Florida Family Law Rules of Procedure Form 12.902(c), Family Law Financial Affidavit (Long Form) (10/21)

102._________________________________________________________________________________

103.______________________________________________________________________________

104. $_______ SUBTOTAL (Add lines 91 through 103.)

105. $_______ TOTAL MONTHLY EXPENSES:

(Add lines 25, 35, 58, 63, 69, 90, and 104 of Section II, Expenses.)

SUMMARY

106. $_______ TOTAL PRESENT MONTHLY NET INCOME (from line 27 of SECTION I. INCOME)

107. $_______ TOTAL MONTHLY EXPENSES (from line 105 above)

108. $_______ SURPLUS (If line 106 is more than line 107, subtract line 107 from line 106. This is the

amount of your surplus. Enter that amount here.)

109. ($______) (DEFICIT) (If line 107 is more than line 106, subtract line 106 from line 107. This is

the amount of your deficit. Enter that amount here.)

SECTION III. ASSETS AND LIABILITIES

A.ASSETS (This is where you list what you OWN.)

INSTRUCTIONS:

STEP 1: In column A, list a description of each separate item owned by you (and/or your spouse, if this is a petition for dissolution of marriage). Blank spaces are provided if you need to list more than one of an item.

STEP 2: If this is a petition for dissolution of marriage, check the line in Column A next to any item that you are requesting the judge award to you.

STEP 3: In column B, write what you believe to be the current fair market value of all items listed.

STEP 4: Use column C only if this is a petition for dissolution of marriage and you believe an item is “nonmarital,” meaning it belongs to only one of you and should not be divided. You should indicate to whom you believe the item belongs. (Typically, you will only use Column C if property was owned by one spouse before the marriage. See the “General Information for Self-Represented Litigants” found at the beginning of these forms and section 61.075(1), Florida Statutes, for definitions of “marital” and “nonmarital” assets and liabilities.)

Florida Family Law Rules of Procedure Form 12.902(c), Family Law Financial Affidavit (Long Form) (10/21)

A

ASSETS: DESCRIPTION OF ITEM(S)

LIST ONLY LAST FOUR DIGITS OF ACCOUNT NUMBERS. Check the line next to any asset(s) which you are requesting the judge award to you.

Cash (on hand)

Cash (in banks or credit unions)

Stocks/Bonds

Notes (money owed to you in writing)

Money owed to you (not evidenced by a note)

Real estate: (Home) (Other)

Business interests

Automobiles

Boats

B

C

 

Current

Nonmarital

 

Fair

(Check correct column)

Market

 

 

Value

 

 

 

Petitioner

Respondent

$

 

 

Florida Family Law Rules of Procedure Form 12.902(c), Family Law Financial Affidavit (Long Form) (10/21)

Form Characteristics

Fact Name Details
Form Purpose This form is used to provide a detailed financial affidavit in family law cases where an individual's gross income is $50,000 or more annually.
Exemptions The form is not required if simplified dissolution of marriage is filed, no minor children exist, or the court lacks financial jurisdiction.
Signing Requirement After completing the form, it must be signed before filing with the circuit court clerk.
Filing Deadline A copy of the completed form should be served to the other party within 45 days of being served with the petition.
Electronic Filing All documents may need to be filed electronically per Florida Rules of General Practice and Judicial Administration, unless exceptions apply.
Service by Email Required to serve documents by email after initial service process, following specific Florida Rules guidelines.
Income Calculation Income must be reported on a monthly basis, with guidelines provided for converting other payment schedules to monthly amounts.
Confidentiality If a party is a victim of specific crimes, they may request confidentiality and not disclose their address on the form.
Governing Law This form falls under the Florida Family Law Rules of Procedure, specifically Rule 12.285.

Guidelines on Utilizing Notice Florida

Once you have gathered all necessary information, you can proceed to fill out the Notice Florida form accurately. This process involves providing details about your income and expenses to ensure everything is documented properly. Follow these steps carefully to complete the form.

  1. Gather your financial documents, including recent pay stubs, tax returns, and records of any additional income.
  2. Begin the form by entering your full legal name at the top of the document.
  3. Fill in the case number and the division in the designated spaces.
  4. In Section I, list your age and occupation.
  5. Check the appropriate box indicating your employment status (unemployed, employed, or retired).
  6. If employed, provide your employer’s name, address, and phone number. Indicate your pay rate and how often you are paid (weekly, bi-weekly, monthly, etc.).
  7. Document your last year’s gross income under the appropriate categories for both you and the other party, if known.
  8. Calculate your present monthly gross income by listing each income source separately. This should include salary, bonuses, business income, and any other relevant income.
  9. Carefully add up all income sources to obtain your total present monthly gross income.
  10. In the deductions section, list your monthly expenses, including taxes and any other deductions from your income.
  11. Complete the remaining sections of the form as required, providing all necessary details.
  12. Review the entire form for accuracy and completeness before signing it.
  13. Photocopy the completed form for your records.
  14. File the original form with the clerk of the circuit court in the appropriate county.
  15. Make sure to serve a copy of the filed form on the other party, following the specified service method, within 45 days of being served.

What You Should Know About This Form

1. When should the Notice Florida form be used?

The Notice Florida form should be used in family law cases that require a financial affidavit from individuals whose gross annual income is $50,000 or more. However, there are exceptions. If you are filing a simplified dissolution of marriage where both parties waive the affidavit, if there are no minor children or support issues with an existing settlement agreement, or if the court does not have jurisdiction over financial matters, this form is not necessary.

2. What are the next steps after completing the form?

After completing the form, you must sign it and file it with the clerk of the circuit court in the county where the case was initiated. A copy of the form must be served to the other party within 45 days of being served with the initial petition unless it was included with the initial filing. Service can be made by mail, email, or hand delivery, following specific protocols laid out by Florida law.

3. How should the form be filed or served?

The completed Notice Florida form can be filed electronically or in person. When serving another party, ensure that the method is compliant with Florida Rule of General Practice and Judicial Administration 2.516. If mailed, the form must be postmarked on the date noted in the certificate of service, and if delivered by email, it should arrive the same day. The court must also receive a filed copy of the form.

4. Is electronic filing required for self-represented litigants?

No, electronic filing is not required for self-represented litigants. However, if you decide to file electronically, you must adhere to the guidelines specified in Florida Rule of General Practice and Judicial Administration 2.525 and follow the procedures pertinent to your specific judicial circuit.

5. What information is crucial for serving documents electronically?

If you choose to participate in electronic service, you must serve all documents by email following the same rule. Initial service of process must be done by a sheriff or certified process server. Your email address must be designated using Florida Supreme Court Approved Family Law Form 12.915, and it is required on every form you submit that requires your signature.

6. What should I do if I want my address to remain confidential?

If there is a court order protecting your address due to being a victim of certain crimes, do not include your address on the form. Instead, you should file a Request for Confidential Filing of Address using Florida Supreme Court Approved Family Law Form 12.980(h).

7. How do I report my monthly income if it’s not earned on a monthly basis?

When reporting income that is not received monthly, it is crucial to convert the amounts into a monthly format. Different methods are provided for various pay schedules including hourly, daily, weekly, and bi-weekly. Ensure that all income and expenses are stated on a monthly basis to maintain consistency in reporting.

Common mistakes

Filling out the Notice Florida form can be a straightforward process, but many make common mistakes that could lead to complications. One prevalent error is failing to determine whether you actually need this form. If your individual gross income is below $50,000 or if certain conditions apply, you may not need to file the financial affidavit. It's crucial to confirm your eligibility before proceeding.

Another mistake involves incorrect filling or not providing information in the required format. The form must be typed or printed in black ink. Neglecting this guideline can result in the form being deemed unacceptable. Additionally, some people forget to sign the form after completing it, which makes it invalid. Remember, without a signature, the affidavit does not meet the necessary legal standards.

Many also struggle with calculating their income correctly. Presenting income in a monthly format is essential. If you are paid weekly, bi-weekly, or in another way, the calculations can become confusing. People often skip crucial steps, like detailing where the amounts come from. While it's tempting to estimate, accuracy is key to avoiding issues later on.

A common oversight is failing to serve a copy of the affidavit to the other party within 45 days of being served with the petition. This service must be done following specific rules, including how to record the date on the certificate of service. Ignoring this responsibility can lead to further legal delays and complications.

Moreover, some filers miss the need to attach additional documentation, particularly for business income or unusual expenses. If your income comes from odd sources or you have unique deductions, listing them separately helps clarify your financial situation. Neglecting to include this information can mislead as well as complicate your case.

Another error includes not keeping a personal copy of the completed form. It's essential to maintain records for your reference. Having a copy not only serves as a backup but can also assist you in future financial disclosures or discussions.

In addition, misunderstanding the electronic filing and service rules often leads to complications. If you choose to file documents electronically, follow the established protocols carefully. Not adhering to these technical guidelines can result in rejected filings.

Lastly, many individuals fail to review the entire form for completeness and accuracy before submitting it. Simple clerical errors can diminish credibility and might cause unnecessary delays. Reviewing your form is an essential final step that should not be overlooked.

Documents used along the form

When involved in family law cases in Florida, several forms and documents may be necessary in conjunction with the Notice Florida form. Each document serves a specific purpose in the legal process, ensuring compliance with court requirements and facilitating communication between parties. Below is a list of relevant forms commonly used alongside the Notice Florida form.

  • Family Law Financial Affidavit (Short Form): This document is typically used by individuals with a gross income of less than $50,000 per year. It outlines the individual's financial situation, which may impact support and division of assets.
  • Certificate of Service: This form confirms that documents have been properly served to the other party involved in the case. It includes details about how and when service was made.
  • Designation of Current Mailing and E-Mail Address: This form allows parties to establish their official mailing and email addresses for correspondence related to the case. It ensures that all communications are sent to the correct address.
  • Request for Confidential Filing of Address: This document is filed by individuals seeking to keep their addresses confidential due to certain safety concerns, such as domestic violence.
  • Petition for Dissolution of Marriage: This is the formal request to the court to end a marriage. It outlines the grounds for divorce and any other related matters such as custody or asset division.
  • Child Support Guidelines Worksheet: This worksheet helps to determine the appropriate amount of child support based on the financial capabilities of both parents. It requires the inclusion of various financial details.
  • Marital Settlement Agreement: A legally binding document that outlines the agreement reached between spouses regarding the terms of their divorce. It addresses issues like property division, alimony, and child custody.
  • Final Judgment of Dissolution of Marriage: This document, issued by the court, officially dissolves the marriage and includes any necessary orders regarding child support, custody, and property division.
  • Motion for Temporary Relief: This motion requests urgent, temporary orders from the court regarding issues such as child support, custody, or use of marital property while the case is pending.
  • Subpoena: A legal document ordering someone to appear in court or produce documents. In family law cases, it may be used to gather financial information or other relevant evidence.

Understanding these forms and documents can significantly simplify the legal process. Everyone involved should ensure they complete and file the necessary paperwork accurately and timely to support their case effectively. It is advisable to consult the relevant instructions or seek legal assistance if uncertain about any form.

Similar forms

  • Family Law Financial Affidavit (Short Form): This form is a simpler version that may be utilized when an individual's gross income is below $50,000. It collects similar financial information but in a more concise format, aimed at expediting the process for less complicated financial situations.
  • Income and Expense Declaration (California): This document serves a similar purpose in California family law cases, capturing financial details of both parties. Like the Notice Florida form, it requires a detailed accounting of income and expenses to assist the court in making determinations about support and division of property.
  • Statement of Net Worth (New York): Used in New York, this form gathers comprehensive financial information about both parties. Similar to the Notice Florida form, it focuses on net worth to help the court evaluate financial claims in divorce proceedings.
  • Financial Disclosure Form (Illinois): This document requires parties to disclose their financial circumstances in divorce cases. It is akin to the Notice Florida form in its requirement for detailed financial reporting and its purpose in assisting the court in making equitable decisions.
  • Financial Affidavit (Texas): This Texas form collects information regarding an individual's finances during divorce or custody cases. Its similarity lies in the need for transparency and the provision of financial details to facilitate fair judgments.
  • Affidavit of Financial Status (Nevada): In Nevada, this affidavit serves to provide a clear picture of an individual’s financial condition, akin to the Notice Florida form. Both documents are intended to inform the court about the parties' financial stability.
  • Financial Information Statement (Massachusetts): This form evaluates a party’s financial status, similar in function to the Notice Florida form, as it gathers essential financial data during divorce proceedings to assist in support determinations.
  • Declaration of Disclosure (California): This document is similar to the Notice Florida form in that it gathers comprehensive financial information regarding income and expenses to inform custody and support decisions.
  • Financial Affidavit for Divorce Proceedings (Ohio): In Ohio, this affidavit captures similar financial details to ensure equitable distribution during divorce, mirroring the purpose of the Notice Florida form.
  • Affidavit of Income and Expenses (Michigan): In Michigan, this affidavit collects detailed income and expense information akin to the Notice Florida form, which is essential for determining support and related financial matters.

Dos and Don'ts

When filling out the Notice Florida form, there are essential dos and don'ts to follow. Adhering to these guidelines can help ensure that the process goes smoothly and efficiently.

  • Do ensure your individual gross annual income meets the $50,000 threshold, unless exceptions apply.
  • Do type or print the form in black ink for clarity.
  • Do sign the form after completing it to validate your information.
  • Do file the form with the clerk of the circuit court in your county.
  • Do keep a copy of the completed form for your personal records.
  • Don’t leave any required fields blank; provide all necessary information.
  • Don’t forget to serve a copy of this form to the other party within the specified 45 days.
  • Don’t submit income or expense amounts without converting them to a monthly basis if needed.
  • Don’t neglect to follow the electronic service requirements if you choose to serve documents via email.
  • Don’t include your personal address at the bottom of the form if you have been a victim of certain crimes; follow special filing procedures instead.

Misconceptions

Misconceptions about the Notice Florida form can lead to confusion for individuals involved in family law cases. Here are four common misunderstandings:

  • Only High-Income Earners Need to Use the Form: Many believe this form is only for those with an income substantially above $50,000. However, if your individual gross income is $50,000 or more, you must complete it. If you earn less, you may be exempt from using this form, provided certain conditions are met.
  • Filing the Form is Optional: Some people think that completing and filing the Notice Florida form is optional if they have legal representation. In reality, while an attorney may guide you, this form is generally required in family law cases where financial matters are involved, regardless of your representation status.
  • All Documents Can Be Mailed: There is a belief that mailing the Notice Florida form is sufficient for serving the other party. However, the form must be served in specific ways, such as via email or hand delivery, in accordance with Florida rules, to ensure it is valid and properly documented.
  • Once Filed, Nothing More is Required: Some individuals misunderstand that filing the form is the final step. In fact, after filing, you must also serve the other party and retain proof of service, keeping in mind deadlines and strict compliance to avoid legal repercussions.

Key takeaways

Here are key takeaways about using the Notice Florida form:

  • This form is necessary for family law cases involving an individual gross income of $50,000 or more per year.
  • Complete the form using either a typewriter or black ink.
  • Sign the form before filing it with the clerk of the circuit court in your county.
  • After filing, serve a copy of the form on the other party within 45 days unless served with initial papers.
  • Documents must be served by mail, email, or hand delivery, adhering to Florida's rules.
  • Electronic filing is required for most documents; be aware of the specific procedural requirements.
  • Consider e-service options carefully since all documents must typically be served electronically.
  • If you need to keep your address confidential due to safety concerns, you must file a separate form.
  • When converting income, ensure that amounts reflect a monthly basis and follow the provided formulas.
  • If someone helps you complete the form, they must provide their contact information and a disclosure.

Understanding these points will help you navigate the form filling process more efficiently.