Frequently Asked Questions
What does "Pro Se" mean?
“Pro se” is another term for someone who does not have an attorney and is representing himself or herself in court. Since a pro se litigant acts as his or her own attorney, it is their responsibility to be aware of laws and legal rules before appearing in court. Please be aware that neither a Judge, General Magistrate, case manager, clerk nor any other court personnel is allowed to give you legal advice.
How long will it be before I hear from a case manager?
You will generally hear from a case manager within 14 days of filing, but it may take longer during periods of peak demand or staff shortages. At this time, you will be notified if there are any other documents which need to be filed in the form of a review letter.
How long does the process take and when will I have a hearing?
Average 4-6 months.
What is Service by Publication?
Click here for more information.
How do I complete the Affidavit of Diligent Search and Inquiry?
Click here for more information.
What if I am moving while my case is pending?
If you move while your case is pending, you must file form number 12.915, the Designation of Current Mailing and E-Mail Address form with the clerk. This form can be found at www.flcourts.gov. Please keep in mind that calling in and telling the case manager you have moved is not sufficient. All mail will continue to be sent to the last official address on the court docket until such time as you officially change the address by filing the aforementioned form. Please do not rely on filing a change of address with the post office alone. Not keeping the court notified of an address change could affect the receipt of important court documents.
Why am I being required to take a parenting class?
Florida Statute §61.21(4) requires that all parties to a dissolution of marriage with children or a paternity action that involves issues of parental responsibility are required to complete a parenting course before a Final Judgment is entered. The Court may hold any parent who fails to complete the course in contempt and impose appropriate sanctions. The courses mandated by Administrative Order in the Fourth Judicial Circuit are “Children First in Divorce” given at Hope Have Children’s Clinic, "Separate Yet Together" given at First Coast Behavior Solutions, and "Great Kids through Great Co-Parenting" given at Jewish Family Community Services.
When you have your case number you may register for one of the following classes:
YOU WILL BE GIVEN A CASE NUMBER AFTER YOU FILE YOUR DOCUMENTS: YOU MUST REGISTER FOR ONE OF THE FOLLOWING IN-CLASS PARENTING CLASSES:
Certified Parenting Class
Per Administrative Order 1993-08
You must visit the Florida Department of Children and Families website www.myflfamilies.com
You can choose from the local and online providers listed.
The providers listed are approved by the Florida Department of Children and Families to offer the Parent Education and Family Stabilization course in the State of Florida.
The courses are a minimum of 4 hours and are designed to educate, train, and assist divorcing parents in regard to the impact of divorce on parents and children, as required by Chapter 61.21, F.S.
How can I cancel/reschedule mediation?
Your case manager will refer your case when it is ready to Alternative Dispute Resolution/Mediation. If you have a conflict with your mediation hearing you must contact their department at (904) 255-1120.
I need an interpreter for the hearing - what should I do?
If you need a foreign language interpreter to fully participate in your hearing, it is your responsibility to bring a qualified interpreter as the Court does not provide a foreign language interpreter free of charge for family law cases.
If you are a person with a disability who needs any accommodation in order to participate in this proceeding, you are entitled at no cost to you, to the provision of certain assistance. Please contact the ADA Coordinator at crtintrp@coj.net or (904) 255-1695 at least 7 days before your scheduled court appearance, or immediately upon receiving this notification if the time before the scheduled appearance is less than 7 days; if you are hearing or voice impaired, call 711.