Marriage

Q: Is there a waiting period in the state of Florida for getting married after a couple applies for a marriage license? Are blood tests required, and do you have to apply in the county you live in? Can a minor apply for a license?

A: Yes and no. There is normally a 3-day waiting period as of January 1, 1999. However, if both parties have taken a 4-hour premarital preparation course given by a minister or counselor registered with the Clerk of the Circuit Court, the waiting period is waived, and the license fee is reduced.

If only one applicant took the course, the waiting period is still required.

If neither applicant is a Florida resident, the waiting period is not required.

If one applicant is not a Florida resident, and the other is a Florida resident and has taken the premarital course, the waiting period is still required.

Blood tests have not been required since this test was abolished October 1, 1986.

A marriage license may be applied for and solemnized in any Florida county.

Minors, who under oath, swear that they are parents or expectant parents of a child may apply. In addition, the pregnancy must be verified by a written statement from a licensed physician.

A previously married minor may also apply.

A person age 16 or 17 may apply with the consent of both parents or guardian, unless the parents are divorced and only one parent has full custody.

Divorce

Q: My husband and I have mutually agreed on a divorce. We have heard the State of Florida has something called a "Simplified Divorce." What is it and would we be eligible?

A: Simplified Divorce is a fast, easy and inexpensive procedure for ending a marriage for eligible couples. To be eligible:

• Both must agree that the marriage cannot be saved.
• Both must agree on how to divide the property and/or debts.
• There must be no minor children of the marriage, and the wife cannot be pregnant.
• At least one of you must have been a resident of Florida for the past six months.
• Both parties must come to the Clerk of Circuit Court's office with picture ID's, and fill out a Petition for Simplified Dissolution of Marriage. Forms are available in the Clerk's office. An attorney is not required, but if either of you has any legal questions, consulting an attorney prior to filing is advised. A hearing to finalize the divorce will be scheduled as soon as possible after a 20 day waiting period. Both parties must appear at the hearing. The final judgment is then taken by both parties to the Circuit Civil Division of the Clerk's office.