<p>In this episode of <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://sassoguerrerohenderlite.github.io/whensplithappens/"><em>When Split Happens</em></a>, Jacksonville family law attorney <strong>Jay Henderlite</strong> of <strong>Sasso Guerrero &amp; Henderlite</strong> answers a question that surprises many couples: <em>Do you have to be legally separated before filing for divorce in Florida?</em> The short answer is no—but Florida’s divorce laws have important rules every spouse should understand before filing.</p><p>Jay explains why Florida does <strong>not recognize legal separation</strong>, how the state’s <strong>no-fault divorce system</strong> works, and what legally replaces separation under Florida law. Listeners will learn the two requirements for filing a divorce in Florida—<strong>the six-month residency rule</strong> and the standard of <strong>“irretrievable breakdown of the marriage.”</strong></p><p>This episode also covers common concerns for couples who are living apart but not yet divorced, including:</p><ul><li>Whether living separately affects divorce, custody, or time-sharing decisions</li><li>How income, debts, and marital assets are treated during separation</li><li>What happens if one spouse disagrees that the marriage is over</li><li>Whether Florida recognizes trial separations or separation agreements</li><li>How parents can establish temporary support or custody without filing for divorce</li><li>When a petition for support unconnected with dissolution may be appropriate</li></ul><p>Jay also discusses how informal separation can impact parenting arrangements, financial rights, and future court decisions—especially for families in <strong>Jacksonville and Northeast Florida</strong>.</p><p>If you’re considering divorce, recently separated, or trying to understand your legal options before taking the next step, this episode provides clear, Florida-specific guidance from an experienced <strong>Jacksonville divorce attorney</strong>.</p><p>Learn more about Florida divorce and family law at <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="http://familylawyerjax.com"><strong>familylawyerjax.com</strong></a>.</p><p>Connect with us on <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.youtube.com/@sgh_law">YouTube</a>, <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.facebook.com/SGHLaw">Facebook</a>, <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.instagram.com/sghfamlaw/">Instagram</a>, &amp; <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.tiktok.com/@sghlaw_">TikTok</a></p>