On May 21, 2020, the Supreme Court of Florida issued an order (Administrative Order AOSC20-23 Amendment 2) regarding Comprehensive COVID-19 Emergency Measures for the Florida State Court. If you are currently in a divorce proceeding, or about to begin one, here are some key points for you to keep in mind.

Virtual hearings will continue. Here's how to prepare. 

Your divorce proceeding will take place remotely using virtual technology such as Zoom or Microsoft Teams. Although you won’t be physically going to the courthouse, you should still be court presentable during your virtual appearance.

When identifying yourself on the meeting platform, be sure to enter your full given name (no nicknames) in the prompt box since this is how the court will recognize you. It’s also a good idea to download and familiarize yourself with the virtual platform prior to the hearing so that you can work out any potential glitches.

Notarization requirements remain suspended, with a few exceptions.

The requirement for all family law forms to be notarized or signed in the presence of a deputy clerk also remains suspended if the following language is included before the filer’s signature, “Under penalties of perjury, I declare that I have read this document and the facts stated in it are true.” 

The exception does not apply to the Dissolution of Marriage (divorce) settlement agreements [Form 12.902(f)(1) Form 12.902(f)(2); and Form12.902(f)(3)] or any form that transfers ownership or property. These forms must still be notarized.