Sometimes the most difficult part of divorce isn’t fighting — it’s silence. If your spouse is ignoring court papers, refusing to respond, or dragging their feet at every step, you’re not stuck. Here’s what you need to know when they won’t play ball.
Can You Still Get Divorced?
Yes. In every state, including Florida, you can proceed with divorce even if your spouse refuses to participate — as long as you follow the right legal steps.
Step 1: Prove They Were Served
If your spouse doesn’t file an answer or show up, the court will need proof that they were properly served. This means:
- A completed Proof of Service form from a process server or sheriff
- Alternative service (by publication or mail), if allowed and approved by the judge
Step 2: Wait for the Deadline to Pass
Most states require your spouse to respond within 20–30 days of being served. If they don’t respond, you can file a request for a default judgment — essentially asking the court to proceed without them.
Step 3: File for Default
You’ll need to submit a formal request for default, often along with a proposed judgment, financial disclosures, and a declaration explaining what you’re asking for and why.
Splitifi’s AI assistant can walk you through this and help draft the supporting paperwork.
Step 4: Go to the Default Hearing (If Required)
Some courts require a short hearing where you present your side — even if your spouse doesn’t show. Bring documentation. Be clear. Don’t exaggerate. Judges want to see that you’ve been reasonable and followed the rules.
What Not to Do
- Don’t harass your spouse to respond — let the legal process work
- Don’t stop serving or filing just because they ignore you
- Don’t agree to verbal compromises — get everything in writing, filed, and stamped
Emotional Fallout of a Silent Divorce
Being ignored can feel worse than fighting. It’s invalidating. Infuriating. But silence doesn’t stop your progress — unless you let it. Document everything. File on time. Let the court see who’s showing up and who’s hiding.
Use Splitifi’s custody and communication tracker to prove your consistency. Let our AI help prep your default motion and filing flow. You don’t have to wait for someone else’s permission to move on.
