Family Law Interrogatories in Florida

In Florida, family law interrogatories are written questions that must be answered under oath by the opposing party in a divorce, paternity matter, or other family law case. They are used to gather information about the other party’s assets, income, debts, and other important information relevant to the case.

Getting a divorce or going through any family law proceeding in Florida is hard enough. You shouldn’t have to bother yourself with challenges surrounding Florida family law procedures like interrogatories. It’s recommended that you speak with a family law attorney in Orlando, FL to discuss your situation and receive help.

Answering Family Law Interrogatories

Interrogatories sounds like a scary word. In reality, it’s just a list of questions from the other side in a civil case, like a divorce. Many interrogatories can be answered by responding to the questions. Others may require proof through documentation.

That’s when things can get complicated. Especially in a contentious divorce, you want to be careful what documents you give to your spouse or their legal counsel.

When you receive interrogatories, they will come with a summons (notice of service), giving you a date you must return your answers or documents to the other party.

The summons sounds intrusive at first glance. It may state that you are ordered to appear with certain documents at a particular place or on a specific date. Keep reading, however, as it may also state that you can avoid appearance by providing answers and supportive documents to the sender.

You also have to respond within a specific timeframe, so don’t ignore any interrogatories you receive. Under Florida law, interrogatories must typically be answered within 30 days after they are served, and the person who is served with interrogatories must sign and return a copy of the interrogatories to the person who served them. You must also answer the questions under oath. If you don’t answer the interrogatories, the court can order you to pay the other party’s attorney’s fees and costs and hold you in contempt of court.

Purpose of Interrogatories in a Divorce or Other Family Law Proceeding

The purpose of interrogatories is to obtain information to supplement facts received through other discovery methods, such as depositions or requests for documents. Interrogatories can be used to find out about the other party’s finances, employment history, educational background, and any other relevant information.

They can also be used to force the other party to reveal information they might otherwise be unwilling to disclose. In Florida, the questions must be relevant to the case and meet certain other requirements. The questions must also be specific enough so that the party being asked can answer them without having to guess or make assumptions.

Speak with an Orlando Family Law Attorney Today For Help Answering or Sending Interrogatories

Getting a divorce or dealing with any family law issue is an emotional and challenging process. Answering interrogatories can seem overwhelming. When you have a trusted and seasoned family lawyer to help you and support you, that can make all the difference.

Contact Our Family Law Firm in Orlando, FL

Contact the experienced Orlando family lawyers at McMichen, Cinami & Demps today for legal assistance. Contact our Orlando, FL office at (407) 898-2161 to schedule a free consultation.

McMichen, Cinami & Demps – Orlando Office
1500 E Concord St
Orlando, FL 32803