Mascotte, FL Divorce Law Firms & Lawyers

In short, generally no, you cannot, unless there has been domestic violence in some form, and even then, possibly not, because you are married and there is a child involved, even if it his child from a previous relationship. You may want to consider looking into doing a collaborative divorce in a situation like this, which generally is more cost-effective and time-effective than a litigated divorce.

  In order to file an action for divorce in Florida either the husband or wife (or both) must have resided in Florida for 6 months prior to filing the dissolution action.  You say you have been separated from your husband a "about" 20 years.  So, I am presuming that you have lived in Florida for at lesat the last 6 months.  So, the problem becomes whether the Florida court has jurisdiction over your husband, who apparently does not live in Florida nor has   he ever lived here with you. Do you even know where he is currently living?  You will have to get him served, either personally or through publication.  The Court may be able to actually divorce you, but the court cannot adjudicate any property rights, division of assets and liabilities, equitable distribution, alimony or child issues.  Of course, these may not be issues for you so divorcing here and getting the divorce alone may be all you need.  I would urge you to check with a marital and family law attorney who could review more specific facts of your case and advise you accordingly. Best of luck, Cindy S. Vova Law Offices of Cindy S. Vova, P.A. Broward County:954-316-3496  Boca Raton: 561-962-2785 info@vovalaw.com