Default Judgment
A default judgment is a court ruling entered against a party who was properly served but failed to respond or appear in the case. In a Florida divorce, if the non-filing spouse does not answer the petition on time, the petitioner can ask the clerk or judge to enter a default and then finalize the divorce. The court may grant the terms requested in the petition, though it still independently decides issues like time-sharing and child support.
Last updated June 21, 2026
Legal Definition
A judgment entered under Fla. Fam. L. R. P. 12.140 against a respondent who failed to file or serve a required response, permitting the court to grant relief consistent with the pleadings, subject to statutory limits on child-related and support determinations.
Example
After the 20-day deadline passed with no response, the clerk entered a default judgment so the dissolution could be finalized.
Related Statutes
- 61.052
Related Terms
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