What to Do When the Clerk Rejects Your Document Filing (Florida Divorce Tips)

Anyone who’s ever tried to file divorce paperwork in Florida knows the feeling: you stand in line, hand over a stack of documents, and then… the clerk returns them with a rejection stamp. It’s frustrating, confusing, and sometimes embarrassing — especially if you thought you had everything correct.

The truth is, rejected filings are very common, but completely fixable. Here’s what you need to know if the clerk won’t accept your document the first time.

1. Don’t Panic — Rejection Happens Every Single Day

Florida clerks reject documents for all kinds of reasons, including:

• Missing signatures

• Incorrect notary information

• Wrong case number

• Blank sections on standardized forms

• Improper formatting

• Missing required attachments or exhibits

Even one unchecked box can stop your filing.

This doesn’t mean your case is over — it just means a correction is required.

2. Ask the Clerk Exactly Why It Was Rejected

Before you leave the counter or hang up the phone, ask for specifics:

✔️ Which page needs correction?

✔️ What information is missing?

✔️ Which form do they recommend?

✔️ Do I need to re-notarize?

✔️ Does it need to be e-filed instead of paper filed?

Pro Tip: Get it in writing if possible. Many clerks provide a rejection notice that lists the issue.

3. Check Florida Family Law Form Numbers

One of the biggest problems is using the wrong version of a form.

Florida updates family law forms regularly, especially:

• Financial affidavits

• Petitions

• Parenting plans

• Child support worksheets

• Mandatory disclosure forms

If you downloaded a form months ago, it might already be outdated.

Always verify you are using the most recent Florida Supreme Court family law form.

4. Make Sure Notary Sections Are Filled Out Properly

Clerks frequently reject notarized documents because of one missing detail.

Common notary issues include:

• Missing commission number

• Missing printed name

• Incorrect date format

• Using white-out

• Not initials on corrections

• Missing county and state information

If something was changed after notarizing, a new notarization is typically required.

5. Check the “Certificate of Service” Carefully

Florida courts require that most filings include a certificate of service stating:

• Who was served

• How they were served

• Address served to

• Date of service

• Signature

People forget this all the time — especially on:

• Answers

• Motions

• Parenting filings

• Notice of related cases

• Financial disclosures

If it’s missing, the clerk cannot accept it.

6. Include Every Required Attachment

A form might look simple, but many of them require additional documents, such as:

• Pay stubs

• Driver’s license copy

• Parenting class certificate

• Vehicle VIN numbers

• Property descriptions

• Deed copies

If there is a line that says “Attach additional pages if needed,” chances are you need that page.

7. Consider a Document Preparer for Re-Filing

Many people come to a document preparer after being rejected by the clerk.

A professional can:

• Reformat your documents correctly

• Add missing certificates, headings, and signatures

• Prepare exhibits and attach properly

• Make sure everything is in the right order

• Reduce multiple trips to the courthouse

We see rejected paperwork all the time — it’s fixable.

8. Final Checklist Before Re-Filing

Here’s a quick, repeatable checklist:

• ✔️ Correct form number

• ✔️ Updated Florida Supreme Court version

• ✔️ Signatures on all required pages

• ✔️ Notary stamp + commission number

• ✔️ Case number + division filled in

• ✔️ Certificate of service included

• ✔️ Copies made (usually 2–3)

• ✔️ Pay proper filing fee (if applicable)

Bring this list to the clerk’s office or use it before e-filing online.

Need Help Fixing a Rejected Filing?

It’s more common than you think — and it’s usually a simple fix.

📌 Marion County Legal Docs can:

• Review rejected paperwork

• Correct formatting issues

• Add proper notarization

• Assemble complete divorce packets

• Prepare financial affidavits

• Provide copies and scanning

Flat fee options available.

Bilingual services available.

Mobile notary available.

📞 Call or text: 352-537-8357

🌐 Marion County Legal Docs – Ocala, FL

💬 Free consultation