Florida divorce
The decision to end your marriage is difficult and stressful. I have represented hundreds of clients and guided each one through every stage, with one goal: minimize the damage and protect your interests.
No-fault divorce
Florida is a no-fault state. You do not have to prove grounds such as domestic violence or adultery. You simply allege in your Petition for Dissolution of Marriage that the marriage is irretrievably broken, or that your spouse is incompetent.
There is one gate to pass first: residency. You must be a continuous resident of Florida for at least 6 months before you file. That requirement establishes the court's authority to hear your case.
Getting your divorce started
- 01
File the petition
The Petition for Dissolution of Marriage is e-filed, along with the Notice of Social Security Number, Notice of Related Cases, Notice of Confidential Filing, and the UCCJEA if minor children are involved.
- 02
Serve your spouse
The clerk issues a Summons, served by a private process server or a deputy sheriff. The other party then has 20 days to respond in writing, or risk a default.
- 03
Disclose, negotiate, resolve
Most cases end in a marital settlement agreement. If yours does not settle, we set it for trial and present it to the judge.
Rule 12.285: mandatory disclosure
Once your spouse responds, each party must disclose bank statements, credit card statements, pay stubs, W-2s, tax returns, retirement statements, and more, unless both parties waive it. You have a 45-day window to comply.
One of the first things I do after being retained is hand you a detailed list of everything that must be disclosed, because missing the window invites a Motion to Compel.
Most divorces are won in preparation, not in the courtroom.
The issues that decide your case
The most common issues in a Florida divorce are the equitable distribution of marital assets and liabilities, alimony, and child-related matters. Each is covered in detail on its own page below.
Related reading
Let's talk about your case.
813.438.6869Let me draw on more than thirty years of trial experience to build the strongest possible case. Call or email to schedule a consultation.