Family & Matrimonial Law

Florida is a no-fault divorce state, meaning that parties can seek divorce without proving wrongdoing. Key considerations include property division, alimony, and addressing the needs of minor children. 

Florida emphasizes the best interests of the child when determining custody arrangements. The state uses a "time-sharing" model rather than the term "custody," focusing on how parental responsibilities and decision-making are divided. 

Child support is calculated based on a formula that considers both parents' incomes and\or earning ability, the number of children, and other factors. The goal is to ensure that the child’s needs are met adequately. 

Florida follows equitable distribution laws, meaning marital property is divided fairly but not necessarily equally. The court considers various factors, including the length of the marriage and each spouse’s economic circumstances. 

Alimony is awarded per Florida Statutes and has a variety of components. Alimony is based on on the length of the marriage, the financial needs and resources of each spouse, and their standard of living during the marriage. Florida recognizes several types of alimony, including temporary, bridge-the-gap, rehabilitative, and durational. 

Establishing paternity is crucial for matters of child support, custody, and visitation. In Florida, paternity can be established through a court order, acknowledgment by both parents, or genetic testing. 

Modifications of child support, custody arrangements, or alimony may be requested if there is a substantial change in circumstances since the final judgment. Depending on what you are seeking  to modify, a variety of factors determine what constitutes a substantial change in circumstances. 

Florida law provides protections for victims of domestic violence, including the issuance of restraining orders or injunctions for protection against domestic violence. 

A nuptial agreement  ("prenup" or "postnup") is a legal document that couples create before or after getting married. It outlines how their assets and debts will be divided in the event of divorce or separation. The agreement can also detail provisions for alimony.