Florida Divorce Lawyers

Handling Simple & Complex Divorces

Making the decision to divorce is never easy. When there are children or many assets involved, the situation becomes even more complex. The Florida divorce attorneys at Cardenas, Singer & Associates can guide you through the process, protecting your best interests, and helping you seek an agreement that is right for your family's situation.

The Divorce Process in Florida

Florida is a “no fault” state. This means that spouses need to tell the court that the marriage is “irretrievably broken” to be granted a divorce. There is a six-month residency requirement, so at least one spouse must live in Florida for at least six months prior to filing for a divorce. Typically, one spouse will file a petition for dissolution and the other will answer the petition.

A simplified dissolution may be possible if both spouses:

• Agree that the marriage is irretrievably broken
• Agree to this type of divorce
• Have agreed on distribution of assets and debts
• Have no minor or dependent children (biological or adopted)
• The wife is not pregnant
• Meet Florida’s 6-month residency requirement

Florida uses equitable distribution to divide marital property. This means that the court will divide property in a way that is deemed equitable, which may not be evenly split. There are several factors the courts use to make this determination. This may include the contributions made during the marriage both in working and caring for children, the duration of the marriage, the economic circumstances of each partner, the contributions of one spouse to the other’s education or career, and many other factors.

Child & Spousal Support

If there are minor or dependent children, one spouse may be ordered to pay the other child support. In some situations, alimony or spousal support may also be awarded. The amount and duration of spousal support payments is determined by the duration of the marriage, the standard of living during the marriage, the earning capacity and employability of each spouse, the financial resources of each party, contributions made during the marriage, all source of income, and other factors. It is best to speak with our Florida divorce lawyers to get advice about your specific situation.