Contested Divorce With Children in St. Johns, FL

A contested divorce becomes more complex and emotional. In Florida, a contested divorce happens when the spouses do not agree on one or more critical issues.

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Guiding You Through Divorce: Protecting Your Rights in St. Johns, FL

Issues often include child custody, child support, alimony, division of assets, and debts. Understanding the details of a contested divorce in Florida is critical for those facing this situation. Our firm guides you through each step, providing clear advice and strong representation. Our contested divorce lawyers in St. Johns, FL, work hard to protect your rights and help ensure a successful outcome.

What Is a Contested Divorce?

In a contested divorce, the spouses disagree on their separation terms. Unlike an uncontested divorce, where both parties agree on all aspects, a contested divorce requires legal intervention to resolve disputes. Typical areas of disagreement include the division of property, alimony, child custody, and child support.

The Legal Process of a Contested Divorce

Filing the Petition

The process begins with one spouse filing a petition for dissolution of marriage. This document outlines the petitioner’s desires for the divorce terms. The petitioner then serves the petition to the other spouse, the respondent, who must answer within 20 days.

Discovery Phase

Next, both parties enter the discovery phase. This phase involves gathering evidence, including financial documents, electronic communications, and witness testimonies. It ensures both sides fully know the marital estate and other relevant information.

Mediation

Florida courts often require mediation before a trial. Mediation is an informal process in which a neutral third party helps spouses negotiate and reach agreements. It can save time and money and lead to a less adversarial resolution.

Trial

If mediation fails, the case proceeds to trial. Each spouse presents their case, and a judge decides on all contested issues. Florida's divorce laws, along with the evidence and testimonies provided, guide the judge's rulings.

Child Custody and Support

Child Custody

In Florida, child custody decisions, or time-sharing, focus on the child's best interests. Courts consider factors such as each parent’s ability to provide for the child, the child’s relationship with each parent, and the child's home environment. Both parents have shared parental responsibility, but one parent may have primary custody.

Child Support

Child support guarantees that parents meet the child’s financial needs. Florida uses guidelines that consider parents’ incomes and the time each parent spends with the child. The court may also consider medical expenses, educational costs, and other relevant factors.

Division of Assets and Debts

Florida follows the equitable distribution principle. This principle means that the court divides marital assets and debts, although it is not always equal. Factors influencing the division include the length of the marriage, each spouse’s contributions to the marriage, and each spouse’s economic circumstances. Marital assets include properties, vehicles, retirement accounts, and other possessions acquired during the marriage.

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Alimony

Alimony, or spousal support, is another contentious issue. Florida courts consider various factors, such as the length of the marriage, each spouse’s financial resources, and the standard of living established during the marriage. Types of alimony include temporary, bridge-the-gap, rehabilitative, durational, and permanent. The court aims to ensure that neither spouse suffers undue economic hardship post-divorce.

Legal Representation

Hiring an experienced attorney is crucial in a contested divorce. Legal representation provides several benefits:

Expert Guidance: Understanding Florida’s complex divorce laws and procedures can be daunting. An attorney can explain your rights and options.
Strong Advocacy: Emotions run high during a contested divorce—an attorney advocates for your best interests, presenting evidence and arguments.
Efficient Process: Legal professionals handle documentation, communication, and case management, ensuring a smooth, efficient handling of your divorce.

Contested Divorce Lawyers in St. Johns, Fl

A contested divorce in Florida involves maneuvering through complicated legal waters. Each case has unique challenges that require tailored solutions. You can achieve a fair and just resolution with the proper legal support. Florida Women’s Law Group stands ready to assist you with professional, compassionate care, helping you move forward. Contact us today online to discuss your case and explore your options during a consultation. You can also introduce yourself and ask questions of our contested divorce attorneys in St. Johns, FL.