The nature of divorce is often a troubling and emotionally devastating experience that leaves families with many questions about what the future holds, which is why a Broward County divorce lawyer here at The Finizio Law Group, P.A. is here to help provide the clarity you need. We understand just how much is at stake, and you have our pledge to handle your case with care. Contact us today to learn more about divorce in Florida and how our compassionate legal team can assist you.
Broward County Divorce Lawyer | Dedicated to Helping Your Family Smoothly Navigate Divorce
Divorce is a complex and life-altering process. It is a big decision for a couple that carries a lasting impact on the familial structure, and it can be difficult to proceed with a clear mind. There are many intricacies to divorce and family law in Florida that you should be aware of when you have decided to undergo divorce. An experienced Broward County family law attorney here at The Finizio Law Group, P.A. is prepared to effectively take you through each step of the process ahead.
No-Fault Divorce in Florida
Florida is a no-fault divorce state, which means that divorce is not considered the fault of either party. You cannot file for divorce under traditional grounds such as adultery, abandonment, or cruelty; however, a reason for the dissolution of marriage is still required. To pursue a divorce in Florida, you must show that you have been a resident for at least six months prior to filing. In addition, one of the two parties must show that the marriage is irretrievably broken.
Florida Dissolution of Marriage Options
In Florida, couples may pursue either a regular dissolution of marriage or a simplified dissolution of marriage. A regular dissolution of marriage consists of either a contested divorce or an uncontested divorce. A contested divorce occurs when spouses cannot agree on the division of marital property, marital debts, issues involving minor children, and other major concerns. To undergo an uncontested divorce, both parties mutually agree on the specifics of these issues through a marital settlement agreement. A compassionate Broward County divorce lawyer will work closely with you to protect your interests in divorce and work toward amicable terms.
Some couples may be eligible to file for a simplified dissolution, or simplified divorce. These are designed for couples who may choose against seeking the aid of an attorney. As part of a simplified divorce, couples must correctly file all necessary documents and appear before a judge when the final dissolution is granted. Although this may be a viable option, legal counsel is strongly advised to resolve issues regarding property division, child support, child custody, time-sharing, and many other legal issues that will arise along the way to ensure the best possible results for you and your family.
Modifying Your Divorce Agreement
For most people, in the months or years after a divorce, their lives change. This is understandable, and at times, a significant change may warrant a modification to the initial divorce agreement so that it better reflects the individual’s current situation. Fortunately, Florida courts hold that former spouses can seek a modification to their initial divorce agreement as long as they can prove there has been a significant and lasting change in circumstances. Some of the divorce terms that most commonly require modifications are as follows:
Alimony
Oftentimes, a divorce agreement will determine an alimony structure that both spouses must follow. In these agreements, the financially dependent spouse will receive alimony payments from the financially independent spouse. That being said, certain circumstances may warrant a modification to alimony agreements, including the following:
- The dependent spouse got a higher paying job or otherwise came into a large sum of money, warranting a decrease or termination of alimony
- The dependent spouse remarried, warranting a decrease or termination of alimony
- The independent spouse requires expensive medical treatment, warranting a decrease in alimony payments
- One spouse was demoted or fired from their job, warranting a modification to alimony
Child Custody
Florida courts make all decisions regarding child custody according to what they believe is in the child’s best interests. Not only will they consider your child’s best interests when determining your initial custody agreement, but they will also do so if you seek a modification to your custody agreement. Some of the scenarios that may constitute a child custody modification are as follows:
- One parent has developed a substance abuse problem
- One parent exposed the child to an incident of domestic violence
- One parent is looking to move far away with the child
- The child’s schedule has changed
Child Support
There are several circumstances that may even warrant the modification to a child support agreement, some of which are as follows:
- One parent is earning more money
- The child has special needs, warranting an extension on child support
- A change in parenting time schedule
- A change in expenses
Contact a Broward County Divorce Lawyer
At The Finizio Law Group, P.A., we understand that this is a troublesome moment in your life. We are dedicated to helping your family smoothly navigate divorce and set terms for a bright future. Our divorce attorneys have helped families pursue divorce and resolve family law issues in Florida for over 35 years. Allow our attorneys to help your family; call 954-645-7700 for a free legal consultation today, or simply contact us online. We are prepared to assist you through every step of the legal process ahead.
