While divorce may not be an uncommon experience, it is certainly a personal event that can be emotionally devastating. In the Miami area alone, over half a million people have been through a divorce, making up approximately 13% of the population. However, the legal process need not be overwhelming. At the Law Offices of Sandy T. Fox, P.A., our divorce attorneys are prepared to protect the rights of Miami residents. A Florida Bar Board Certified specialist in Marital and Family Law, Miami divorce lawyer Sandy T. Fox has the resources and experience needed to advocate for your interests throughout all stages of the proceedings.
The Process of Dissolving a Marriage in FloridaFiling for divorce, or dissolution of marriage, in Florida generally requires proof that a marriage exists, that one of the spouses has resided in the state for the six months prior to filing, and that the marriage is irretrievably broken. Although Florida is a no-fault divorce state, the conduct of the spouses may be considered in determining certain matters, such as distribution of marital assets, spousal support, and parental responsibilities.
Either spouse may file for a regular dissolution of marriage, or both can agree to a simplified dissolution of marriage if certain conditions are met. The simplified procedure allows spouses who agree on financial matters pertaining to the divorce to file together without litigating contested issues. Specifically, and in addition to the overall requirements discussed above, it requires that the spouses both agree to the simplified procedure, that the marriage is irretrievably broken, that the wife is not pregnant, that the couple does not have any minor or dependent children together, that neither party is seeking alimony, and that they agree as to the division of marital property and debts. A divorce attorney can help Miami residents work toward an agreement that allows them to qualify for this process.
A petition for regular dissolution of marriage, on the other hand, may be filed by either party in the county where either spouse resides or the county where they last lived together. It will require both parties to disclose financial documents and affidavits regarding their assets. If the couple has children together, the parties are required to file a child support guidelines worksheet. Although the court may consider and incorporate the parties’ written agreement as to property division, parental responsibilities, and other matters in the final judgment, there may be issues on which the parties cannot agree. In these situations, court proceedings may be held during which each spouse can present evidence and cross-examine witnesses on the contested issues. The judge will then enter a final judgment based on the evidence.
Explore Your Options with a Divorce Lawyer in the Miami AreaWhether you are concerned about child support, alimony, custody arrangements, or other family law matters, the experienced lawyers at the Law Offices of Sandy T. Fox, P.A. can help. If you are ready to seek legal representation for your divorce proceeding, schedule a confidential consultation by contacting the Law Offices of Sandy T. Fox, P.A. at 800.596.0579 or through our online form. Let our Miami divorce attorneys help you protect your rights and pursue a stable future for you and your children.