The process of going through a divorce can be very stressful and emotional, even when the separation is amicable. At Easley & McDonald, we understand the gravity of this decision and are prepared and able to assist you with the process. As long as either party has been a resident of the State of Florida for at least six months, a divorce case may be filed in Florida, in the county where the married couple last resided together. Divorces involve property distribution, spousal support, timesharing, and child support.
When both parties to a divorce are able to reach a full agreement on the relevant topics, we are able to assist with an uncontested divorce. This involves drafting the agreements themselves, as well as the required pleadings and other documents to be filed with the Court. It also involves filing all documents on your behalf, and attending a final hearing to ensure that your case is handled properly from start to finish. Even when both parties agree on everything, it is important to consult with attorneys, as there are legal requirements in Florida regarding timesharing and support. There are also laws regarding property distribution, and gaining advice and counsel about your rights may assist with reaching a fair agreement. Experienced attorneys can also assist with ensuring that the agreements limit any exposure to future issues and litigation by making the agreements comprehensive. This uncontested path is much more peaceful and cost-effective than a high-conflict, heavily litigated divorce.
We also understand that uncontested divorces are the exception and not the rule. The attorneys at Easley & McDonald are also experienced litigators and are prepared to fight for you, when and if necessary. In a contested divorce, we are prepared to file pleadings requesting all of the relief you are seeking from the Court, and to be by your side every step of the way. This will include attending a required mediation conference, where it is possible and often likely that even the most heated cases will reach some type of agreement, even if temporary in nature. In the event that your case does not settle at mediation, we will zealously advocate for you to ensure that your position is heard by the Court.
In Florida, there is a presumption that both parents will have equal time with their children, and will retain equal parental rights. We will assist you with determining what parenting arrangements are best for your children and your family so that your children’s best interests are always the priority. We will ensure that we obtain all of the relevant financial information from both you and your spouse, so that child support is properly determined in accordance with the relevant Florida statutes.
When obtaining and analyzing this financial information, we are also analyzing income, spending habits, and lifestyles. These are all relevant and necessary for us to have a complete understanding of the marital monies, to assist in the alimony, or spousal support, analysis. We will represent your interests in this regard, whether you are asking for support, or being asked to pay support. In doing so, we will compare the financial information with the law, and assist in influencing which type of alimony is appropriate, as well as the amount of alimony to be paid or received.
When it comes to property distribution, we are prepared and experienced in handling both basic matters involving a home and a vehicle, and more complex matters which may require business valuations, appraisals, and the engagement of other professionals. We work closely with forensic accountants when necessary, to ensure that all assets and liabilities are properly accounted for and valued.
We also understand that there is no such thing as a standard or “cookie cutter” divorce. Just like every family is unique, so is every divorce. We treat each and every case as if it is novel, and analyze each case with a fresh perspective. Contact our office for a free consultation to see how we can assist you.