Dissolution of Marriage

Dissolution of Marriage (Divorce) is a method of terminating a marriage contract between two individuals. The process also legally divides marital assets (Division of Property) and debts and determines the care and custody of the children (Child Support) (Child Custody). Each state addresses these issues differently. However, most states follow the same basic principles and use relatively uniform standards.

Florida is a no-fault divorce state in which the spouses are not required to prove that the other caused the breakdown of the marriage. Either you or your spouse may obtain a divorce, even if one of you does not consent to the divorce.

In most divorces, the primary issues to be decided are alimony or spousal support, property division, and, if there are children, time sharing, and child support. When spouses agree on how to resolve these issues, whether by way of mediation or otherwise, they can usually obtain a divorce quickly. However, in many cases, divorcing spouses have disputes regarding their post-marriage financial arrangements and other issues pertaining to their children. Property division and alimony are often hotly contested issues in divorce proceedings. The early advice of a family law attorney may impact the ultimate result favorably.

Preparing for Divorce

By preparing for a divorce before it actually happens, you can reduce much of the stress and conflict that many go through during the divorce process. Planning ahead allows you to make sound decisions and sets you in the direction of preparing for your life after divorce, as well as helping you to avoid certain post-divorce pitfalls. Below are some things to think about as you begin preparing for a divorce.

The amount of information required for a divorce can be overwhelming, so it makes sense to begin gathering documents as soon as possible. You will need to have a record of names, account numbers, addresses, and phone numbers for all of your assets and debts. Don't forget bank accounts, credit cards, loans, stocks and bonds, retirement accounts, mortgages, and title information. It also helps to have tax returns for the last three years as well as pay stubs and employment information. If there is a business involved, get a copy of the tax records, assets, and debts. Other paperwork to make copies of are deeds, prenuptial agreements, wills, and powers of attorney.