Winter Park Divorce Lawyer
Other than the loss of a loved one, divorce is the most difficult thing you will ever have to go through. Complicated issues can arise in even the most amicable divorce cases, and there are many laws that govern the process. If you are considering divorce, you need legal representation. Our Winter Park divorce lawyer can provide it and ensure your rights are always upheld.
Grounds for Divorce in Winter Park
There are only two grounds for divorce in Florida. The first is no-fault divorce, in which one party must only state that their marriage is irretrievably broken. The vast majority of divorce cases in Winter Park are filed based on no-fault grounds. The other ground for divorce in Florida is when one spouse is mentally incapacitated for at least three years.
Important Issues to Resolve During Divorce
Many legal issues must be resolved in any divorce case. These are as follows:
- A parenting plan must be finalized and parental responsibility must be addressed
- Division of marital assets and liabilities, which is governed by equitable distribution laws
- The amount, type, and duration of alimony paid by one party to the other
- The amount of child support to be paid to the primary caregiver
- Enforcing any premarital or postnuptial agreements
Contested vs. Uncontested Divorce
When couples can agree on all of the above terms, and any other term their divorce may entail, the case is considered uncontested. Uncontested divorces proceed fairly quickly and they also cost much less than contested divorces. When a couple disagrees on even just one term, the case becomes contested. Alternative dispute resolution, such as mediation, or litigation is required to resolve these disputed terms.
Mediation in Winter Park
As throughout the rest of Florida, nearly every divorce case must go through mediation before it enters litigation. During mediation, both parties will meet with a neutral third party mediator. The mediator does not make any final decisions. Their only job is to foster compromise and communication between the two parties so they can reach an agreement.
Mediation is very useful but unfortunately, it does not always work. When one spouse hides assets, or there is a history of domestic violence, mediation is unlikely to be successful. A judge can waive the mediation requirement so the two parties can enter litigation and proceed with their case more quickly.
Our Divorce Lawyer in Winter Park Can Help with Every Part of Your Case
Whether you are thinking about filing for divorce, or your spouse has already served you with papers, our Winter Park divorce lawyer can help. At Anderson & Ferrin, our attorneys are experienced negotiators and will put their expertise to work for you so you obtain the fair settlement you deserve. We will also ensure your rights are always upheld and that you do not lose what is most valuable to you. Call us now at 407-412-7041 or contact us online to schedule a free consultation and to learn more about how we can help.
