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Divorce Lawyers in Orlando, Florida

Compassionate and Experienced Attorneys for Your Divorce in Orlando, FL

Divorce can be an emotional and complicated process during which you will have to make many decisions. Understanding all of the ramifications of those decisions is vital as they can have long-term consequences. You will need a trusted advocate who can give you the guidance you need while helping you navigate the many phases of the process.

divorce lawyer in Orlando

At The Law Office of Paulette Hamilton, P.A., our divorce lawyers in Orlando, Florida have been a proven resource for divorce representation since 2011. When you need practical counsel and rigorous protection of your best interests, you can turn to us – whether they involve:

  • Financial Matters
  • Children
  • Marital Property
  • Any other divorce issues

Filing for divorce in Orlando? Contact the divorce lawyers in Orlando, Florida, at The Law Office of Paulette Hamilton, P.A. to discuss your case today. You can reach us online or by calling our firm at (407) 624-5344 now!

"Absolutely the best lawyer. And great staff too. Very intelligent and experienced. Explained my options and made a difficult divorce easier. I appreciate their hard work and highly recommend them to you." 
- Brenda R.

Common Issues in Florida Divorce Cases

In any divorce, certain issues will need to be addressed and settled between you and your spouse before the divorce can be finalized.

These issues may include:

Contested vs Uncontested Divorce in Orlando, Florida

Uncontested Divorce:

  • If you and your spouse have come to an agreement concerning these issues, the process can proceed much more quickly and cost-effectively as an uncontested divorce.

Contested Divorce:

  • If you and your spouse cannot agree on divorce issues, however, the divorce becomes contested. Your issues may be able to be resolved through further negotiation or through the collaborative law process. Should these methods fail, we can resort to litigation.

What Are Grounds for Divorce in Florida?

As a no-fault divorce state, Florida does not require that either spouse prove marital misconduct as “grounds” for the dissolution of the marriage.

  1. Either spouse can file a petition for divorce due to “irreconcilable differences."
  2. The couple can claim that these differences have broken the marriage to the point where there is no hope for restoration. This is considered a “no-fault” divorce because it does not require either spouse to blame the other spouse with a particular fault to justify the divorce.
  3. Another reason that spouses can use in Florida to file for divorce is mental illness. However, these divorces are rare as a no-fault divorce is a much simpler and faster route to take.

Understanding Equitable Distribution in Florida

Equitable distribution is the process of dividing marital assets and liabilities fairly and reasonably in a divorce. In Florida, the courts follow the principle of equitable distribution, which does not necessarily mean a 50/50 split, but rather a division that is deemed fair and just based on the specific circumstances of the marriage.

Some important points to understand about equitable distribution in Florida include:

  • Marital vs. Non-Marital Assets: Only marital assets and debts are subject to equitable distribution, while non-marital assets (acquired before the marriage or through inheritance or gift) are typically not included in the division.
  • Factors Considered: The court considers various factors when determining equitable distribution, including the length of the marriage, each spouse's financial contributions, the economic circumstances of each spouse, and any other relevant factors.
  • Complex Assets: High-value assets, business interests, investments, and retirement accounts can complicate the equitable distribution process, requiring skilled legal representation to ensure a fair division.

At The Law Office of Paulette Hamilton, P.A., our experienced divorce attorneys can provide guidance and advocacy to help you navigate the equitable distribution process and protect your financial interests during divorce proceedings.

Florida Divorce FAQs

Navigating the complexities of divorce can be overwhelming, but having a knowledgeable attorney on your side can make all the difference. Attorney Hamilton is here to help you through this difficult time by answering some frequently asked questions about divorce in Florida.

What are the Residency Requirements for Divorce in Florida?

Like most states, Florida has a residency requirement for a couple to be able to file for divorce in a Florida court’s jurisdiction. At least one of the spouses must be a state resident for six months or more before the couple can file for divorce in Florida.

Is There a Waiting Period for Divorce in Florida?

Yes, there is a 20-day waiting period between when the divorce petition is filed and when the judge can finalize the divorce decree. The purpose of the waiting period is to allow the couple time to cool down and ensure a divorce is what they want. Of course, divorces often take much longer than 20 days, but that is the minimum time a divorce can take.

Can I Receive Alimony in Florida, or will I Have to Provide Spousal Support to My Ex?

Florida's divorce law considers numerous factors when determining spousal support, such as entitlement, type of support, and the amount awarded. It's essential to consult an experienced family lawyer to discuss your specific circumstances regarding spousal support.

How is Child Support Calculated in Florida?

Child support in Florida follows state guidelines, but the court ultimately decides the amount on a case-by-case basis. Factors considered include the monthly net income of both parents, the number of children, parenting time, insurance costs, and the child(ren)'s standard needs. Child support orders are often designed to change if a parent's income changes.

How Long Does It Take to Get a Divorce in Florida?

The length of a divorce in Florida depends on the type of divorce and the couple's agreement on terms. A simplified divorce requires a 20-day waiting period after signing a petition, while an uncontested divorce can take four to five weeks or even a few months. Contested divorces, where couples disagree on issues, can take anywhere from four months to over a year.

What is Equitable Distribution?

Equitable distribution refers to the fair division of marital assets and liabilities during a divorce. While "equitable" generally means "equal," there are instances when one party may receive a larger share if deemed fair. This process results in each party having a post-divorce estate of similar value, rather than joint ownership of assets.

How Should I Prepare for My Divorce?

To prepare for a Florida divorce, gather documentation about your assets, liabilities, and income. This includes bank statements, tax returns, retirement accounts, real estate documents, and any other relevant financial information. It's also important to create a list of marital assets and debts and any separate property acquired before the marriage or through inheritance. Next, consider hiring an experienced divorce attorney to protect your rights and interests. An attorney can help you navigate the complexities of Florida divorce law and ensure a more favorable outcome.

When Should I Consult With a Divorce Attorney?

It's especially important to consult with a divorce attorney if your situation involves children, real estate, a significant disparity in income, substantial assets, disability or health issues, considerable debt, or a marriage that lasted more than a few years. In these cases, the guidance of a skilled attorney can be invaluable in protecting your rights and assets.

Can I File for Divorce in Florida If I Recently Moved Out of State?

Yes, you can still file for divorce in Florida even if you recently left the state, provided that certain residency requirements are met. If one spouse has been a resident of Florida for at least six months prior to filing the petition and maintains their legal residence in the state, they can proceed with the divorce process in the appropriate county court. However, it is important to note that jurisdictional issues may arise depending on the specifics of your situation. It is advisable to consult with an attorney experienced in Florida family law to ensure all necessary steps are properly followed, and your interests are protected throughout the process.

How Does Florida Handle Custody and Parenting Plans During a Divorce?

In Florida, child custody is referred to as "time-sharing," and it's determined based on the best interests of the child(ren). The court considers factors such as each parent's ability to care for the child, the child's preferences (if they are of suitable age), and the stability of each parent's home environment. During a divorce, parents are encouraged to create a parenting plan that outlines how they will share time and responsibilities with their child(ren). This plan should include details about education, healthcare, extracurricular activities, and visitation schedules. If the parents cannot agree on a plan, the court will create one for them, keeping the child(ren)'s best interests in mind.

Contact Our Skillful Divorce Lawyers in Orlando Today

Making decisions while under the stress of a breakup can be overwhelming. That is why we highly recommend that you seek the caring and sound legal counsel of our Orlando divorce attorneys at The Law Office of Paulette Hamilton, P.A..

We are here to listen, advise, and educate you and to be upfront about the likelihood of success in pursuing various strategies. Whether your case is simple or extremely complex, we will be with you every step of the way providing the support you need.

Contact us online or call (407) 624-5344 to get started today. Our Orlando divorce attorneys are prepared to help you through this complex process.

Our Clients Are an Extension of Our Family

Read the Opinions That Matter Most
    "The staff at the Law Firm of Attorney Hamilton were absolutely phenomenal."
    As you know looking for an attorney and sitting down with one sometimes can be very uncomfortable, and for the very first time, it could be very overwhelming. I can honestly say that the staff that works at the Law Firm of Attorney Hamilton were absolutely phenomenal. They were very attentive to my needs they were very warm and welcoming. And the overall knowledge and support that I received from Attorney Hamilton have made me a client for life.
    - Jai B.
    "Made a difficult divorce easier."
    Absolutely the best lawyer. And great staff too. Very intelligent and experienced. Explained my options and made a difficult divorce easier. I appreciate their hard work and highly recommend them to you.
    - Brenda R.
    "The true concern that Ms. Paulette and Ms. Susan express is phenomenal."
    Ms. Paulette and her staff by far is the best law team anyone can hire. I am from Hawaii and my ex-wife is in Orlando. After over a year of trying to settle the divorce like grown adults, I was forced to hire a lawyer that I can trust. A team that was willing to work with me despite the distance and time difference. I must admit within a couple of minutes of talking to Ms. Paulette I decided she would be the lawyer with integrity and concern and is willing to help me in the circumstances. My divorce was not as easy as we both would have hoped for it to be but her outstanding representation made it so that I didn't have to fly to Florida for any mediation or hearings. The true concern that she and Ms. Susan express is phenomenal. I am thankful to have found her and you are probably reading this review in search of a great lawyer. Her team's services are well worth every penny. I am a retired disabled veteran in a same-sex marriage who lived across the country and the ocean and yet that didn't hinder Ms. Paulette or Ms. Susan to work on my case diligently as well as keeping me posted on the latest news on my divorce with my evasive wife. Don't let your current circumstances, your past lawyer's incompetence and the difficulty of your divorce discourage you from attaining the freedom from a terrible marriage. You have every single right to be represented by a great team, civilian, military straight or same-sex marriage alike. Take a hold of your situation as I did and at least do a consultation with this law office. Ms. Paulette and Ms. Susan strive for fairness and will give you the honest advice you need to rid yourself of the deadweight marriage. I am forever thankful to have come across the google reviews of this law office before me and convinced me enough to be represented by them. Thank you so much for your commitment and dedication to resolving this atrocious marriage. I hope this review finds someone who is at their wit's end and is in the same position as I once was. Good luck and thank you so much again.
    - Keicelyn P.
    "They’re a very professional firm & worked endlessly for the best outcome."
    Ms. Hamilton has done a great job for me and advocating for me when I felt otherwise unheard. She and her team took their time with me and in answering any questions throughout this process. They’re a very professional firm & worked endlessly for the best outcome. This has been a difficult time but Ms. Hamilton and her staff helped immensely. Thank you, definitely recommend!
    - Andatrius B.
    "They made my legal process very easy."
    Couldn't have asked for a better attorney, very professional and friendly, staff were very helpful and nice. They made my legal process very easy, I would recommend to anyone.
    - Kristina C.
    "I would strongly recommend all my friends to your service!"
    It was great to work a professional law firm, with integrity and commitment. You guys did a great job on my case and I would strongly recommend all my friends to your service!
    - Jahnathan E.
    "Strong and persistent litigation team"
    I would recommend Paulette, Angela and her team to anyone in need of a strong and persistent litigation team.
    - Sonatha S.
    "Paulette Hamilton Law Office has done a wonderful job on my case"
    Paulette Hamilton Law Office has done a wonderful job on my case, it was very professional and I would strongly recommend this law firm to anybody who's looking for the best representation
    - Paul Evens P.

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