Articles Posted in Family Law

Introduction Divorce can be a complex and emotionally taxing process, but Florida law provides an easier and faster option for certain couples through a simplified dissolution of marriage. This streamlined procedure allows spouses to end their marriage without extensive litigation, provided they meet specific eligibility requirements. This guide explains the simplified dissolution of marriage process in Florida, including eligibility…

Introduction In Florida family law cases, both parties are required to disclose their financial information to ensure fair and equitable decisions regarding child support, alimony, and property division. Florida Family Law Rule of Procedure 12.285mandates these mandatory financial disclosures, which provide transparency in divorce, paternity, and other financial-related family law matters. Failing to comply with Rule 12.285 can lead to sanctions, court-imposed…

Introduction When a parent wants to move with their child after a divorce or custody ruling, they must comply with Florida’s parental relocation laws. Moving a significant distance can impact time-sharing arrangements, parental rights, and the child’s well-being. To prevent one parent from unilaterally relocating a child without the other parent’s consent, Florida law provides clear…

Introduction The hearsay rule is a fundamental principle in Florida law that restricts the use of secondhand statements as evidence in court. In family law cases, hearsay issues frequently arise in matters involving child custody, domestic violence, and child abuse allegations. While hearsay is generally inadmissible, there are several exceptions that allow certain out-of-court statements to be used in…

Introduction Child support ensures that both parents contribute to the financial needs of their child after a separation or divorce. In Florida, child support is calculated using a formula based on the Florida Child Support Guidelines, which take into account each parent’s income, time-sharing arrangement, and other relevant factors. Courts use this standardized approach to ensure…

Introduction Alimony, also known as spousal support, is financial assistance that one spouse may be required to pay to the other after a divorce. In Florida, alimony is awarded based on a variety of factors, including the length of the marriage, the financial needs of one spouse, and the other spouse’s ability to pay. Florida…

Introduction A parenting plan is a legally binding document that establishes how divorced or separated parents will share custody, time-sharing, and parental responsibilities. While Florida courts encourage cooperation between parents, disputes often arise when one parent fails to comply with the agreed-upon parenting plan. When a parent refuses to follow the plan, the other parent…

Introduction Parental responsibility refers to the legal authority and duty of parents to make important decisions regarding their child’s upbringing. In Florida, courts presume that shared parental responsibility is in the child’s best interests, ensuring that both parents remain involved in decision-making. However, in some cases, the court may award sole parental responsibility or shared parental responsibility with ultimate decision-making…

Introduction In Florida family law, when parents cannot agree on a parenting plan, the court may order a social investigation to assess pertinent details about the child and each parent. This process aims to provide the court with comprehensive information to determine arrangements that serve the child’s best interests. The procedures and guidelines for social investigations are outlined in Florida…

Introduction When parents live in different states and custody disputes arise, determining which state has jurisdiction can be complicated. To address these conflicts, Florida follows the Uniform Child Custody Jurisdiction and Enforcement Act (UCCJEA), a law designed to establish clear rules for which state has the authority to decide custody matters and how custody orders are…