A divorce is a complex process and the outcome of a divorce can have long-term impacts on both spouses and children. In Florida, there are many factors that must be taken into consideration when determining property division, alimony, child custody, and other family law issues. An experienced Divorce Lawyers in Palm Beach County can help you navigate these complex issues and ensure that your rights are protected throughout the process.
During a divorce, the spouses must divide their marital and non-marital assets. This can involve complicated asset valuations, ownership questions, and tax ramifications. An experienced Divorce Lawyers in West Palm Beach can help you understand your options and determine a fair distribution of assets.
An attorney can also help you understand your rights and responsibilities when it comes to child custody. In a typical case, the court will decide between shared custody or sole custody of the children. Shared custody is often best for the children because it gives them equal access to both parents. If the parties cannot agree on a parenting plan, the court will consider various factors, including the child’s well-being and each parent’s abilities. The court may appoint a guardian ad litem or conduct evaluations to help make the decision.
Connie Pena is an experienced attorney that can assist you with a wide range of family law matters. Her firm serves clients in and around the Lake Worth area, including West Palm Beach. She can help you obtain a divorce, establish paternity, and handle other legal issues related to child custody, property division, and alimony. Pena is a member of the Broward County Hispanic Bar Association and the Florida Bar Family Law Section.
In a divorce, the spouses must file a petition for dissolution of marriage in the county where they last lived together or where one spouse currently resides. This initiates the divorce process and allows the other spouse 20 days to respond to the petition. The respondent may admit or deny the allegations in the petition or raise counterclaims and requests for relief. The respondent must also submit financial documents and, if applicable, a completed child support guidelines worksheet.
A contested divorce can take longer because it’s up to the judge to resolve the unresolved issues. If the spouses are unable to reach an agreement, a trial will be held. The judge will hear evidence and arguments from both sides before making a final judgment that ends the marriage. This final judgment will address all issues agreed upon by the parties or decided by the court, including property division, alimony, and child custody.
An experienced attorney can provide assistance with post-judgment issues such as enforcement and modification of support or custody arrangements. A lawyer can also help you update beneficiary designations, transfer property titles, and change the name on a mortgage. They can also advise you on domestic violence issues and other concerns. An experienced Divorce Lawyers in the West Palm Beach area can assess your situation, recommend a course of action, and assist you with filing the necessary paperwork. Contact Davis & Associates today to schedule a free family law attorney consultation.