Six Important Facts About Getting A Fort Lauderdale Divorce
Divorce is a sensitive subject. Much of the information you may have heard is likely inaccurate or only applies in limited situations. Not understanding how state laws impact your case could put your rights in a Fort Lauderdale divorce at risk. Our Fort Lauderdale divorce lawyer explains six basic yet important facts you need to be aware of.
- You do not need fault grounds to file for a divorce in Fort Lauderdale.
‘Fault grounds’ refers to certain types of marital misconduct, such as adultery, addictions, and allegations of abuse. Proof of marital misconduct is not required to obtain a divorce through the Broward County Family Court. However, you should disclose marital misconduct to your divorce lawyer, as it could impact your rights in a divorce settlement.
- A no-fault divorce is your quickest option.
A no-fault divorce is generally the quickest solution for ending your marriage. However, despite the name, the lack of fault grounds is not enough. You and your ex need to agree on all divorce-related terms, including marital property division and the care of any children.
- Disputes are better resolved through negotiation rather than going before the judge.
An inability to agree on important matters may have been a contributing factor in getting a divorce in Fort Lauderdale. However, in terms of getting the best divorce settlement, being able to negotiate important issues is generally preferred, as it allows for more personalized arrangements that better serve your specific interests, rather than having the judge decide.
- All marital property and assets are divided on an equitable, not even, basis.
Under the Florida Statutes, all property and assets you and your spouse earned or acquired during your marriage are subject to equitable distribution. This means that rather than splitting everything evenly, factors such as your income and your contributions to the relationship could influence the overall amount you are entitled to.
Equitable division applies to homes, vehicles, household belongings, and personal items, as well as shares in businesses, money in bank accounts, and retirement benefits.
- You may be entitled to alimony if you make significantly less than your spouse.
Alimony payments can play a significant role in helping rebuild your life after a divorce. You may be entitled to these payments based on how long you were married and whether you make significantly less than your spouse.
- Joint parenting plans are generally recommended in cases involving children.
Children can easily get caught in the crossfire of divorce proceedings. Be aware that the law generally encourages child time-sharing plans that allow both parents to remain active and involved in the child’s life.
To Request A Consultation, Contact Our Fort Lauderdale Divorce Lawyer
Get the trusted legal guidance you need when going through a divorce. Fort Lauderdale divorce lawyer Vanessa L. Prieto provides the caring support and professional legal representation you need throughout the process. To request a consultation, give us a call or contact our office online today.
Sources:
browardclerk.org/Divisions/Family
leg.state.fl.us/statutes/index.cfm?App_mode=Display_Statute&URL=0000-0099/0061/Sections/0061.075.html
