Sarasota Contested Divorce Lawyer
Experienced Representation for Complex Divorce Cases in Florida
A contested divorce becomes inevitable when emotions run high, and couples cannot reach an amicable agreement. Boeller Law, P.A. is here to guide you through these challenging times, providing expert legal counsel and unwavering support as your trusted Sarasota contested divorce lawyer.
Call Boeller Law, P.A. today at (941) 315-8598 or contact us online to schedule a meeting with our contested divorce attorney in Sarasota!
What is a Contested Divorce?
A contested divorce is a legal dissolution of a marriage where spouses cannot agree on critical issues such as property division, alimony, child custody, and child support. In these cases, the courts intervene to resolve the disputes and decide on these matters.
A contested divorce can be complex and emotionally charged, often involving numerous court appearances and legal procedures. However, with our experienced legal team at Boeller Law, P.A., we are committed to helping you navigate the complexities of a contested divorce in Florida.
Contested Divorce Requirements in Florida
Before delving into the intricacies of a contested divorce, it's essential to understand the basic requirements in Florida. To initiate a contested divorce, specific prerequisites must be met:
- Residency Requirement: At least one spouse must be a Florida resident or a member of the military stationed in Florida. Alternatively, one of the spouses should have resided in Florida for at least six months before filing for divorce.
- Grounds for Divorce: Florida is a "no-fault" divorce state, meaning you don't need to provide specific reasons for the divorce. You simply need to assert that the marriage is "irretrievably broken." While fault grounds are not required, the court may consider them in certain situations.
- Filing a Petition: The process begins by filing a "Petition for Dissolution of Marriage" in the appropriate Florida court. This petition outlines the issues to be addressed during the divorce, such as property division, alimony, and child custody.
- Serving Legal Documents: The other spouse must receive the divorce papers once the petition is filed. They will then be able to respond, agreeing or disagreeing with the terms outlined in the petition.
How Long Does a Contested Divorce Take?
The duration of a contested divorce can vary widely, depending on the complexity of the case and the level of conflict between the spouses. While some divorces can be resolved within a few months, others may take significantly longer.
Here are several factors that can influence the timeline of a contested divorce:
- The complexity of the Issues: The more complex the financial and custody issues, the longer the divorce will likely take. Property division, alimony, and child custody arrangements can be particularly contentious in contested divorces.
- Spousal Cooperation: The willingness of both parties to cooperate and reach agreements can significantly impact the duration of the divorce. The process may be prolonged in highly contentious cases as disputes require court intervention.
- Court Docket and Caseload: The availability of court dates and the family court caseload can also affect the timeline of a contested divorce. Some courts may have backlogs, leading to scheduling hearings and trial delays.
- Mediation or Settlement: Parties may opt for mediation or settlement negotiations to resolve disputes outside of court. These methods can expedite the divorce process if successful.
- Trial: The case will proceed if negotiation or mediation cannot reach an agreement. The trial process can add significant time to the divorce proceedings.
It's important to note that there is no one-size-fits-all answer to how long a contested divorce will take. Our Boeller Law, P.A. team is dedicated to working efficiently on your case while protecting your rights and interests. We will keep you informed every step of the way, helping you make informed decisions in your best interest.
Contact Our Sarasota Contested Divorce Attorney Today
At Boeller Law, P.A., we recognize the emotional and legal challenges of a contested divorce in Florida. Our commitment is to provide expert legal representation, guide you through the process, and work tirelessly to protect your rights and secure the best possible outcome for your unique situation.
Contact Boeller Law, P.A. today to schedule a consultation with our contested divorce lawyer in Sarasota!
