MIAMI DIVORCE ATTORNEY PROVIDES AGGRESSIVE REPRESENTATION WHEN YOU ARE FACING DIVORCE

Guiding you through the divorce process

Divorce can be an emotional and overwhelming process. The end of a marriage often overlaps negotiations for child custody, child support and division of marital assets. The right divorce lawyer can help relieve the stress of this difficult time and protect your future. The Law Offices of Lawrence S. Katz, P.A. represents clients in Miami and throughout South Florida in separation or divorce proceedings with compassion and attentive service. With 50 years’ experience, we provide effective, strategic representation in difficult cases.

What is dissolution of marriage?

In Florida, divorce is referred to as dissolution of marriage. The bonds of matrimony are dissolved and, if necessary, a judge decides how to divide marital property, time with the children and other issues, including:

Is Florida a no-fault state?

Florida is a no-fault state, which means that it is not necessary to prove that either party is at fault for the marriage ending. Nonetheless, fault may be relevant to issues such as child custody, alimony and dividing assets. For this reason, depending on your circumstances, it may be advisable to prove that the other spouse was at fault, which we will determine as part of developing a strategy.

What is a contested divorce?

A divorce is considered contested if some issues are in dispute, such as child custody, child support, equitable property division or spousal support. Couples often find it difficult to talk to each other, much less agree on anything. Many couples without children still end up in a contested divorce because they are unable to reach an agreement regarding the division of marital and non-marital assets and debts.

Contested divorces move through Florida’s divorce process in an adversarial manner. The party who files a divorce petition first is known as petitioner. He or she must allege in the petition that the marriage is irretrievably broken or that the other spouse is mentally incapacitated.

Often, courts order parties to mediate their cases before the final hearing. Successful mediations can save both parties significant time and money. Mr. Katz has extensive training and experience in the process.

What is an uncontested divorce?

An uncontested divorce is one in which both spouses agree on every material issue. Uncontested divorces are generally easier, faster and less expensive than contested divorces. Despite the advantages, a divorce agreement should not be taken lightly. These decisions can have a lasting effect on you and your children. In particular, if minor children are involved, the parents must agree to the terms of a parenting plan and child support.

After the parties sign a settlement agreement addressing all material issues, there still must be a final hearing before the judge. Unlike a contested divorce, this final hearing is usually very brief, and only the petitioner must attend unless the respondent is seeking a name change.

Call a Florida divorce lawyer for guidance in your divorce

Our experienced family law firm can help you understand the divorce process and guide you through each step in a timely and cost-effective manner. We take a firm stand to protect your rights and work to achieve the best possible resolution for you and your family. If you are seeking a divorce or have been served with divorce papers, contact The Law Offices of Lawrence S. Katz, P.A. today at 786-991-2629 or online to schedule a consultation. Se habla español.