Orlando Divorce Lawyer

The legal term for a divorce in the State of Florida is "Dissolution of Marriage."

Florida is one of the many states that has abolished “fault” as a ground for divorce. This law lessens the potential harm to the husband and wife, and their children caused by the process of divorce. All that is required is that the marriage be "irretrievably broken." Either spouse can file for the dissolution of marriage. All that has to be proven is that a marriage exists, one party has been a Florida resident for six months, and the marriage is irretrievably broken. (There is another, lesser used ground for divorce; incompetency of one's spouse). Fault, however, may be considered under certain circumstances in the award of alimony and determination of custody issues.  Each divorce case is unique and therefore, settlements vary. Even though fault is not an issue, the division of property, possessions, and responsibility for support may become contested matters.

The divorce process is highly emotional and traumatic for everyone it touches. Marriage partners often do not know their legal rights and obligations. Court clerks and judges can answer some of your basic questions but are prohibited from giving legal advice. Only your lawyer is allowed to do that. Court procedures must be strictly followed or you may lose certain rights forever. It is recommended that you obtain the services of an Orlando divorce lawyer concerning legal questions, your rights in a divorce, your children's rights, your property rights, your responsibilities resulting from the marriage. A knowledgeable lawyer can analyze your unique situation, and can help you to make decisions in the best interest of you and your family.

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Uncontested Divorce

Znosko & Reas, understands that there are a variety of factors that may lead to a divorce and also understands that even an uncontested divorce, can have unexpected consequences for both parties. There are important steps to take to protect your rights in any divorce, even an uncontested divorce. While an uncontested divorce may seem easier to handle, you still want a marital settlement agreement that protects your rights, especially where children and property are concerned.

If you are going through an uncontested divorce, determine what your rights are before giving them up. It is important to find out exactly what your rights and obligations are and then decide if you want to waive them. You may have rights that you did not even know about.

An uncontested divorce is often a "flat-fee" divorce (where the exact price is set from the beginning of the case). Although an uncontested divorce may appear straightforward, there are a number of documents the court requires, including, but not limited to, a civil cover sheet, parties’ information sheet, filing of social security numbers, and financial affidavits, to name a few. If there are children involved, the parents will be required to attend a court-approved parenting class. Depending on the age of the children and the county in which the Dissolution is being filed, children may be required to attend classes as well.  A Parenting and Timesharing Agreement is also required. 

At Znosko & Reas, we can help gather all of the necessary documentation to initiate a “dissolution of marriage”, providing guidance and assistance to new clients throughout the State of Florida, as well as those clients whom we have previously represented. A free initial consultation and flexible appointment times are available for your convenience. Simply click on the contact link to obtain more information on scheduling your consultation today.