Boca Raton Divorce Lawyer
Our Boca Raton lawyers provide a range of legal services focused on protecting our clients’ interests, including aggressive divorce representation, smart estate planning strategies, and astute guidance in business transactions. Individuals and families generally come to Schwartz | White at pivotal moments in their lives. They’re often worried, angry, distraught, or grieving. They may be facing divorce, fighting with their child’s other parent, fearful of losing hard-earned assets, or dealing with the illness or incapacity of a loved one. Our family attorneys are masters at assuaging anxiety, solving problems, and putting our clients at ease, confident we will communicate and protect their interests.
Modern relationships—whether marriage, co-parenting, parent-child, or business—are full of complexity. We’re here to help guide you through issues and conflict to a more peaceful and certain future. As your Boca Raton divorce lawyer, we set our sights on the best possible outcome in your case and work tirelessly to provide it. When the dust settles, our goal is for you to be satisfied, optimistic, and prepared for whatever life holds in store.
- Child Custody
- Child Support
- Collaborative Divorce
- Complex Divorce
- Contested Divorce
- Divorce Litigation
- Divorce Mediation
- Divorce For Healthcare Professionals
- Family Law
- High Net Worth Divorce
- Post-Judgment Modifications & Enforcements
- Property Division
- Same-Sex Divorce
Boca Raton Divorce Process
When discussing the process of ending a marriage in Boca Raton, Florida, it is paramount to recognize that it follows the Florida state laws. The formal term for divorce is “dissolution of marriage”, and this could either be uncontested, where both parties agree on all aspects, or contested, where disagreements are resolved by a judge.
The dissolution process is initiated with the submission of a petition. This legal document is filed by the petitioner in the county where they or their spouse reside. For Boca Raton residents, the petition is typically lodged at the Palm Beach County Clerk’s office. This document should detail all pertinent information related to the marriage, such as the wedding date, existence of minor children, property, and a proposal of what the petitioner is seeking from their spouse. This could involve child custody, spousal support, or property division.
Upon filing the petition, it must be formally served to the other spouse, known as the respondent. This process should be handled by a sheriff or process server, and after service, the respondent has a 20-day window to file a response.
In scenarios where children are involved, the state law in Florida mandates that both parents participate in a parenting course. Additionally, as Florida adheres to the principle of equitable distribution, all marital assets and debts will be distributed fairly, but not necessarily equally, between the spouses. This division can be agreed upon by the couple, or determined by the court in the event of a disagreement.
Temporary hearings may be held during the proceedings to address matters like child custody, visitation rights, spousal support, and property concerns. If all issues are amicably resolved, a final hearing is scheduled. If not, the case is taken to trial where a judge deliberates on the outstanding issues.
Once all aspects are concluded, the court issues a final judgment of divorce, marking the legal termination of the marriage. It’s highly advisable to engage the services of a knowledgeable family law attorney to navigate through this process due to the complexities that could potentially arise during a divorce. Do bear in mind that the specific process may differ depending on the peculiarities of the case, such as significant assets, minor children, alimony disputes, among others. Seeking legal counsel is always the best approach when navigating a divorce.
Boca Raton residents facing divorce often experience emotional and legal complexities. Whether you’re dealing with contested or uncontested divorce, it’s essential to understand the process, anticipate common issues, and take steps that protect your rights and future. Schwartz | White, a trusted Boca Raton family law firm, provides experienced representation tailored to your unique needs and situation.
Common Issues in Boca Raton Divorce
Divorce can bring up several critical issues, including child custody, property division, alimony, and more. Each of these requires careful consideration, and Florida’s divorce laws will guide how they’re resolved:
- Child Custody and Visitation: In Florida, child custody, or “time-sharing,” prioritizes the child’s best interests. Parents may agree on a parenting plan or leave the decision to the court, which will examine factors like each parent’s involvement, stability, and ability to provide a nurturing environment.
- Property Division: Florida follows equitable distribution, meaning assets and debts are divided fairly, but not always equally. Determining which assets are marital and how to value them can become complex, especially when high-value or shared assets are involved.
- Alimony: Courts may award alimony based on the length of the marriage, each spouse’s financial resources, earning potential, and more. Alimony types in Florida include temporary, bridge-the-gap, rehabilitative, durational, and permanent.
- Child Support: Child support is calculated based on the income of each parent and the needs of the child. Florida courts require fair support arrangements to ensure the child’s welfare.
What to Do During a Divorce
The divorce process is both legally and emotionally challenging, and proactive steps can make a difference:
- Understand Your Finances: Document assets, income, and debts early in the process to establish a clear financial picture.
- Stay Organized: Keep all legal documents organized, from court filings to communication with your attorney and spouse.
- Focus on the Big Picture: Emotional responses are natural, but keeping a long-term perspective helps you make sound decisions that benefit your future.
- Work With an Experienced Divorce Lawyer: A knowledgeable attorney can guide you through the process, protect your interests, and negotiate favorable outcomes.
- Consider Mediation: Mediation can be a constructive way to resolve disputes without the stress and expense of court, often resulting in faster and more amicable resolutions.
The Divorce Court Process in Boca Raton
The divorce court process in Boca Raton follows several key steps:
- Filing for Divorce: One spouse, known as the petitioner, files a petition for dissolution of marriage, which includes grounds for divorce. Florida is a no-fault divorce state, so the petition typically cites “irretrievable breakdown of the marriage.”
- Serving the Spouse: After filing, the petitioner must serve the other spouse, known as the respondent, who then has a certain timeframe to respond.
- Temporary Orders: Either spouse may request temporary orders for issues like child custody, support, or exclusive use of the marital home during the divorce process.
- Discovery: Both parties share information relevant to the case, including finances, assets, and other essential records. Discovery ensures transparency, which helps in fair negotiations and settlements.
- Negotiation and Settlement: Often, spouses can negotiate settlements for property division, alimony, and custody matters. Mediation may be used if negotiations stall, and if successful, the court will approve the agreed-upon terms.
- Trial: If a settlement isn’t reached, the case proceeds to trial, where a judge will make final determinations based on Florida law and evidence presented.
- Final Judgment of Dissolution: The judge issues a final decree officially ending the marriage. This judgment outlines all terms, including child custody, property division, and alimony.
How Schwartz | White Can Help
Schwartz | White brings years of family law experience to Boca Raton residents. Our team offers compassionate guidance, ensuring each step aligns with your best interests. We prioritize clear communication, so you understand your options and what to expect. Whether you’re in the initial stages of divorce or facing complex litigation, Schwartz | White is equipped to protect your rights and secure a favorable outcome.
Our approach is personalized, ensuring your unique concerns are addressed, from asset protection to custody arrangements. With skilled negotiation tactics and trial experience, we are prepared to support you through every stage of the divorce process.
If you’re considering or are already involved in a divorce in Boca Raton, contact Schwartz | White to schedule a consultation. We’ll provide the guidance, support, and expertise you need to move forward with confidence.
Contact An Experienced Boca Raton Divorce Lawyer Today
Schwartz | White has a solid, long-term reputation in the Boca Raton legal community for delivering the highest level of service and optimal results. We do this through confident, high-quality, and (when necessary) aggressive legal representation. Call on us for:
- Advice and guidance through divorce or separation
- Aggressive representation in contested or complex divorce matters
- Effective estate planning and asset protection strategies
- Expertise in negotiating, drafting, or reviewing business transactions
- High-quality representation in civil litigation
We recognize that simply walking through our doors is an act of courage, as often the first step toward change or confrontation is the hardest one. Our services, combined with our depth of experience in family law, estate planning, and business, can support life’s biggest transitions. Regardless of the situation you’re in—if it’s causing you stress or hardship—we believe it’s best for you to fully understand how the law applies to you, how we can help, and then go from there. So, give us a call or contact us online to schedule a confidential consultation with an experienced Boca Raton divorce lawyer who will understand your needs and concerns. Tell your story, learn about your options, and return to your life with peace of mind, knowing you have strong legal support on your side.
Whatever your legal needs, we’re here to help. With decades of experience representing individuals and families from every income bracket, our lawyers can bring calm and clarity during life’s toughest times. Our Boca Raton divorce attorneys serve clients throughout Palm Beach County, contact us today.
