Fort Lauderdale Divorce Attorney Serving Families In South Florida
Even if it’s what you want, divorce can be difficult and disorienting. With sound guidance and solid support, however, you can take hold of the knowledge and tools that you need to move forward – including a clear-cut legal pathway.
I am Fort Lauderdale divorce lawyer Mark E. Sawicki, and I am available to provide the personalized counsel that you need along with skilled guidance through each legal phase of the divorce process. I work with clients throughout the Fort Lauderdale and Palm Beach Gardens areas, with two convenient office locations.
Elements Of Divorce And The Way Forward
My clients rely on my help to handle areas of their contested or uncontested divorces, such as:
- Property division, and alimony or spousal support
- Child-related matters, including custody, visitation, relocation and financial support
- Evaluation and application of existing prenuptial or postnuptial agreements
In addition to assisting my clients with these issues, I advise them on ways to protect their interests in areas of life that may have an impact on their divorce outcome.
For example, I alert them about ways to prevent accusations of domestic violence and avoid risk-taking via social media, such as publicly bashing their spouse, as well as precautions to take online if, as newly separated or divorced individuals, they begin taking their children on outings as solo parents and/or dating again.
Contested Vs. Uncontested Divorce
The traditional image of divorce being a hard-fought battle between the spouses over every piece of property, detail of child custody and other matters is not always the way things must go. Uncontested divorce is an option for couples who wish to minimize the cost, expense and mental anguish of divorce and can work together productively to make that happen. It involves settling all necessary issues before filing for divorce. If you are considering an uncontested divorce, I can guide you through the process to ensure your parental and property rights are respected.
Frequently Asked Questions About Divorce In Florida
It’s understandable to have many questions when you’re facing the divorce process. Below, I have provided answers to common questions about divorce in Florida. However, please seek guidance from me on your specific situation. I welcome inquiries from clients of all ages and walks of life who are considering getting a divorce.
How long does it take to get a divorce in Broward County?
Florida law imposes a 20-day waiting period after a divorce filing. This means that, in almost all cases, you must wait at least 20 days before the court can finalize your divorce. However, most cases take significantly longer than 20 days to complete. Depending on the size and value of your marital asset pool, whether you have children and other factors, a contested divorce can last several months and even years in extreme cases. An uncontested divorce tends to take less time, but you should still expect it to last at least six weeks.
What do you need to do to get divorced in Florida?
Do not assume that just because you live in Florida, you can be granted a quick divorce here. There are varying legalities that govern divorce cases in different states, and you may need to undergo a period of marriage therapy or meet other requirements. Depending on who lived where and when, it may be necessary for you to file for divorce in another state.
No matter what your issues or obstacles are, I can help you understand and fulfill what you need to complete to file for divorce in Florida.
Who gets what when assets are divided in a Florida divorce?
Divorce proceedings will help a couple iron out details of how their assets and liabilities will be divided. Alimony (also called spousal support) and child-related issues such as child support may also be part of a Florida divorce. The evaluation and application of any existing pre- and postnuptial agreements may also come into play.
Whether the split is amicable or adversarial, it is advisable for each of the spouses to get the representation of a divorce attorney to ensure that agreements and arrangements are equitable. The importance of experienced legal counsel stands out, especially in high-asset divorce cases involving couples with sizable properties and valuable, complex asset portfolios.
As a Fort Lauderdale divorce attorney with years of business law experience, I am uniquely qualified to assist in contested or uncontested divorce cases that involve family businesses or companies. I can help you devise strategies to preserve or cash out of a business or professional practice that either one or both of you operate.
Who gets the children in a Florida divorce?
A divorce between parents who share minor children will determine the fate of children born to the couple before or during the marriage. Many divorcing parents find this to be the most critical area of controversy. During the divorce proceedings, child custody, visitation rights, child support, and other details regarding the care of the children will be addressed until the couple comes to an acceptable agreement for the care and upbringing of the children by their soon-to-be-divorced parents.
When parents cannot agree on a parenting plan, a trial may be necessary, and a judge will be the one to decide. This path is almost never optimal since judges do not know the inner world of a family. When I represent parents in divorce cases, I work hard to ensure that my clients have as much say as possible in the decision-making that will affect their children’s well-being and their family’s dynamics for years to come.
The Help You Need Is Here – Fort Lauderdale And Palm Beach Gardens Locations
I know you want to fully understand what your rights and options are as you approach your Florida divorce or any family law case. I am here to ensure that you have all the information and insight you need. Call 954-928-9331 to arrange a consultation.
You can also reach me via my website contact form. If possible, include a line or two on the form about what you want to find out so that I can be ready to answer questions pertaining to your unique situation. From my law offices in Fort Lauderdale and Palm Beach Gardens, I have helped countless divorce and family law clients resolve concerns effectively and efficiently.