The decision to end a marriage is never taken lightly. From understanding your rights to dealing with the court system, it is essential to get professional support, so that you can face your situation confidently.

At The Spence Law Firm, we've walked alongside countless individuals in Orlando, Florida, and throughout Orange County, Osceola County, Lake County, and Seminole County, guiding them through Florida's divorce laws. We believe it's our duty to help our clients navigate this difficult time with clarity and confidence, and we are here for you.

We know the ins and outs of how things like property division, alimony, child custody, and child support work. These are areas that need a sharp legal mind to handle effectively. Our divorce lawyers have a deep understanding of the law, a clear view of marital finances, and the skills to build a strong case that looks out for your best interests.

Trying to handle a divorce on your own can be risky. You could end up with an unfair division of assets, less-than-favorable child custody arrangements, or even make mistakes in paperwork that could slow things down. But with us by your side, those risks are minimized. We make sure your rights are protected throughout the whole process, and we fight for results that help create a stable and happy future for you.

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The Divorce Process

The divorce process in Florida involves several steps, and our goal at The Spence Law Firm is to ease the journey for you as much as possible. Here are the general stages:

The process begins when one spouse (the petitioner) files a Petition for Dissolution of Marriage with the circuit court. The petition must include all relevant information, including the grounds for divorce and any claims for property division, alimony, child custody, and support.

1

Filing the Petition:

After filing, the petitioner must serve the other spouse (the respondent) with the divorce papers, providing them the opportunity to respond.

2

Serving the Petition:

The respondent has 20 days to file an answer to the petition, where they can agree with or dispute the claims made.

3

Responding to the Petition:

Both parties are required to exchange financial disclosures, detailing assets, liabilities, income, and expenses. This is to ensure a fair division of assets and proper determination of alimony and child support.

4

Financial Disclosure:

Before going to trial, spouses are often required to participate in mediation in an attempt to resolve issues amicably.

5

Mediation:

If mediation does not result in an agreement, the case will proceed to trial, where a judge will make the final decisions on all contested issues.

6

Trial:

Once all aspects are resolved, either through mediation or trial, the court will issue a final judgment, legally ending the marriage.

7

Final Judgment:

In some cases, changes in circumstances can necessitate modifications of alimony, child support, or custody. We can assist with filing the necessary motions.

8

Post-Divorce Modifications:

At each step of the process, The Spence Law Firm is dedicated to providing you with the legal support you need to move forward with your life.

Florida is a "no-fault" divorce state, meaning that either spouse can file for a divorce without having to prove any wrongdoing on the part of the other. It's enough to state that the marriage is "irretrievably broken." We're here to explain these terms and guide you on what they mean for your situation.

In Florida, there are different types of divorce proceedings, each with its own set of requirements and procedures. Understanding the nuances of each can better prepare you for what to expect. Here's a brief overview:

In a collaborative divorce, both parties agree to work together to reach a settlement that is fair and equitable. This approach often results in less stress and hostility than traditional divorce proceedings. We’re experienced in facilitating this process and can guide you through it, advocating for your best interests.

An uncontested divorce is where both parties agree on all issues (property division, child custody, alimony, etc.). These are typically quicker and less expensive than a contested divorce. We can help you draft and review all necessary agreements to ensure they meet your needs and those of your family.

A contested divorce occurs when the spouses cannot agree on one or more issues. These cases often require court intervention. Our attorney, Richard Spence, is a seasoned litigator who’s not afraid to fight for you in court. We’ll stand by your side, ensuring you're represented with the tenacity and respect you deserve.

Divorce proceedings can address a multitude of issues that impact the present and future well-being of all involved parties. We approach each with the utmost care.

We understand that your children's well-being is your top priority. We’re committed to helping you establish a child support and custody arrangement that serves their best interests while preserving your parental rights.

Florida law requires an equitable distribution of marital assets and debts. We'll help you understand what this means and work diligently to ensure a fair division. When it comes to alimony, we'll help you navigate the laws and advocate for an arrangement that respects your financial circumstances.

If you or your spouse owns a business, the divorce process can become even more complex. We have experience working with business owners and understand the unique challenges they face in a divorce. With our experience, we’ll help you protect your business interests while also fighting for a fair resolution for both parties.

In rare cases, an annulment may be sought instead of a divorce. This is a legal declaration that the marriage was never valid and essentially erases it from existence. We can help you determine if an annulment is a viable option for your situation.

Divorce Attorneys in Orlando, Florida

At The Spence Law Firm, we don’t just see you as a client; we see you as a person going through a tough time. We’re dedicated to providing compassionate and effective legal representation for individuals undergoing divorce. From the initial consultation to the final decree, we’re here to offer our support and advice. You don’t have to face this alone—we’re here to stand with you.