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Pensacola Family Law Firm
Family Law Attorneys in Pensacola, FL
In Florida, the legal term “Dissolution of Marriage” refers to divorce. As a “no-fault” state, Florida law allows individuals to obtain a divorce without proving cause or “fault.” A court can grant a divorce if one spouse swears under oath that the marriage is “irretrievably broken.”
Our family law attorneys in Pensacola manage two types of divorce cases: Uncontested Dissolution of Marriage and Contested Dissolution of Marriage. An uncontested divorce occurs when both parties agree on all matters related to the divorce, usually leading to a quicker and more cost-effective resolution since all terms have been settled.
In cases where spouses disagree on any divorce terms, a contested divorce is necessary. Often, issues can still be resolved through mediation before reaching trial, with a judge ultimately approving any agreements. If unresolved, the matter will go to trial, where each party presents witness testimony, documents, and other evidence.
It’s vital to seek timely advice from a knowledgeable Florida divorce attorney like Gregory Whibbs to safeguard your legal rights. An experienced divorce lawyer can frequently help settle outstanding issues without needing mediation or a full divorce trial.
Our family law attorneys at Whibbs Stone Barnett Turner, PA are skilled in various divorce-related and family legal issues, including:
Alimony: Also referred to as spousal support or maintenance, alimony is typically paid from one spouse to another when there’s a significant income disparity, a lengthy marriage, or when the lower-earning spouse may struggle to support themselves post-divorce.
Child Custody: In Florida, child custody is termed “allocation of parental responsibility,” promoting active involvement from both parents in the child’s life. When one parent has more parenting time, the other usually receives generous visitation rights unless deemed contrary to the child’s best interests by the court.
Child Support: Similarly, both parents are responsible for supporting their children. Child support amounts are set according to established Florida guidelines, though judges may adjust these amounts based on relevant factors.
Division of Assets: Marital property division must be fair and equitable during divorce proceedings. This requires determining what constitutes marital versus nonmarital property, which can be a contentious issue as spouses may disagree on asset distribution.
Prenuptial and Postnuptial Agreements: A prenuptial agreement outlines asset division before marriage, while a postnuptial agreement achieves the same after marriage.
Domestic Violence: Tragically, domestic violence affects many families; however, some face false accusations. Our family law attorneys possess significant criminal law experience, assisting with restraining orders as well as criminal charges.
Paternity: Our lawyers help mothers establish the paternity of their child’s father or support fathers wishing to assert paternity to engage actively in their child’s life.
Modification: We specialize in modifying divorce agreements, as many overtime those decrees do not meet the needs of growing children, living conditions or educational needs.
Adoption: Welcoming a new family member is a joyous occasion, but adoption processes can be legally complex and fraught with challenges that might delay or halt progress. We assist families with various Florida adoptions.
To protect your legal rights in these or other family law matters, obtaining legal counsel from a qualified attorney familiar with Florida laws is critical.
Complex Divorce Lawyers in Pensacola
Florida operates under “equitable distribution” laws, which require fair rather than equal property distribution between spouses. During divorce proceedings, a court considers numerous factors affecting property distribution, spousal support, and child support. Key factors may include the duration of the marriage, each spouse’s contributions—including child-rearing efforts—the economic circumstances, and the children’s best interests.
Regardless of the complexity of your divorce, the attorneys at Whibbs Stone Barnett Turner are qualified to guide you. We represent clients in divorce cases with varying complexities, including:
High Asset Divorces: Couples with significant and/or unique assets will be in for a more complicated divorce process. There could be issues such as family owned or closely held businesses or other complex assets that are difficult to place a value on, hidden assets that need to be uncovered, and divorce tax consequences.
Military Divorces: We are honored to be located among so many who serve our country nearby at the Pensacola Naval Air Station. Florida has 20 other military bases as well. When a military couple gets a divorce, there are a number of unique issues and procedures that need to be addressed.
Divorces with Special Needs Children: When a divorcing couple has a special needs child, there are special considerations that must be made, specifically around parenting time, medical supplies and equipment needed for the child during visitations, extra healthcare costs, and many others.
Long Distance Relocation of the Children: Relocation out of the area is not uncommon after a divorce, and this can cause a dispute between parents about whether a child should be allowed to move a significant distance from one of them. If you are on either side in this type of situation, you will need a strong advocate in your corner to argue for your interests with the court.
Post-Divorce Modifications and Enforcement: In addition to a potential child relocation, there are many other issues that could arise after a divorce is finalized that could warrant a modification of the original divorce decree. There are other instances when one of the spouses is not fulfilling their obligation, such as failing to pay child support. We are available to help with any post-divorce issues you may have.
Contact a Knowledgeable and Compassionate Pensacola, FL Family Law Attorney
If you are considering divorce or require assistance with any family law legal issues it’s crucial to seek help from a qualified attorney. With your and your children’s futures at stake, experienced legal guidance can help you navigate Florida divorce laws, prepare necessary paperwork, and protect your rights.
At Whibbs Stone Barnett Turner, PA we manage family law cases throughout Pensacola, Florida, and across Escambia, Santa Rosa, and Okaloosa and Walton Counties. Our knowledgeable family attorneys are licensed in all Florida state courts. Our main administrative office is located conveniently just north of Joe Patti’s Seafood in Pensacola Florida, but we have satellite offices in Ft Walton and Fairhope Alabama for convenient legal consultations. Please reach out today to contact one of our attorneys about your divorce or other family law legal concerns. Make Your First Call, Your Best Call.
