Florida Divorce Lawyers
File For Divorce in FL
At the Virga Law Firm, our Florida divorce attorneys are ready to assist you with your legal needs. During a dissolution of marriage, we understand the importance of timely action to help our clients reach their goals. Whether your divorce is contested or uncontested, we can quickly build a case for your individual needs.
Choose us for the experience you need. Call (800) 822-5170 or reach out to us online to schedule your consultation with our experienced Florida divorce attorneys today!
On This Page:
- Grounds for Dissolution of Marriage in Florida
- The Florida Divorce Process
- Uncontested Divorce in Florida
- Contested Divorce in Florida
- Annulment vs. Divorce in Florida
- Common Divorce Mistakes
- Contact a Florida Divorce Lawyer Today
- Commonly Asked Questions
For those going through divorce, the reasons are varied. In a legal sense, divorce is also known as dissolution of marriage.
Within the state of Florida, there are only two grounds for marriage dissolution:
- Irreconcilable Differences - This is the most common reason for divorce. Since Florida is a no-fault divorce state, neither party is assigned fault by the court. When the petitioner states that their marriage is "irretrievably broken," this is known as irreconcilable differences. In common terms, this means the couple can no longer coexist amicably.
- Mental Incapacity - The second ground for dissolution occurs when one of the parties is mentally incapacitated. A dissolution of marriage is not allowed unless the party alleged to be mentally incapacitated has been adjudged incapacitated for a period of at least three years.
Even with these grounds, the process can become complicated due to issues like asset division, child custody, and spousal support. Having a knowledgeable attorney can help you navigate these complexities.
Whatever your unique circumstances, our individualized approach will identify the best pathway for effective case resolution. Furthermore, our divorce lawyers will assist with all relevant documentation and prepare you for every aspect of your case.
The first steps in the divorce process in Florida are:
- Pick up a divorce packet from your local court or download divorce forms from the Florida Courts website
- File a Petition for Dissolution and pay the fee (or have it waived, if applicable)
- File an Answer to Petition and Counterpetition
Once you have filed for divorce or responded to a divorce petition, you will either choose an uncontested divorce (without court) or a contested divorce (in court). This depends on whether you and your spouse are able to agree on the terms of your divorce, such as property division, custody, and support.
Florida law also requires both parties to attend a mandatory disclosure exchange. This involves providing detailed information on income, assets, liabilities, and other financial matters to help ensure a fair settlement. Additionally, the parties may be required to attend mediation sessions designed to facilitate an amicable resolution before proceeding to a court hearing.
High Net Worth Divorce in Florida
When a divorce involves high-value assets, the process becomes more complex and requires a careful, methodical approach. It is not uncommon for families in Florida to need strategic guidance from an experienced divorce attorney Florida residents trust when dividing significant investments, business interests, or retirement accounts. Our team at The Virga Law Firm has worked with clients throughout Florida who face these unique challenges in property division, hidden asset concerns, and business valuations, especially in contested cases.
In these cases, we coordinate with financial experts or forensic accountants who understand statutes and precedents relevant to Florida courts. Asset tracing, valuing closely held companies, and accurately characterizing property are often key steps toward resolution. During high net worth divorce cases, we develop a customized strategy to protect investments and ensure that settlements comply with both state law and our clients' long-term needs.
If your divorce is filed in complex jurisdictions like Miami-Dade or Hillsborough County, be prepared for additional disclosures and judicial scrutiny. Each circuit court reviews documentation for real estate, partnership agreements, and prior financial transactions. By working with a local attorney who can navigate the legal landscape, you are better positioned to protect your financial security and strive for equitable outcomes.
Deciding on the right divorce lawyer in Florida is important for navigating the complexities of your case. When selecting an attorney, consider their experience in family law, specifically divorce. A lawyer with extensive experience handling divorces in Florida will understand local laws and proceedings, helping to ensure your case is efficiently managed. Evaluate their communication skills and how well they understand your specific needs. Clear and effective communication is essential for creating a strategy that represents your interests.
Additionally, seek feedback or testimonials from former clients to assess their satisfaction with the lawyer's services. Look for an attorney who can balance professional legal strategies with compassion. Because divorce is emotional, the right attorney should show empathy while focusing on achieving the best possible outcomes. Make sure the attorney is accessible and offers flexible ways to communicate, so you can reach them when needed without delays.
When comparing divorce lawyers in Florida, consider these essential factors:
- Relevant experience: Years practicing family law in Florida and handling a varied caseload.
- Local knowledge: Familiarity with local courts such as those in Orlando and Pensacola, which can affect the process and timing of your divorce attorney Florida search.
- Communication style: Accessibility and willingness to answer questions clearly.
- Client focus: Ability to provide individualized attention and tailored legal strategies.
- Problem-solving: Track record for thoughtfully addressing complex or disputed issues.
- Support resources: Adequate legal staff to respond promptly and efficiently.
- Mediation and negotiation: Ability to resolve conflict and seek fair agreements outside of court, when possible.
When you work with a divorce attorney Florida residents trust, it's also important to assess whether the legal team brings substantial experience and resources tailored to family law. Our firm has over 100 years of combined legal knowledge dedicated to divorce cases throughout the state. This allows us to understand local judges' tendencies and procedural requirements. Clients should ask about attorney availability outside of business hours, particularly for emergencies or urgent filings. In many Florida counties, including Orange and Escambia, having a knowledgeable lawyer can help expedite filings and reduce delays due to complex court dockets or changes in case circumstances. Considering these factors can help you choose representation suited to both your immediate needs and long-term family interests.
In Florida, child custody—often called parental responsibility—requires careful planning. The state puts the child's best interests first, encouraging both parents to stay involved in the child's life unless there are compelling reasons otherwise. Courts consider factors like the emotional bonds between the child and each parent, the child's home, school, and community history, and the moral fitness of the parents. Working with a qualified family law attorney is important for protecting your parental rights while keeping your child's well-being at the forefront.
Parents involved in custody decisions in Florida should pay close attention to the following important aspects:
- Parenting plan requirements: Florida courts require a clear written parenting plan specifying time-sharing, responsibilities, and dispute resolution methods.
- Prioritizing best interests: All recommendations, documentation, and negotiations must put the needs and welfare of the child first.
- School and healthcare records: Judges often ask for proof of strong community and educational ties when assessing proposed custody arrangements.
- Documentation for relocation: Any plan to move a child outside the current school district or county will face increased court scrutiny.
- Work with a qualified divorce lawyer Florida families rely on: Choose legal help with experience in local family courts, such as those in Broward or Duval counties, to effectively present your case.
During custody disputes, you should establish a comprehensive parenting plan detailing visitation schedules, decision-making responsibilities, and solutions for possible disagreements. This plan acts as a framework for co-parenting and helps reduce conflict. Legal support can make sure the agreement is fair and matches Florida's legal requirements. Representation also provides insight into how things like parent relocation or specific child needs might affect custody.
Custody arrangements are also shaped by court procedures in the county where your case is filed, such as in Broward or Duval County. Family court judges in Florida expect clear documentation of the child's school progress, health care needs, and living arrangements to support any parenting plan. Bringing this information to your attorney helps them present a solid case to the judge. If a proposed move changes school districts, the court may require additional justification before approving relocation. Throughout the process, our divorce lawyer Florida team will help you gather and organize the records needed to show your parental preferences are well supported.
Contact The Virga Law Firm at (800) 822-5170 to schedule a consultation today.
Our Core Values
Your Future, Our Commitment
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The Client Comes First and All Else Will Follow
We take pride in delivering best-in-class client service and experience, understanding the privilege and responsibility we have when assisting clients and their families through legal matters. It is our highest obligation.
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Authenticity and Transparency
We believe in being transparent about who we are, with ourselves, each other, and our clients and partners. This authenticity builds trust and fosters strong relationships.
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Relentless Pursuit of the Win
We achieve stellar results by focusing on personal and professional performance and goals. Our relentless pursuit ensures we deliver exceptional outcomes for our clients.
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Growth Mindset
We continuously learn, grow, and improve as individuals, as a law firm, and as advocates for our clients. We set and exceed both personal and professional goals to ensure ongoing development.
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Ownership
We take responsibility for our work and actions, ensuring accountability in all that we do. Our commitment to ownership drives excellence and fosters a culture of trust and reliability.
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Results Driven
We focus on outcomes and disregard the level of effort required. We have the vision and the discipline to do the work and face challenges to make our vision a reality for our clients.
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Respect and Celebration for One Another
We support each other with kindness and respect, emphasizing a positive work culture and celebrating along the way. We respect our clients and support them through their challenges.
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Unquestionable Integrity
We stand up for what’s right with consistently sound ethics and courageous honesty. Our integrity is the foundation of our practice and guides our actions and decisions.
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We are in it Together
We are client and team-focused, committed to the firm’s vision, and act for the greater good. We carry our weight, bring others along, and act with civility, candor, and respect in all interactions.
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Reputation
Reputation is everything. We strive to have the best personal and professional reputations. We want our reputation to precede us and for opposing counsel to know we are committed to fighting for our clients.
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Community Stewardship
We embody the concept of giving back to the community. The Virga Law Firm is committed to supporting and improving the community through responsible and caring actions, setting an example of character.
Meet Your Attorneys
Compassionate Counsel, Relentless Representation.
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Gerard Virga Founding Attorney -
David Lohr Executive Director/Attorney
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Chad Self Fort Walton Beach Managing Attorney
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Taylor Tippel Panama City Beach Managing Attorney
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Christopher Melendez Attorney
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Tamar Solarin Attorney
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Amy Mizels Attorney
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Lisa Lazan Attorney
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Danny Durnbaugh Chief Financial Officer
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Connie Brake Senior Paralegal
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