Divorce Lawyers in Vero Beach, FL Representing Clients in All Matters Related to Divorce Proceedings
Most individuals never imagine that they may one day require the services of a divorce lawyer. However, many couples eventually conclude that the only way to resolve their differences is to end their marriage to one another. The legal process involved in a divorce can quickly become contentious and requires the divorce lawyer to have a high level of skill and compassion as they handle all of the legal matters involved.
The divorce lawyers at Grall Law Group have the experience necessary to handle all of the issues that pertain to your divorce in a kind and sympathetic manner. We also recognize that this is an emotionally overwhelming time in your life, and we are dedicated to assisting you with whatever legal needs may arise.
Contact our family law office and ask to schedule an initial consultation with one of our divorce lawyers, who can answer your questions and advise you of the next steps you must take to proceed with your case.
What Is Considered To Be Marital Property In Florida?
In accordance with Florida family law, only marital property is subject to property division in a divorce action. Marital property also includes any assets or debts the couple may have amassed during their marriage. In Florida, marital property includes:
- Funds in bank accounts
- Real estate
- Businesses
- Vehicles
- Investments and retirement accounts
- Artwork and antiques
It should also be noted that separate property, such as debts or assets one spouse owned prior to the marriage, is not divided in a divorce. In addition, money that was inherited by one spouse during the time of the marriage is also considered to be separate property.
How Long Does A Couple Need To Be Separated Before They Can File For A Divorce?
Unlike many other states, Florida does not have a minimum waiting period that a couple must complete before filing for a divorce. Florida has a residency requirement that states that at least one of the spouses must live in Florida for at least six months before they can legally file for a divorce.
Florida divorce laws can be confusing and require the experience of a knowledgeable divorce lawyer who can explain the various family laws and assist you with filing the necessary legal paper to begin legal proceedings.
Does Florida Have Permanent Alimony?
Permanent alimony is usually only granted in cases where a couple divorces and has been married for at least 17 years. There is a legal presumption that one party may pay permanent alimony after 17 years of marriage, however, being married for a specific period of time is one of many determining factors when a court considers whether or not it should award one spouse permanent alimony.
Some other factors the court will also consider include:
- Whether or not there is a financial need for alimony
- The other spouse’s financial ability to pay alimony
- The needs and necessity of permanent alimony based on the standard of living enjoyed during the marriage
- Employability and work history
In addition, the court may also take into account whether one spouse put aside their professional goals to raise children and took on the role of a homemaker during the course of the marriage. Finally, our divorce attorneys can review your case and circumstances and determine if it is appropriate to ask for permanent alimony in your divorce settlement.
How Long Does It Take To Obtain A Divorce In Florida?
Unfortunately, there is no way to definitively state how long it will take to obtain a divorce in Florida. The length of time can vary due to a wide range of circumstances that include child custody and child support disputes, issues about the division of marital property, and alimony payments, just to name a few.
A simplified divorce may take approximately 30 days to be finalized. In contrast, an uncontested divorce may average anywhere from four to six weeks to be resolved. In cases where the divorce process is contested, it may take up to six months or even several years to be finalized, depending on the issues that must be worked through.
Divorce Attorney Vero Beach
If you are looking for a family law lawyer, you need to contact Grall Law Group and ask to schedule a consultation with a member of our legal team. We are glad to sit down and answer any questions you may have and explain your legal options.