DIVORCE

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Florida follows the principle of equitable distribution, which means marital assets and liabilities are divided fairly—not necessarily equally—upon dissolution of marriage. The court begins with the presumption that an equal division is appropriate, but may deviate based on statutory factors such as each spouse’s contributions to the marriage, the economic circumstances of the parties, the duration of the marriage, and any intentional dissipation, waste, or concealment of marital assets. Equitable distribution requires a careful analysis of what constitutes marital versus nonmarital property and a strategic presentation of financial evidence to ensure the outcome is balanced, defensible, and aligned with long-term financial stability.

Alimony in Florida is a statute-driven financial support mechanism designed to address a legitimate need by one spouse and the corresponding ability to pay by the other, with the overarching goal of promoting fairness and financial independence. Courts evaluate the length of the marriage, the standard of living established during the marriage, each party’s earning capacity, and their respective contributions—both economic and non-economic—before determining the appropriate type, amount, and duration of alimony. Florida’s modern alimony framework emphasizes predictability and defined timeframes, ensuring support is structured, purposeful, and aligned with long-term financial sustainability rather than indefinite dependency.

In Florida, child custody is determined through the concepts of timesharing and parental responsibility, with the child’s best interests serving as the court’s primary focus. The law favors shared parental responsibility whenever possible, encouraging both parents to remain actively involved in major decisions affecting the child’s education, healthcare, and overall welfare. Timesharing schedules are established through a court-approved parenting plan that promotes stability, consistency, and meaningful relationships with both parents, while allowing flexibility to accommodate the child’s needs and family dynamics. Courts may deviate from shared arrangements when necessary to protect the child, but the overarching objective remains to foster a balanced, supportive environment that prioritizes the child’s long-term well-being.

Child support in Florida is calculated using statutory guidelines designed to ensure that a child’s financial needs are met in a fair and consistent manner by both parents. The guideline calculation considers each parent’s income, the number of overnights exercised by each parent, health insurance costs, childcare expenses, and other relevant financial factors. While the formula provides a presumptive support amount, accurate financial disclosure and proper application of the guidelines are critical, as even minor errors can have long-term financial consequences. The overarching goal of child support is to maintain stability for the child and ensure that both parents share responsibility for the child’s upbringing in a manner aligned with Florida law.

Relocation in Florida involves strict statutory requirements when a parent seeks to move with a minor child a significant distance from the other parent, as such moves can substantially impact timesharing and parental responsibility. Florida law requires either written consent from the non-relocating parent or court approval, and the requesting parent bears the burden of demonstrating that the relocation is in the child’s best interests. Courts closely evaluate factors such as the reason for the move, the impact on the child’s relationship with the non-relocating parent, and the feasibility of preserving meaningful timesharing. Relocation cases demand careful planning and strategic presentation, as noncompliance with the statute can result in court-ordered return of the child and significant legal consequences.

When a business is created or operated during the marriage, it is often classified as a marital asset subject to equitable distribution, even if only one spouse is listed as the owner. Splitting a marital business requires a detailed analysis of valuation, income, goodwill, and each spouse’s contributions to the business, whether financial, managerial, or supportive. Florida courts may award the business to one spouse with an offsetting distribution of other assets, order a structured buyout, or, in limited circumstances, require the sale of the business. Because business interests are often intertwined with income, alimony, and child support, a strategic and comprehensive approach is essential to protect long-term financial stability and avoid disruption to ongoing operations.