6 Questions To Ask Your Attorney
One of the most important things you can do when divorcing is to be prepared and know what to expect. Your family law lawyer in Tampa, FL can help you prepare for what happens when your marriage ends.
Make sure you discuss your situation openly and honestly with your attorney. They can only provide the best representation if they understand where you are and prepare you for what’s to come. It’s also important to ask questions and learn as much as possible about the process ahead of you.
What are some of the most important questions to ask your family law lawyer in Tampa, FL?
1. What’s the Florida Divorce Process?
In Florida, the process for getting a divorce is fairly simple.
The first step is to file a divorce petition. The court then serves the non-filing spouse with a copy of the petition and a summons.
Next, the hearing is scheduled and both spouses provide the court with their testimony. The court decides whether to grant the divorce and issues a divorce decree, which outlines the terms of the divorce, including custody of any children, division of property, and support arrangements.
Keep in mind that the process also includes negotiations between spouses and their attorneys before the court makes its final decree. In some cases, if divorcing spouses cannot agree, the court determines issues such as custody and division of property.
2. How Long Does Divorce Usually Take?
The divorce process in Florida usually takes a few months from start to finish if spouses agree on the issues.
However, if there are contested issues, such as custody of children or division of property, the process may take longer. Additionally, if the parties cannot agree on a settlement, the case may go to trial, which could extend the process even further.
3. How Much Does Divorce Cost?
The cost of a divorce in Florida varies depending on the circumstances of the case. If spouses can reach an agreement on all issues, the cost will be less than if the case goes to trial.
Additionally, the cost of a divorce depends on whether you use a family law lawyer in Tampa, FL or if you represent yourself. Generally, attorneys will charge by the hour, with a retainer fee upfront. If you choose to represent yourself, you will still be responsible for filing fees and other court costs.
4. How Is Property Divided in Divorce?
In Florida, property is divided equitably in a divorce. This means that the court attempts to divide properly fairly and equitably, taking into consideration the contributions of each spouse to the marriage.
Additionally, the court will consider the needs of each spouse and any minor children when dividing property.
5. How Is Child Custody and Visitation Handled?
In Florida, child custody and visitation are typically handled through a parenting plan. A parenting plan is a document that outlines the custody arrangement and visitation schedule for the children. The parenting plan will be approved by the court and will become part of the divorce decree.
If parents are unable to agree on a parenting plan, the court determines custody issues based on the best interests of the child. The court will consider factors such as the child’s age, health, and relationship with each parent when making a custody determination.
6. What about Child Support Payments?
In Florida, child support is calculated using a formula known as the Child Support Guidelines. The guidelines take into consideration the income of both parents, the number of children, and the cost of childcare and health insurance. The court will order one parent to pay child support to the other parent based on these guidelines.
Child support payments are typically made monthly and are paid until the child reaches the age of 18.
Contact a Family Law Lawyer in Tampa, FL to Schedule a Consultation
If you’ve decided to file for divorce or your spouse has done so, we can help. To learn more or to schedule a consultation with an experienced family law lawyer in Tampa FL, contact Geller Family Law at (813) 405-1509.
