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We understand that family matters are deeply personal and often emotionally charged. Whether you're facing divorce, child custody disputes, paternity issues, or the complexities of adoption, our firm provides compassionate, strategic, and experienced legal support tailored to your unique situation.
Led by attorney Rachael Crag-Chaderton, our team takes the time to listen to your concerns and craft personalized solutions that protect your rights and prioritize your family's well-being. We are committed to resolving disputes efficiently and with dignity—inside and outside the courtroom.
Our Orlando-based family law services include:
Divorce and Legal Separation
Child Custody and Visitation
Child and Spousal Support
Paternity and Parental Rights
Domestic Violence Injunctions
Step-parent and Private Adoptions
Prenuptial and Postnuptial Agreements
Our Practice
Family law matters are among the most personal and impactful legal challenges you may face.
At Crag Chaderton Law Firm, we understand that these cases are not just about legal outcomes; they are about protecting your future, your financial stability, and most importantly, your family's well-being. Serving Central, Florida, and the surrounding communities, we offer comprehensive and strategic legal representation across all levels of family law.
Tailored Strategies for Every Family
We believe that every family is unique, and so is every legal solution. Our strategies are designed to be both empathetic and effective, ensuring that your specific needs and goals are at the forefront.
We take the time to deeply understand your situation, concerns, and desired outcomes. We provide clear, straightforward explanations of Florida family law, outlining your rights, obligations, and the potential paths forward. This open communication ensures you are empowered to make informed decisions at every stage.
Our Proven Approach:
Client-Centered Consultation
We begin every case by listening. Understanding your goals, family dynamics, and concerns allows us to build a personalized strategy that aligns with your values and legal needs.
Clear Communication
We prioritize transparency from day one. We keep you informed of your legal options, potential outcomes, and next steps so you feel empowered—not overwhelmed.
Comprehensive Case Analysis
Our team performs a thorough review of all relevant documents, financials, and evidence to identify strengths, weaknesses, and opportunities in your case.
Strategic Negotiation
When possible, we aim to resolve family disputes through thoughtful negotiation and mediation—minimizing stress, protecting privacy, and reducing costs.
Courtroom Readiness
If litigation becomes necessary, we are fully prepared to represent you aggressively in court. We build strong legal arguments and present your case with clarity and conviction.
Focus on Long-Term Stability
We look beyond short-term wins. Whether resolving custody arrangements or dividing assets, we aim for outcomes that promote long-term peace, stability, and fairness.
Ongoing Support
Family law issues often evolve over time. Our firm remains available for post-judgment modifications, enforcement actions, or continued guidance as your circumstances change.
Crag Chaderton Law Firm, we are committed to being your dedicated legal partner, providing the clarity, support, and strategic representation you need to navigate any family law challenge. Contact us today to discuss your situation confidentially.
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Whether you're facing divorce, custody disputes, or other family law challenges, Crag Chaderton Law offers the strategic, compassionate support you need to move forward with confidence.
Florida And Family Laws
Family law in Florida governs a wide range of legal matters involving marriage, children, and domestic relationships. It is a deeply personal area of law that often intersects with some of life’s most emotional and challenging experiences. From divorce and child custody to paternity and adoption, Florida’s family law system is designed to provide structure, resolution, and protection for individuals and families in times of transition.
Florida is a "no-fault" divorce state, meaning that neither party is required to prove wrongdoing to end a marriage. The only legal grounds necessary are that the marriage is irretrievably broken or one party has been mentally incapacitated for a significant period. Once divorce proceedings begin, the court will address critical issues such as the division of marital property, alimony, child support, and parenting arrangements. Each of these elements must be resolved fairly before a final judgment is entered.
"Divorce is not the end of your story — it’s the beginning of a new chapter."
When it comes to children, Florida law prioritizes the best interests of the child in determining parental responsibility and time-sharing. The courts encourage both parents to remain actively involved in their child’s life, unless doing so would be harmful. Parenting plans are required to outline how major decisions will be made and how time will be shared between parents. Child support is calculated using state guidelines that consider income, parenting time, and the needs of the child.
Family law in Florida also covers paternity cases, legal guardianship, domestic violence protection, and adoption. Establishing paternity can secure rights and responsibilities for both parents and open the door to custody or child support proceedings. In cases involving abuse or neglect, the courts can intervene with protective orders or changes in custody to safeguard the well-being of children or vulnerable adults.
At its core, family law in Florida aims to protect families while guiding them through legal changes with fairness and clarity. At Crag Chaderton Law, we provide experienced, compassionate representation to help clients navigate these sensitive matters with strength, dignity, and a focus on lasting outcomes. Whether you are seeking guidance on divorce, custody, or adoption, we are here to stand by your side and advocate for your future.
Adjudication of Family Law Cases
The adjudication of a family law case typically begins when one party files a petition with the court — for example, a petition for divorce, child custody, or child support. The other party is then served with the legal paperwork and given a chance to respond. Once both sides are involved, the case may proceed through various stages, including mandatory financial disclosures, case management conferences, and possibly mediation, which is often required in family law matters to encourage resolution without trial.
If the parties cannot reach a voluntary agreement through negotiation or mediation, the case proceeds to a final hearing or trial. At this stage, a family law judge — not a jury — will review evidence, hear witness testimony, and listen to arguments from both parties' attorneys. The judge will then make a ruling based on Florida statutes, case law, and the facts presented in court, always considering the best interests of the child when applicable.
Issues like time-sharing (custody), child support, alimony, and the division of marital property are decided according to detailed legal standards. For example, child support is determined using Florida's child support guidelines, while equitable distribution laws govern how assets and debts are divided.
Once a judge enters a final judgment, the case is considered adjudicated. However, either party may return to court later to request a modification or enforcement of the order, especially in cases involving children, income changes, or relocation.
At Crag Chaderton Law, we guide clients through every stage of this process — from filing and responding, to courtroom litigation and post-judgment support — ensuring their rights are protected and their voice is heard in a system that can often feel overwhelming.
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