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DIVORCE

Divorce is more than the end of a marriage—it’s a major legal and emotional transition that affects your finances, your family, and your future. In Florida, the law focuses on equitable distribution, parental responsibility, and fair resolution, but navigating the process can still be overwhelming without the right legal support.

What Is Divorce?

Divorce, also known as dissolution of marriage, is the legal process of ending a marital relationship. It involves dividing property and debts, determining custody of children, and establishing support agreements. Florida is a no-fault divorce state, meaning that either spouse can file for divorce without proving wrongdoing—simply stating that the marriage is “irretrievably broken” is enough.

How Divorce Works in Florida

Florida courts handle divorce cases based on fairness—not necessarily a 50/50 split, but what is equitable under the circumstances. The court will address:

Equitable distribution of marital assets and debts

Alimony (spousal support), based on length of the marriage, income, and needs

Child custody and visitation (now called time-sharing), always with the child’s best interests in mind

Child support, calculated using state guidelines

Temporary orders, to manage immediate needs during the divorce

While some divorces are settled amicably, others require litigation, especially when spouses disagree over money, parenting, or support.

OUR BATTLE PLAN

Our divorce legal strategy is built around protecting your rights, assets, and peace of mind through every stage of the process. We begin with a personalized consultation to assess your goals, then gather key documents and pursue fair, early resolutions through negotiation or mediation.

WHERE WE STAND

Whether your divorce is uncontested or complex, our firm is committed to providing steady legal guidance rooted in strategy, empathy, and integrity. We help clients in Orlando and throughout Central Florida navigate divorce with confidence, ensuring their rights are protected every step of the way.

Divorce

Emancipation of a Minor

Guardianship

Juvenile Delinquency

Modifications and Enforcement of Orders

Paternity

Prenuptial and Postnuptial Agreements

Termination of Parental Rights

CRAG CHADERTON LAW

A Proven Strategy to Protect Your Rights, Assets & Peace of Mind

We know divorce isn’t just a legal process—it’s a turning point in your life. Our Divorce Legal Battle Plan is designed to give clients in Orlando and Central Florida a clear path forward, protecting what matters most with skill, strength, and compassion.

Whether your case is amicable or contested, this is how we fight for your future:

Understanding Divorce Laws in Florida

Divorce, legally referred to as the dissolution of marriage in Florida, is the legal process that ends a marriage and resolves the financial, parental, and emotional ties between spouses. Florida is a no-fault divorce state, which means that a spouse does not need to prove infidelity, abuse, or wrongdoing to file for divorce. Instead, it is sufficient to state that the marriage is "irretrievably broken" — in other words, that it can no longer continue.

To file for divorce in Florida, at least one of the spouses must have been a resident of the state for a minimum of six months prior to filing. Once the petition for dissolution is filed and served to the other spouse, the court process begins. Depending on the level of agreement or disagreement between the parties, a divorce may be contested or uncontested. Uncontested divorces, where both parties agree on the terms, tend to move more quickly and cost less. Contested divorces, on the other hand, may require court hearings and a judge’s decision on key issues.

The court must address several important matters before granting a final divorce, including equitable distribution of marital property, alimony, child custody (now called parental responsibility and time-sharing), and child support. Florida follows the principle of equitable distribution, meaning that marital assets and debts are divided fairly — though not always equally — based on a number of statutory factors.

When children are involved, the court requires a parenting plan and applies the best interests of the child standard when determining custody and time-sharing. Florida law also provides for child support based on statutory guidelines that take into account each parent’s income, the number of overnight stays, and the needs of the child.

Divorce can be one of the most emotionally difficult times in a person’s life, but understanding your rights under Florida law — and working with experienced legal counsel — can help ensure that you’re protected and positioned to move forward with stability and strength.

Things You should know before Divorce

Contested vs. Uncontested Divorce

Divorces in Florida can be either contested or uncontested:

In an uncontested divorce, both parties agree on all major issues (property, custody, support), which allows for a faster and more affordable resolution.
A contested divorce involves disagreements and may require mediation, discovery, and trial — but don’t worry. Crag Chaderton Law is prepared to defend your interests through every legal avenue available.

Equitable Distribution of Property

Florida follows the principle of equitable distribution, which means the court divides marital property and debts in a way that is fair — though not always 50/50. This includes homes, retirement accounts, business assets, vehicles, and more.

We help ensure that your financial future is protected and that hidden assets, debts, or unfair terms are fully addressed.

Custody, Time-Sharing & Parenting Plans

When children are involved, Florida courts prioritize what’s in the best interest of the child. Both parents are encouraged to maintain an active role in their children’s lives unless there is clear evidence otherwise.

Quick Marriage Tips

1. Improve Communication:

Active listening:
Pay attention to your partner's words, body language, and emotions when they're speaking. Calm suggests in their blog post on rebuilding relationships by taking responsibility for your actions and actively listening.
Honest and kind expression:
Share your thoughts, feelings, and needs respectfully. Avoid harsh language or accusatory tones.
Regular check-ins:
Make time to connect daily, even if it's just for a few minutes, to talk about your day and feelings.

2. Rebuild Trust and Intimacy:

Forgive and let go:
Release past hurts and resentments. Holding onto them will only poison the relationship.
Spend quality time together:
Schedule date nights or engage in shared activities you both enjoy.
Show affection:
Small gestures of love and appreciation can go a long way in rebuilding intimacy.
Nurture your friendship:
Remember what initially attracted you to each other and work on rekindling that spark.

3. Seek Professional Help:

Marriage counseling:
A therapist can provide tools and guidance to help you communicate effectively, resolve conflicts, and rebuild your relationship.
Individual therapy:
If one or both partners are struggling with personal issues, individual therapy can help them develop healthier coping mechanisms and communication styles.

At Crag Chaderton Law, we understand how emotionally difficult and legally complex divorce can be. That’s why we provide personalized, compassionate legal guidance from start to finish. Whether your divorce is uncontested or involves high conflict, we’ll protect your rights, advocate for your goals, and help you make informed decisions about your future.

We offer:

Thorough case evaluations and honest legal advice

Strong negotiation and litigation skills to protect your financial and parental interests

Supportive, responsive communication so you're never left in the dark

Strategic planning to help you move forward with clarity and confidence

You don’t have to go through this alone. Let us help you find peace of mind during one of life’s most challenging transitions.

💔 Facing Divorce? Don’t Face It Alone.

Whether you're dealing with custody, property division, or spousal support, our team is here to protect your rights and help you move forward with confidence.

📞 Call us today for a confidential consultation. (321) 443 7481

Your future deserves strong legal support.

Crag Chaderton Law – Where family matters, matter.