Top Questions We Hear from Florida Divorce Clients
These are the real questions our clients ask. No jargon. No scare tactics. Just practical answers and honest expectations.
At least 6 months. One spouse must have lived in Florida for 6 months prior to filing. Military members stationed in Florida under orders may qualify without traditional residency.
Florida is a no-fault divorce state. You don’t have to prove wrongdoing — just that the marriage is “irretrievably broken.”
You’ll need a Parenting Plan outlining custody (parental responsibility), timesharing, and child support. Florida courts focus on the child’s best interests, not parental preferences.
It depends. If the home is marital property, the court will determine who stays, who pays, or whether to sell it — often based on children, finances, and equity.
Just like assets, marital debts (credit cards, loans, mortgages) are divided equitably — not always equally. You won’t be stuck with your spouse’s secret spending, but all debts are reviewed.
Maybe. Florida allows temporary, bridge-the-gap, rehabilitative, and durational alimony based on:
Permanent alimony has been abolished in Florida.
Not always. Many divorces are resolved through mediation or settlement agreements. If issues can’t be resolved, you may attend temporary hearings or a final trial.
No. Florida ethical rules prohibit one attorney from representing both parties in a divorce, even if it’s amicable. We represent one spouse only to ensure loyalty and clarity.
You can still proceed with a contested divorce. After formal service of process, your spouse has 20 days to respond. If they don’t, you may pursue a default judgment.
Relocation with children (more than 50 miles) requires either:
This is a common issue — especially after divorce — and must be handled carefully to avoid contempt or modification.
Military divorce involves:
We regularly represent military spouses and service members across the Panhandle.
Technically, no. But divorce impacts your:
Even in uncontested cases, a lawyer ensures your agreement is enforceable, your rights are protected, and nothing is missed.
We serve clients across:
And throughout Northwest Florida
From the coast to the Wiregrass line, we provide trusted legal representation in:
Whether you live in Panama City or commute in from across the Panhandle, we offer virtual consultations, flexible scheduling, and personalized legal support from a team that understands Northwest Florida values.
Use the form to get in touch. Send a message, and let’s discuss how I can support you through your legal matter.
Want clear answers now? Get the free guide I wrote to help clients like you navigate divorce in the 850.
Disclaimer: The information on this site is not legal advice and does not create an attorney-client relationship. Past results do not guarantee future outcomes. Justin Andersson is not board certified in marital and family law by The Florida Bar. For full details, please see our Legal Disclaimer page or email info@850DivorceLawyer.com to request a copy.
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