Sarasota Contested Divorce Lawyer

Experienced Representation for Complex Divorce Cases in Florida

A contested divorce becomes inevitable when emotions run high, and couples cannot reach an amicable agreement. Boeller Law, P.A. is here to guide you through these challenging times, providing expert legal counsel and unwavering support as your trusted Sarasota contested divorce lawyer.

Call Boeller Law, P.A. today at (941) 315-8598 or contact us online to schedule a meeting with our contested divorce attorney in Sarasota!

What is a Contested Divorce?

A contested divorce is a legal dissolution of a marriage where spouses cannot agree on critical issues such as property division, alimony, child custody, and child support. In these cases, the courts intervene to resolve the disputes and decide on these matters.

A contested divorce can be complex and emotionally charged, often involving numerous court appearances and legal procedures. However, with our experienced legal team at Boeller Law, P.A., we are committed to helping you navigate the complexities of a contested divorce in Florida.

Contested Divorce Requirements in Florida

Before delving into the intricacies of a contested divorce, it's essential to understand the basic requirements in Florida. To initiate a contested divorce, specific prerequisites must be met:

• Residency Requirement: At least one spouse must be a Florida resident or a member of the military stationed in Florida. Alternatively, one of the spouses should have resided in Florida for at least six months before filing for divorce.
• Grounds for Divorce: Florida is a "no-fault" divorce state, meaning you don't need to provide specific reasons for the divorce. You simply need to assert that the marriage is "irretrievably broken." While fault grounds are not required, the court may consider them in certain situations.
• Filing a Petition: The process begins by filing a "Petition for Dissolution of Marriage" in the appropriate Florida court. This petition outlines the issues to be addressed during the divorce, such as property division, alimony, and child custody.
• Serving Legal Documents: The other spouse must receive the divorce papers once the petition is filed. They will then be able to respond, agreeing or disagreeing with the terms outlined in the petition.

How Long Does a Contested Divorce Take?

The duration of a contested divorce can vary widely, depending on the complexity of the case and the level of conflict between the spouses. While some divorces can be resolved within a few months, others may take significantly longer.