Divorce FAQs: What You Need to Know
Florida Divorce Can Be Overwhelming — Let's Make It Clear.
Whether your divorce is amicable or contentious, with kids or without, high assets or simple finances — one thing is always true: divorce is emotionally draining. Under stress, it's easy to overlook important legal details or agree to something that doesn't serve your long-term interests.
That's why Family Matters Law Group, P.A. is here. We help you stay focused, informed, and empowered — so you can move forward with clarity and confidence.
Here are answers to some of the most common divorce questions we hear from clients across Florida. For advice tailored to your situation, we recommend scheduling a confidential Strategy Session.
💸 How much does a divorce in Florida cost?
It depends. The biggest factor is whether your divorce is contested or uncontested.
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Uncontested Divorce (you agree on everything):
Typically faster, simpler, and less expensive. No court hearings are usually required. -
Contested Divorce (you don't agree):
Costs vary based on the number of issues in dispute — child custody, support, property, hidden assets, or high conflict.
At Family Matters Law Group, we offer flexible options:
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Full legal representation
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Flat-fee strategy sessions
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DIY Legal coaching & forms
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Mediation services
👉 We work with a wide range of budgets. Let's find the right fit for you.
🙅 What if my spouse doesn't want the divorce?
You can still get divorced in Florida. We are a no-fault divorce state.
That means if one party believes the marriage is “irretrievably broken,” you have the legal right to file — whether or not your spouse agrees.
🔍 Can I file for divorce in Florida based on adultery?
Not exactly. Florida does not require fault to get divorced.
However, if your spouse used marital money on an affair (gifts, trips, rent, etc.), that can factor into the division of assets — known as “waste” of marital funds.
So, no, adultery doesn't get you a better divorce — but financial misconduct tied to the affair might matter.
👨👩👧 How is child custody and support determined in Florida?
Custody and support are decided based on the best interests of the child — not what's easiest for the parents.
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Parental Responsibility: Who makes decisions (medical, school, religion)?
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Timesharing: How overnights are split between the parents
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Child Support: A formula considers income, timesharing, health costs, and childcare
Courts want both parents to stay involved when possible, but will take safety, consistency, and stability into account. Every parenting plan should be child-centered and specific.
💰 How is alimony handled in Florida?
Florida recently updated its alimony laws. Today, alimony is based on:
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The requesting spouse's need
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The paying spouse's ability to pay
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Length of the marriage
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Earning history and future opportunities
Types of alimony may include bridge-the-gap, rehabilitative, or durational, depending on your case. We'll help you determine whether alimony applies and how to present the strongest position.
🏠 How are assets and debts divided?
Florida follows equitable distribution — which means fair, not necessarily equal.
Here's what courts consider:
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Marital vs. nonmarital property
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Contributions to the marriage (financial and otherwise)
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Economic misconduct (like hiding money or running up debt)
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Each spouse's financial situation post-divorce
We use subpoenas, financial disclosures, and document review to ensure transparency and fairness.
🆘 My spouse is abusive — how can I protect myself?
Divorce can be the most dangerous time for someone in an abusive relationship. Your safety comes first.
We can help you:
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File for a domestic violence injunction (restraining order)
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Create a safety plan and connect with community resources
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Navigate your divorce with confidentiality and protection measures
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Address custody and visitation concerns carefully and proactively
Don't wait to get help. We understand the complexities of divorcing an abuser — and you won't go through it alone.
📂 How do I start my divorce in Broward County (or anywhere in Florida)?
To file for divorce, you must submit a Petition for Dissolution of Marriage with the clerk of the court in your county. The other party is served and has 20 days to respond.
But here's the truth:
Filing is the easy part. Making sure everything is handled correctly — finances, parenting, support — is where we come in.
You can start with:
📞 Ready to Talk?
If you're considering divorce or already received papers, don't go it alone.
Call us at (954) 904-1020 or book a Strategy Session online to explore your options with a Florida family law attorney who truly listens.
You're not just getting legal advice. You're getting a plan — and a partner in the process.
