⚖️ Equitable Distribution in Florida Divorce
Fair Doesn't Always Mean Equal — But It Should Always Be Smart
Dividing property in a divorce can be one of the most stressful and emotionally charged parts of the process. From homes and cars to investments and debts, couples accumulate a lot during marriage — and when it ends, everything has to be divided.
At Family Matters Law Group, P.A., we help you navigate equitable distribution in a way that's strategic, transparent, and fair. Whether you're concerned about what's marital vs. non-marital, how debt is divided, or whether your ex is hiding assets — we've got your back.
📚 What Is Equitable Distribution in Florida?
In Florida, we follow the principle of equitable distribution — not community property.
That means the court aims to divide assets and debts equitably (fairly), not necessarily equally. A 50/50 split is just a starting point — the court will consider several factors before determining what is truly fair in your case.
Examples of equitable outcomes:
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One spouse may receive a greater share of assets to offset less income or greater child-rearing responsibilities
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If a spouse wasted marital money (e.g., during an affair), the other may receive a larger portion as reimbursement
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Contributions like homemaking or pausing a career for the family are factored in
🏠 What Is Considered Marital Property in Florida?
Marital property includes anything acquired during the marriage, regardless of whose name is on it:
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The marital home and other real estate
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Vehicles, furniture, and household items
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Joint bank accounts and savings
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Retirement accounts (401(k), pensions, etc.)
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Investment and brokerage accounts
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Businesses or professional practices started during the marriage
Non-marital property typically includes:
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Assets owned before the marriage
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Inheritances or gifts specifically given to one spouse
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Certain personal injury awards
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Anything protected by a valid prenuptial agreement
Warning: If non-marital assets were commingled with marital funds (e.g., using inheritance to pay for a joint home), they may be subject to division.
💳 What About Debt?
Debt is also part of equitable distribution.
In most cases, debt acquired during the marriage is shared, even if only one spouse's name is on the account. This includes:
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Credit card balances
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Mortgages
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Car loans
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Tax liabilities
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Business debts tied to marital income
Separate debts, like student loans from before marriage or debts clearly tied to non-marital assets, are typically excluded.
🚩 Common Challenges We Handle
Dividing assets isn't always straightforward. Some common problems include:
1. Hiding Assets
One spouse may try to delay bonuses, undervalue a business, or move funds to another account. We know what to look for — and how to get the evidence.
2. Misclassifying Property
Disputes often arise over whether an asset or debt is marital or separate. We help classify everything accurately and advocate for your position.
3. Unequal Financial Power
One spouse may have more access to records, accounts, or legal advice. We level the playing field.
💼 How We Help at Family Matters Law Group
We don't just fill out forms — we build strategic plans that protect your financial future.
Our Approach:
✔ Full Asset & Debt Analysis – We dig deep, including tracing hidden or misclassified property
✔ Negotiation & Mediation – We help resolve property issues before they reach a judge
✔ Litigation-Ready Representation – If needed, we're prepared to go to court and argue your case
✔ Insight into Complex Assets – Including businesses, crypto, retirement, and passive investments
✔ Personalized Strategy – Not all divorces are created equal. Neither are our solutions.
📞 Let's Talk About Protecting What's Yours
If you're facing divorce in Florida and worried about how your assets and debts will be divided, don't wait until things get messy. Let's create a plan that protects your interests from the start.
👉 Schedule Your Strategy Session
📞 Or call (954) 904-1020
At Family Matters Law Group, P.A., we'll give you honest advice, a clear legal roadmap, and unwavering support — so you walk away with what you deserve.
