At Nelson Koster, we want to help you get through this difficult time as easily as possible. We offer services in a variety of family law matters for both married and unmarried couples. Our services include:
Divorce Litigation: This is the most common route couples take when they cannot agree on major issues. Florida has slightly nonstandard divorce laws, in that there is no established “primary caregiver” and no “visitation” periods. Instead, Florida law emphasizes the unique contribution each parent will make to the child’s development. We will help you navigate the process of creating a Parenting Plan and establishing alimony and child support payments.
Paternity: When a couple was never married, but had children together, child support and visitation arrangements can be made just as in a marriage. Usually, the biggest difference between a divorce and a paternity case is to determine who the child’s father is. This, however, is usually not an issue.
Post-Divorce Modification: In the case of a major lifestyle shift, like a new job or significant financial burden, either party can file for an adjustment to the payment and time-sharing plans. A lawyer can help you understand what you can and cannot use as grounds for modification, and can help you request a reasonable new plan.
Domestic Violence: Divorces in which domestic abuse is involved are often the most difficult and painful to go through – and the most necessary. If you think you may be a victim of abuse, or have been accused of abuse, please call us immediately to discuss your situation. We can help.
Mediation: If a couple agrees on most of the major issues, a divorce can usually be settled through mediation. This is a simple process in which the mediator sets up a basic contract for you and your partner to sign. Both parties can make amendments to the contract. Once you and your spouse agree on the terms, you’ll both sign the agreement, the mediator will file the paperwork. Mediation is the quickest way to a divorce. Mr. Nelson is a certified mediator; to see his availability click here.
The journey through divorce and the legal system can be long and confusing, and each family’s situation is unique. However, most divorces follow a general pattern:
1. Establish our firm as your legal representation.
2. Review the PEACE outline to determine which applies to your family
a. Parenting Plan
b. Equitable Distribution
c. Alimony
d. Child Support
e. Everything Else
3. Discuss your goals
4. Discuss in detail the divorce process in detail, settlement options, mediation, and litigation
5. Work with our team to help you achieve your goals.
Knowing this pattern can help you navigate the legal process established by Florida divorce law. In addition, checking in with your attorney often will ensure you are doing what you are supposed to.
It doesn’t always have to be painful to get a divorce. Florida is a “no fault” state, meaning that if both parties agree on the major terms of the divorce, a simple procedure (mediation, followed by a one-step petition) can dissolve a marriage in as little as a few weeks. We frequently work with no-fault cases, and have extensive experience with the mediation process.
If, however, you and your spouse don’t agree on the major issues, you may have a difficult process ahead of you. We will help you meet your goals, be they time with your children or the freedom to move on.
Ready to take the first step?