Boca Raton Divorce Lawyers
When your marriage reaches a turning point, the decisions you make in the coming months will shape your financial future, your relationship with your children, and your path forward. Divorce is never simple, but having the right legal guidance can make the difference between an outcome that protects your interests and one that leaves you struggling to recover. At Williams & Varsegi, LLC, we practice exclusively in the area of divorce and family law, bringing over twenty years of experience to clients throughout Palm Beach and Broward County. As a trusted Boca Raton divorce lawyer team, we handle everything from high-net worth, high-conflict cases to uncontested or simplified matters, providing the knowledgeable and compassionate representation you need during one of life’s most challenging transitions.
Our boutique firm focuses solely on family law because we believe that specialization leads to better results. When you work with Williams & Varsegi, LLC, you benefit from attorneys who understand the nuances of Florida divorce law, the tendencies of local judges, and the strategies that lead to favorable outcomes in Palm Beach County courts. Whether your case requires aggressive litigation or benefits from a collaborative approach, we tailor our strategy to your specific circumstances and goals.
Understanding Divorce in Florida
Florida is a no-fault divorce state, meaning neither spouse must prove wrongdoing to end the marriage. The only requirement is that one party demonstrates the marriage is irretrievably broken. While this simplifies the grounds for divorce, it does not simplify the process of untangling shared lives, dividing assets, and establishing custody arrangements that serve the best interests of children.
Florida courts follow the principle of equitable distribution when dividing marital property. Equitable does not mean equal. Instead, the court considers numerous factors including the duration of the marriage, each spouse’s economic circumstances, contributions to the marriage including homemaking and child-rearing, and the desirability of retaining certain assets intact. In Boca Raton and the surrounding communities of Palm Beach County, marriages often involve substantial assets including real estate, business interests, investment portfolios, and retirement accounts. Properly valuing and dividing these assets requires experienced legal counsel who understands both the legal framework and the financial complexities involved.
Types of Divorce Available in Florida
Every divorce is unique, and Florida law provides several pathways depending on your circumstances and level of agreement with your spouse.
An uncontested divorce occurs when both spouses agree on all major issues including property division, alimony, child custody, and support. These cases move through the court system more quickly and cost significantly less than contested matters. However, even an uncontested divorce benefits from legal review to ensure the agreement protects your rights and addresses all necessary issues.
A contested divorce involves disputes over one or more significant issues that the parties cannot resolve through negotiation. These cases often require discovery, depositions, expert witnesses, and potentially trial. Our divorce attorneys in Boca Raton have extensive courtroom experience and prepare every contested case with the thoroughness required for litigation.
Florida also offers a simplified dissolution of marriage for couples who meet specific criteria. To qualify, you must have no minor children, the wife cannot be pregnant, both parties must agree on the division of all assets and debts, and both must waive alimony rights. Additionally, at least one spouse must have lived in Florida for six months before filing.
Collaborative divorce provides an alternative to traditional litigation where both parties and their attorneys commit to resolving all issues through negotiation rather than court intervention. This process often involves financial specialists, child specialists, and divorce coaches who help the family transition with minimal conflict.
Mediation involves a neutral third party who helps spouses reach agreement on contested issues. Florida courts often require mediation before trial, and many cases settle during this process. Successful mediation allows the parties to maintain control over the outcome rather than leaving decisions to a judge, contact our Boca Raton family law attorneys to learn more.
Common Issues in Palm Beach County Divorces
The divorces we handle for clients in Boca Raton, Coral Springs, Parkland, and Delray Beach frequently involve complex issues that require careful attention and strategic planning.
Child custody, known in Florida as time-sharing and parental responsibility, often presents the most emotionally charged aspect of divorce. Florida courts prioritize the best interests of the child when establishing parenting plans. Factors include each parent’s ability to provide a stable environment, the child’s existing relationship with each parent, the willingness of each parent to encourage a relationship with the other parent, and the child’s adjustment to home, school, and community. Our attorneys advocate for parenting arrangements that protect your relationship with your children while promoting their wellbeing.
Child support in Florida follows statutory guidelines that consider each parent’s income, the number of overnights each parent has with the children, health insurance costs, daycare expenses, and other factors. Deviating from the guidelines requires demonstrating that the standard calculation would be inappropriate or unjust. We help clients understand their rights and obligations and work to establish support orders that reflect the true financial circumstances of both households.
Alimony remains a significant issue in many divorces, particularly longer marriages or those with substantial income disparities. Florida recognizes several forms of alimony including temporary support during the divorce process, bridge-the-gap alimony to help a spouse transition to single life, rehabilitative alimony to support education or training, and durational alimony for a set period following the divorce. Recent changes to Florida alimony law have eliminated permanent alimony and established new guidelines that our attorneys navigate daily.
Property division in South Florida often involves substantial real estate holdings, business valuations, professional practices, stock options, deferred compensation, and retirement assets. Properly identifying, valuing, and dividing these assets requires financial expertise and legal knowledge. We work with forensic accountants, business valuators, and other experts when necessary to ensure our clients receive their fair share of marital property.
The Divorce Process in Florida
Understanding what to expect helps reduce anxiety and allows you to make informed decisions throughout your case.
The process begins when one spouse files a petition for dissolution of marriage with the court. The petitioner must have resided in Florida for at least six months before filing. The other spouse is then served with divorce papers and has twenty days to file a response. Failing to respond can result in a default judgment.
Discovery follows, during which both parties exchange information about finances, assets, and debts. This process includes interrogatories, requests for production of documents, and sometimes depositions. Complete financial disclosure is mandatory in Florida divorces, and hiding assets can result in serious penalties.
Most Florida courts require mediation before a case can proceed to trial. Mediation provides an opportunity to resolve disputes with the help of a trained neutral mediator. Many cases settle at this stage, saving both parties the expense and uncertainty of trial.
If mediation fails to resolve all issues, the case proceeds to trial where a judge makes final decisions on contested matters. Trial requires thorough preparation, compelling presentation of evidence, and effective advocacy. Our firm has the courtroom experience necessary to represent your interests effectively before a judge.
Once all issues are resolved, the court enters a final judgment of dissolution of marriage, officially ending the marriage and establishing the rights and obligations of both parties going forward.
High-Net Worth Divorce in Boca Raton
The affluent communities of Palm Beach County present unique challenges in divorce cases. High-net worth divorces often involve complex asset structures, business ownership, multiple properties, investment portfolios, trusts, and significant retirement assets. These cases require attorneys who understand sophisticated financial instruments and can work effectively with forensic accountants, business valuators, and other financial experts.
Boca Raton, Parkland, and Delray Beach are home to successful professionals, business owners, and executives whose compensation packages often include stock options, restricted stock units, deferred compensation, and performance bonuses. Properly valuing and dividing these assets requires understanding both their current worth and their future implications.
Real estate holdings in South Florida have appreciated significantly over the past decade, making the family home and investment properties major assets in many divorces. Determining whether to sell the marital home, buy out a spouse’s interest, or defer sale until children reach adulthood requires careful analysis of both financial and practical considerations.
Business ownership adds another layer of complexity. Whether the business is a professional practice, a family company, or an entrepreneurial venture, questions of valuation, characterization as marital or non-marital property, and ongoing management must be addressed. Our firm works with qualified business valuators to ensure accurate assessments that protect our clients’ interests. We also handle divorces involving physicians, federal employees, and police and fire personnel who face unique considerations regarding pensions, benefits, and professional licenses.
Protecting Children During Divorce
Children’s wellbeing remains paramount throughout the divorce process. Florida law requires parents to complete a parenting course before finalizing their divorce, reflecting the state’s commitment to minimizing the impact of divorce on children.
Developing a comprehensive parenting plan requires addressing numerous practical issues including the time-sharing schedule, holiday and vacation arrangements, decision-making authority for education and healthcare, communication between households, and provisions for resolving future disputes. A well-crafted parenting plan reduces conflict and provides stability for children as they adjust to their new family structure.
When parents cannot agree on custody arrangements, the court may appoint a guardian ad litem to represent the child’s interests or order a social investigation to gather information about each household. In some cases, a parenting coordinator may be appointed to help parents implement their parenting plan and resolve day-to-day disputes.
Relocation presents particular challenges when one parent wishes to move more than fifty miles from the current residence. Florida law requires court approval for such moves when a parenting plan is in place, and the relocating parent must demonstrate that the move serves the child’s best interests.
Why Choose Williams & Varsegi, LLC
Selecting the best divorce attorney near you significantly impacts both the process and the outcome of your case. Our firm offers distinct advantages for clients facing divorce in Palm Beach and Broward County.
- We practice exclusively in family law. This focus means we stay current on developments in Florida divorce law, understand the preferences of local judges, and have established relationships within the family law community that benefit our clients.
- Our attorneys have over twenty years of experience handling divorce and family law matters. We have seen virtually every situation that can arise in a divorce and know how to navigate challenges effectively.
- We provide personalized attention to every client. When you hire Williams & Varsegi, LLC, you work directly with experienced attorneys who know your case and are accessible when you have questions or concerns.
- We are skilled negotiators and experienced litigators. Many cases benefit from resolution through negotiation or mediation, and we pursue these options when appropriate. However, when litigation becomes necessary, we have the courtroom skills to advocate effectively for your interests.
- We understand the financial complexities common in South Florida divorces. From business valuations to complex asset division, we have the knowledge and resources to protect your financial future.
Boca Raton Divorce FAQs
How long does a divorce take in Florida?
The timeline varies significantly based on whether the divorce is contested or uncontested and the complexity of the issues involved. Florida imposes a mandatory twenty-day waiting period after filing before a divorce can be finalized. An uncontested divorce with no children can potentially be completed in as little as four to six weeks. Contested divorces involving custody disputes, complex assets, or significant conflict can take twelve to eighteen months or longer. Our attorneys work efficiently to move your case forward while ensuring thorough preparation.
How is property divided in a Florida divorce?
Florida follows the principle of equitable distribution, meaning marital property is divided fairly but not necessarily equally. The court considers factors including the duration of the marriage, each spouse’s economic circumstances and contributions, the desirability of retaining certain assets like a business or home, and each spouse’s contribution to acquiring marital assets. Non-marital property, such as assets owned before the marriage or received as gifts or inheritance, generally remains with the original owner.
What factors determine child custody in Florida?
Florida courts base custody decisions on the best interests of the child. Statutory factors include each parent’s capacity to provide a stable and loving home, the child’s existing relationships with each parent, each parent’s willingness to support the child’s relationship with the other parent, the child’s adjustment to home and school, and evidence of domestic violence or substance abuse. Courts generally favor arrangements that allow both parents meaningful involvement in the child’s life.
Can I get alimony in my Florida divorce?
Alimony may be awarded based on one spouse’s need and the other spouse’s ability to pay. The court considers factors including the duration of the marriage, each spouse’s financial resources, earning capacity, contributions to the marriage, and the standard of living established during the marriage. Recent changes to Florida law have eliminated permanent alimony and established formulas for calculating durational alimony based on the length of the marriage.
Do I have to go to court to get divorced in Florida?
Not necessarily. Many divorces settle through negotiation or mediation without requiring a trial. However, even in uncontested cases, at least one party typically must appear at a brief final hearing to finalize the divorce. If you and your spouse cannot reach agreement on all issues, a judge will need to make decisions on contested matters, which may require a trial.
What is the difference between legal separation and divorce in Florida?
Florida does not recognize legal separation as a formal legal status. Couples who wish to live apart without divorcing may enter into a postnuptial agreement or seek court orders for support and custody while remaining legally married. However, this does not change the marital status or allow either party to remarry. For couples seeking a definitive end to the marriage, divorce is the appropriate legal remedy.
How is child support calculated in Florida?
Florida uses statutory guidelines that consider both parents’ net income, the number of children, the amount of time each parent spends with the children, health insurance costs, childcare expenses, and certain other factors. The court can deviate from the guidelines if applying them would be unjust or inappropriate, but such deviations require specific findings. Our attorneys ensure that all relevant income and expenses are properly accounted for in support calculations.
What should I do to prepare for a divorce consultation?
Gather financial documents including tax returns, pay stubs, bank statements, investment account statements, retirement account statements, and documentation of assets and debts. Consider your goals for custody arrangements if you have children. Think about your concerns and priorities for the divorce. Write down questions you want to ask. The more information you bring to the consultation, the more specific guidance your attorney can provide.
Can my spouse and I use the same divorce attorney?
No. An attorney cannot represent both parties in a divorce because the interests of the spouses inherently conflict. Each party needs independent legal counsel to ensure their rights are protected. However, in uncontested cases, some couples choose to have one party represented while the other proceeds without an attorney, though this approach carries risks for the unrepresented spouse.
What happens to debt in a Florida divorce?
Marital debts are divided equitably along with marital assets. Debts incurred during the marriage for marital purposes are generally considered marital debt regardless of whose name is on the account. The court considers factors similar to those used for asset division when allocating responsibility for debts. It is important to address all debts in the divorce agreement because creditors are not bound by divorce decrees and may still pursue either spouse for joint obligations.
Serving Throughout Boca & South Florida
Williams & Varsegi, LLC proudly serves families throughout Boca Raton and the surrounding South Florida communities. Our divorce and family law attorneys represent clients in established neighborhoods like Broken Sound, Boca Pointe, Camino Gardens, Royal Oak Hills, Old Floresta, Boca Villas, Boca Raton Riviera, Millpond, Boca Del Mar, Whisper Walk, Century Village, Boca Teeca, Palm Beach Farms, University Park, and the Golden Triangle.
We serve prestigious country club communities including Woodfield Country Club and its many neighborhoods such as The Enclave, Regents Square, Victoria Isles, Hamilton Place, Hamptons, Kensington, Landings, Mayfair, Princeton Estates, Somerset, Stratford Green, Windsor Bay, Cambridge Park, Carlton Place, Clubside, Coventry, and Devon Place. Our team also represents clients in St. Andrews Country Club, Addison Reserve, Boca West Country Club, Boca Grove, Boca Woods Country Club, Boca Lago, Boca Chase, Royal Palm Yacht & Country Club, Royal Palm Polo, The Oaks, Polo Club, and Heron Bay.
Our attorneys also represent residents of newer developments such as Seven Bridges, Boca Bridges, Lotus, Lotus Palms, Lotus Edge, Seasons, Mission Bay, Estancia, The Sanctuary, Long Lake Estates, Le Rivage, Boca Harbour, Fieldbrook Estates, and Palma Vista. We also serve clients in Downtown Boca Raton and Mizner Park.
Beyond Boca Raton, Williams & Varsegi, LLC serves families in Coral Springs, Parkland, Delray Beach, Deerfield Beach, Coconut Creek, Boynton Beach, Highland Beach, Lighthouse Point, and Pompano Beach.
Contact A Skilled Boca Raton Divorce Attorney at Williams & Varsegi, LLC
If you are facing divorce or any family law matter in Palm Beach or Broward County, Williams & Varsegi, LLC is here to help you navigate this challenging time. Our firm’s exclusive focus on family law, combined with over twenty years of experience, allows us to provide the knowledgeable and strategic representation you need. Whether your situation calls for skilled negotiation or vigorous courtroom advocacy, our Boca Raton divorce attorneys will guide you through every step of the process.
Contact Williams & Varsegi, LLC at 954-255-5655 to schedule a consultation at our office located at 2701 NW Boca Raton Blvd, Suite 104, and take the first step toward protecting your future. Our motto and how we approach your case is Everything Family Law because Family is Everything, so contact our firm today to start the conversation.
