Tampa Divorce Lawyer

Trust Givens Law Group for Qualified Family Law Representation

At the Givens Law Group, we understand that marriage dissolution can be a very difficult time for you and your family. That is why we have dedicated our legal practice to serving families and individuals who have family law and divorce issues throughout Florida.

Our firm’s reputation is built on experience, recognition, and a strong commitment to clients:

• Recognized leadership: Both founding partners, Christian Givens and Stann Givens, are listed in Best Lawyers of America and Super Lawyers, and each has served as chair of the Hillsborough County Bar Association Family Law Section.
• Firm-wide honors: Givens Law Group has been selected for inclusion in Best Law Firms by U.S. News.
• Individual distinction: In March 2015, the Family Law Inn of Tampa permanently renamed the organization in honor of Stann W. Givens, becoming The Stann W. Givens Family Law Inn.
• Professional recognition: Stann Givens was also honored by the Thirteenth Judicial Circuit Court with the Professionalism Award, which is presented annually to only one private practice attorney. He is a former chair of the Florida Bar Board-Certification Committee for Marital and Family Law.
• Reputation and values: Our divorce attorneys are known throughout the region for their professionalism, ethics, and dedication to clients. Givens Law Group fights for its clients like family.

Call Givens Law Group today at (813) 328-6159 or contact us online to schedule a consultation with our lawyers.

Family Law and Divorce Matters We Handle in Tampa

Our family law lawyers have extensive experience and knowledge in the legal aspects of divorce, including the following:

• Alimony
• Child custody
• Child support
• Collaborative divorce
• Divorce mediation
• Divorce modification
• Enforcement
• Grounds for dissolution
• High net worth divorce
• Military divorce
• Property division
• Same-Sex divorce

What is a Divorce?

A divorce—also known as the dissolution of marriage—is the legal process of ending a marital relationship. Divorce proceedings address various important issues, such as dividing marital property, determining child custody and visitation, and deciding whether one spouse should pay alimony or child support. Having an experienced Tampa divorce attorney helps to ensure your rights and interests are fully protected every step of the way.

Common Factors in a Tampa Divorce

Every divorce is different, but most involve several key issues that must be resolved before the court can finalize the dissolution. At Givens Law Group, our Tampa divorce attorneys are well-versed in negotiating and litigating complex matters such as:

Alimony (Spousal Support)

Florida courts may order one spouse to provide financial support to the other following a divorce. Factors that influence alimony include the length of the marriage, each spouse’s income and earning capacity, contributions to the marriage, and standard of living during the marriage. Our firm advocates for fair alimony arrangements that reflect your financial situation and future stability.

Child Custody (Time-Sharing)

Child custody—legally referred to in Florida as time-sharing—determines how parents will divide their responsibilities and time with their children. The court prioritizes the best interests of the child, considering factors such as parental fitness, home environment, and each parent’s ability to meet the child’s emotional and developmental needs. Our team helps parents establish workable parenting plans that promote stability and healthy co-parenting relationships.

Child Support

Child support ensures that children receive the financial resources they need following a divorce. Florida uses a standardized formula to calculate child support based on both parents’ incomes, time-sharing arrangements, and expenses such as healthcare and education. Whether you are seeking or paying child support, our Tampa divorce lawyers help you pursue accurate calculations and fair outcomes.

Property Division

When it comes to property division, Florida is an equitable distribution state, meaning marital property is divided fairly—but not necessarily equally. This includes assets such as homes, vehicles, savings, investments, and retirement accounts. We work diligently to identify and value marital assets and debts to pursue a fair division that protects your long-term financial interests.

Florida Divorce Laws

Understanding Florida’s divorce laws can help you make informed decisions about your case. Some of the most important aspects include:

• Residency Requirement: At least one spouse must have lived in Florida for six months before filing for divorce.
• No-Fault Divorce: Florida does not require proof of wrongdoing; you only need to show that the marriage is irretrievably broken.
• Equitable Distribution: The court divides marital assets and debts in a manner it deems fair, considering factors like contributions to the marriage and each spouse’s financial situation.
• Parenting Plans: Parents must submit a detailed parenting plan outlining time-sharing and decision-making responsibilities.
• Mandatory Disclosure: Both parties must provide full financial disclosure to ensure fair property and support decisions.

Our Tampa divorce attorneys at Givens Law Group help you navigate these legal requirements efficiently, minimizing stress while safeguarding your rights.

The Divorce Process in Florida

Although every divorce is unique, the general process in Florida follows several key steps:

1. Filing the Petition: One spouse (the petitioner) files a “Petition for Dissolution of Marriage” in the appropriate county court.
2. Service of Process: The petition is formally served to the other spouse (the respondent), who must then file a response.
3. Financial Disclosure: Both parties exchange detailed financial information about income, assets, and debts.
4. Negotiation or Mediation: Many couples reach a settlement through negotiation or court-ordered mediation.
5. Trial (if necessary): If the parties cannot agree, the case proceeds to trial, where a judge will decide unresolved issues.
6. Final Judgment: Once all matters are resolved, the court issues a final judgment, officially dissolving the marriage.

At Givens Law Group, our Tampa divorce lawyer provides skilled representation throughout the process—whether your divorce is uncontested and amicable or involves complex disputes over assets, custody, or support.

Types of Divorce: Simplified and Regular Dissolution

 If you are considering divorce, it is important to understand the two primary dissolution options and how they differ based on the complexity of your situation:

• Simplified dissolution: This option is available only when the situation is straightforward. It requires that there are no minor children, no requests for alimony, and no marital assets or debts to divide. Both spouses must agree to the divorce and file a joint petition, making the process faster and less complicated.
• Regular dissolution: This process applies to more complex or contested divorces. Both parties must exchange financial information through mandatory disclosure, and additional details may be obtained through discovery methods such as interrogatories or depositions. Mediation is often required, and if no agreement is reached, the case proceeds to trial, where evidence and witness testimony are presented before a judge issues a final order.

Understanding these two processes can help you determine which approach best fits your circumstances. Factors such as the complexity of your finances, issues involving children, and long‑term goals often play a key role in deciding which type of dissolution is appropriate.

Important Considerations for Your Divorce in Tampa

When navigating the complexities of divorce in Florida, there are several critical factors to keep in mind to ensure the process runs as smoothly as possible. These key considerations can significantly impact the outcome of your case:

• Attorneys: Consulting a family law attorney is highly recommended, especially in contested cases.
• Mandatory Parenting Course: Parents with minor children may be required to complete a parenting course.
• Financial Affidavit: Both parties must file a financial affidavit detailing their income, expenses, assets, and liabilities.
• No Common Law Marriage: Florida does not recognize common law marriages.

A deeper understanding of these considerations can prevent unexpected obstacles. For example, being aware of the state’s stance on common law marriage can prevent assumptions that might affect asset division. The completion of a parenting course can also provide invaluable insights into better co-parenting post-divorce, ultimately serving the best interests of the children involved.

Common Mistakes People Make During Divorce in Tampa

Below are some of the most common mistakes people make when getting a divorce in Florida, along with how an experienced Tampa divorce lawyer can help you avoid them:

1. Misunderstanding Florida’s Equitable Distribution Laws: Florida is an equitable distribution state, meaning marital assets and debts are divided fairly, though not always equally. A common mistake is assuming you’ll automatically keep certain assets, like the family home or retirement accounts, without understanding how the court evaluates property division under state law.
2. Hiding or Failing to Disclose Assets: Some individuals attempt to hide assets, believing it will help them keep more after the divorce. This can backfire, leading to legal penalties, loss of credibility, and unfavorable court decisions. Full financial transparency is essential.
3. Letting Emotions Drive Decisions: Divorce is emotionally charged, and some people make impulsive decisions based on anger, fear, or resentment. This could mean rejecting reasonable settlement offers, fighting over minor assets, or needlessly prolonging litigation, all of which can harm your case and your well-being.
4. Overlooking the Impact on Children: Failing to prioritize the best interests of your children can lead to emotional harm and unfavorable outcomes in child custody and visitation arrangements. Florida courts focus heavily on what supports the child’s well-being and stability.
5. Ignoring Future Financial Needs: Many divorcing individuals underestimate future financial expenses such as health insurance, taxes, retirement savings, and potential alimony. This lack of planning often results in financial hardship after the divorce is finalized.
6. Agreeing to Unfair Settlements to “Move On”: Some people rush to finalize their divorce just to avoid conflict, resulting in unfair agreements on property division, spousal support, or child support. These rushed decisions can have lasting financial and personal consequences.
7. Going Through Divorce Without Professional Legal Guidance: Divorce involves complex legal procedures, paperwork, and court deadlines. Attempting a DIY divorce without an attorney often leads to costly mistakes, missed opportunities, and unenforceable agreements that can hurt you in the long run.

Avoiding these pitfalls often requires meticulous preparation and an objective approach, which can be challenging without professional guidance. Legal representation helps in navigating these challenges, leveraging their experience to anticipate potential issues and formulate strategies that align with personal and family goals.

How Our Tampa Divorce Attorney Helps You

Partnering with an experienced Tampa divorce attorney from Givens Law Group helps you make informed, strategic decisions at every step. Here’s how we can help:

• Clear Understanding of Florida Divorce Laws: We guide you through Florida’s equitable distribution rules, ensuring all marital assets, debts, and income sources are fully identified, properly valued, and fairly divided.
• Ensuring Full Asset and Debt Disclosure: Our team provides complete financial transparency while protecting you from potential penalties for hidden assets. We can use discovery tools, financial experts, and forensic accountants if necessary.
• Emotion-Free, Objective Legal Counsel: We provide rational, experienced guidance, helping you avoid emotionally driven decisions and focus on the long-term outcomes that matter most.
• Thorough Financial Planning: We analyze the financial implications of every decision, helping you plan for future needs like healthcare, taxes, retirement, and alimony, so you’re not left in a vulnerable position after the divorce.
• Skilled Negotiation and Mediation: We advocate for fair settlements during negotiation or mediation, saving you time, money, and stress. If negotiations break down, we’re fully prepared to fight for your interests in court.
• Managing Legal Paperwork and Court Procedures: Divorce involves strict deadlines, legal filings, and court appearances. We handle all aspects of the process to ensure accuracy, compliance, and the best possible outcome for you.

Local Resources and Support During Divorce in Tampa

Divorce can be overwhelming, but Tampa offers a variety of resources to support individuals throughout the process. The Hillsborough County Family Law Division is a key resource, providing essential services such as self-help centers and free workshops that cover the basics of divorce and custody proceedings. Utilizing these resources can help you better understand the legal framework and what to expect during each stage of the divorce.

Moreover, local support groups and counseling services play a crucial role in aiding individuals' emotional well-being during a divorce. Organizations like the Crisis Center of Tampa Bay offer counseling sessions and support groups, which can be invaluable for emotional healing. These community resources provide a supportive environment for individuals to express their feelings and navigate the emotional turbulence that often accompanies divorce. Engaging with these services can strengthen your resilience and assist you in building a new chapter post-divorce.

FAQs About Divorce in Tampa

What Is the Typical Timeline for a Divorce Attorney in Tampa?

The timeline for a divorce in Tampa can vary significantly based on several factors, including the complexity of the case and whether the divorce is contested or uncontested. An uncontested divorce, where both parties agree on the terms, can be completed in a few months. However, if you have a contested divorce involving disagreements over significant issues like asset division or child custody, the process may take much longer, often over a year, as it may involve trials and multiple negotiations.

What Should I Expect from a Divorce Mediation Process?

Divorce mediation is a structured process where a neutral third party helps the divorcing couple reach an agreement on major issues. The objective is to facilitate communication and negotiation to avoid lengthy litigation. Mediation can cover topics like asset distribution, child custody, and support arrangements. It's a confidential process and often a more amicable solution, appealing to those wishing to maintain a cordial relationship post-divorce, particularly when children are involved.

Can I Modify Child Support or Alimony After Divorce?

Yes, modifications to child support or alimony can be made post-divorce in Florida if there is a substantial change in circumstances. This could include significant alterations in income, employment status, or living arrangements. To initiate a modification, the requesting party must demonstrate the change in circumstances to the court compellingly and accurately. Seeking legal guidance is advisable to navigate the complexities of modification requests effectively.

How Does Tampa Court Decide Custody and Parental Responsibility?

In Tampa, as in the rest of Florida, courts determine child custody and parental responsibility based on the best interests of the child. This includes evaluating factors such as the ethical fitness of the parents, the child’s school and community history, and the ability of each parent to provide a stable environment. Courts aim to foster a relationship that supports the child's development, often leading to shared parenting arrangements where feasible.

Contact Givens Law Group today at (813) 328-6159 if you are considering divorce in Florida.