Frequently Asked Questions About Divorce & Family Law in Fort Lauderdale
Whether you are considering an uncontested divorce, facing a contested custody dispute, or navigating a complex high-asset case, an experienced Fort Lauderdale divorce lawyer can help you understand the divorce process, protect your interests, and move forward with confidence. Below are answers to the questions people ask most about divorce and family law in Florida.
What are the requirements to file for divorce in Florida?
To file for divorce in Florida, at least one spouse must have lived in the state for at least six months before filing. Florida is a no-fault divorce state (see the Florida Courts self-help resources), so you do not need to prove wrongdoing — you only need to state that the marriage is irretrievably broken. You will complete the required Florida divorce forms and financial paperwork, then file the divorce petition with the court. If you and your spouse agree on everything, you may qualify for an uncontested divorce. Mark E. Sawicki, P.A. helps you understand what documents are needed and how to protect your interests from the very start.
How do I start a divorce in Fort Lauderdale?
A divorce usually begins by filing a petition for dissolution of marriage — in Fort Lauderdale, that typically means filing your complaint through Broward County. The petition may address property division, alimony, child support, and parenting plans and time-sharing. Before filing, it helps to get early legal guidance so you understand your options. Mark guides you through the first steps and builds a strategy around your family, finances, and goals.
How long does a divorce usually take in Florida?
The timeline depends largely on whether the divorce is contested. An uncontested divorce, where both spouses agree on all terms, can be a relatively quick divorce of just a few months, while disputes over children, property, or support can extend it considerably. Many couples shorten the process through divorce mediation. Delays often arise around financial disclosures, parenting plans, or settlement terms. Mark helps clients stay organized and work toward efficient solutions — because the goal isn’t only to finish quickly, but to reach a fair, clear, and enforceable outcome.
Is Florida a 50/50 custody state?
Florida uses the terms “time-sharing” and “parental responsibility” rather than traditional custody language, and courts decide parenting arrangements based on the best interests of the child. The law favors frequent and continuing contact with both parents when safe and appropriate, but equal time-sharing is not automatic. A court weighs each parent’s ability to provide stability, cooperate, and meet the child’s needs — and disagreements can sometimes be resolved through custody mediation. Mark helps parents build parenting plans that are realistic, legally sound, and centered on their child’s well-being.
How is child support calculated in Florida?
Child support in Florida follows state guidelines that consider both parents’ incomes, the number of children, health insurance and childcare costs, and the time each parent spends with the children under the parenting plan. Although the formula looks straightforward, disputes often arise over income, self-employment, bonuses, underemployment, or daycare and medical expenses — and it helps to understand when child support ends. Sawicki Law makes sure the figures used in your calculation are accurate and complete, so the result reflects your true situation.
How are assets and debts divided in a Florida divorce?
Florida follows equitable distribution, meaning marital assets and debts are divided fairly — which does not always mean exactly 50/50. Courts weigh the length of the marriage, each spouse’s finances, contributions to the marriage, the marital home, business ownership, and retirement accounts. This becomes especially important in a high-asset divorce, where accurate property valuation matters. Mark helps clients distinguish marital versus non-marital property and pursue a fair division.
What is a wife entitled to in a Florida divorce?
Florida law does not award rights based on gender — neither spouse is automatically entitled to a fixed share. Instead, the court applies equitable distribution to divide marital property and debts fairly (see how marital property division works), and may award alimony based on one spouse’s need and the other’s ability to pay. Depending on the circumstances, a wife (or husband) may receive a share of marital assets, alimony, child support, or a combination. Mark can review your situation and explain what you may reasonably expect.
Will I have to pay alimony in a Florida divorce?
Alimony is not automatic in Florida. A court considers whether one spouse has a genuine financial need and whether the other has the ability to pay — you can see how alimony is calculated and the four types of alimony available. Recent alimony reform has changed how longer-term support works. Because alimony affects long-term financial security, it is often one of the most stressful parts of a divorce. Whether you are seeking support or concerned about paying it, Mark advocates for a fair outcome — often reached through a negotiated divorce settlement.
How much does a divorce lawyer cost in Fort Lauderdale?
The cost of a divorce depends on the complexity of your case. An uncontested divorce is generally far less expensive than a contested case involving children, alimony, property disputes, or high-value assets. Rather than focusing only on the lowest price, it is worth understanding the level of guidance and protection your situation requires. Sawicki Law emphasizes clear communication and transparent, no-hidden-fee billing, and offers a free 20-minute consultation so you know what to expect before moving forward.
What should I look for in a Fort Lauderdale divorce lawyer?
Look for a lawyer who understands Florida family law, communicates clearly, and has real experience with the issues in your case — whether that is parenting plans, child support, alimony, property division, high-asset divorce, or LGBTQIA+ family law. Clients choose your Fort Lauderdale family lawyer, Mark E. Sawicki, P.A., because they work directly with Mark and receive personalized guidance rather than feeling like just another case number, backed by 15+ years of experience and strong client reviews.
Talk to a Fort Lauderdale Divorce Lawyer Today
Every divorce and family law matter is different. Schedule a free 20-minute consultation with Mark E. Sawicki to talk through your situation, understand your options, and take your next step with confidence — with direct attorney access and no hidden fees.