Does the Reason for My Divorce Matter in Florida?

Many spouses don’t want to think about the past when approaching divorce. What’s done is done, and there’s no sense in replaying all the various moments that led to the breakdown of your relationship. Regardless of your age, regardless of your financial situation, you have a lot to look forward to in your post-divorce life. With that said, does the main reason for your breakup matter during this legal process? This is something you might want to explore with an experienced divorce lawyer in Orlando.

Florida Is a No-Fault State 

Like all U.S. states, Florida follows a variation of the “no-fault” system during divorce. In other words, you can divorce your spouse without having a valid reason. All either spouse needs to do is tell the court that the relationship isn’t working out. In addition, there is no “separation period” before divorce in the Sunshine State. While some other jurisdictions require you to live apart from your ex for a certain amount of time, Florida lets you proceed with a divorce immediately.

The Reason for Your Divorce Could Still Be Important 

With that said, a no-fault system doesn’t make the reason for your divorce unimportant. In fact, it makes sense to speak with your lawyer about the specific things that led to the breakdown of the marriage. You can discuss these subjects with your lawyer without worrying, as all communications are bound by “attorney-client privilege.” This means that your lawyer will lose their license if they tell anyone what you say during private consultations.

The Role of Domestic Violence and Abuse in a Divorce 

If your marriage broke down because your ex engaged in marital misconduct, you should raise these issues with your lawyer. Perhaps your spouse was violent to you or your children. Maybe they neglected or endangered your young ones. Even something as “simple” as beating the family dog could have serious implications during your divorce. If you can establish that your spouse is guilty of this misconduct, you could experience certain advantages during divorce.

These advantages may be particularly notable during custody battles. It makes sense to protect a child’s best interests by keeping them away from violent individuals. Family courts agree with these sentiments, and they may grant you sole custody if you prove your ex was violent, abusive, or neglectful during the marriage. Certain types of financial misconduct may also become relevant during divorce.

Can a Divorce Lawyer in Orlando Help? 

A divorce lawyer in Orlando can help in many ways. Aside from guiding you through the legal process ahead, your attorney can also listen carefully to the details of your situation without judgment. All meetings and consultations with your lawyer are completely confidential, and you’re free to talk about what led to the end of your relationship. The specific thing that led to your divorce could be more important than you realize – even in a “no-fault” state like Florida. Continue this conversation with Steve Marsee, P.A. today.

Sources: 

leg.state.fl.us/statutes/index.cfm?App_mode=Display_Statute&URL=0000-0099/0061/Sections/0061.13.html

leg.state.fl.us/Statutes/index.cfm?App_mode=Display_Statute&URL=0000-0099/0061/Sections/0061.075.html