When Divorce Gets Complicated, We Help You Take Control
At Florida Women’s Law Group, we exclusively represent women, guiding them through the high-conflict terrain of contested divorce. Our contested divorce lawyers in Jacksonville care about safeguarding your children, your finances, and your peace of mind during what can be one of life’s most disruptive chapters. Our mission is to help you reclaim stability and emerge from this process protected and empowered.
Contested Divorce Without Children
1. Filing the Petition
- The process begins when one spouse (the petitioner) files a Petition for Dissolution of Marriage with the circuit court
- The petition outlines basic facts about the marriage and the relief sought, such as specific requests for asset distribution or spousal support
2. Serving the Other Spouse
- The responding spouse must be formally served with the petition
- They then have 20 days to file an answer, either agreeing or contesting the terms
- If they disagree with any part, the case is officially contested
3. Mandatory Financial Disclosure
- Both parties are legally required to exchange financial affidavits within 45 days of service under Florida Family Law Rules of Procedure 12.285
- This disclosure includes income, debts, expenses, and assets
4. Temporary Relief (if needed)
5. Mediation and Negotiation
- Florida law generally requires mediation before proceeding to trial to encourage an out-of-court resolution
- A neutral mediator helps both parties attempt to reach an agreement on contested terms
6. Trial
- If no agreement is reached, the case moves to trial
- A judge reviews all evidence and testimony to decide unresolved matters like property division and alimony
- Final decisions are binding and outlined in a Final Judgment of Dissolution of Marriage
Contested Divorce With Children
Contested divorces involving children add a deeply emotional and complex layer to the legal process. When parents disagree about custody (time-sharing), parental responsibility, or child support, the court must prioritize the child’s best interests under Florida Statutes § 61.13.
1. Filing for Divorce
If custody or support is in dispute, the petition must detail proposed parenting arrangements and financial support requests
2. Financial and Parenting Disclosures
- Both parties must exchange financial affidavits
- In addition, a Parenting Plan is required to establish time-sharing schedules, decision-making
- authority, and child-related logistics
3. Court-Ordered Parenting Class
- Florida law requires both parents to complete a Parent Education and Family Stabilization Course before final judgment in cases involving minor children
4. Temporary Orders
- Courts may issue temporary orders for child custody and support to provide structure during the litigation process
- These orders help prevent disruption in the child’s routine and well-being
5. Mediation
- Parents are typically required to attend mediation in an effort to resolve custody and financial issues outside of court
- The court encourages collaborative problem-solving that puts the child’s best interests first
6. Trial
If no agreement is reached, a judge makes the final decision based on the evidence
Factors considered include each parent’s involvement, ability to provide stability, and the child’s emotional and developmental needs
What’s at Stake in a Contested Divorce in Jacksonville? Key Issues That Often Require Court Intervention
- Property Division: Florida follows the principle of equitable distribution, meaning assets and debts acquired during the marriage must be divided fairly, not necessarily equally.
- Alimony: The court considers factors like the length of the marriage, each party’s financial need and ability, and the standard of living established during the marriage. See § 61.08, Fla. Stat..
- Child Support: Based on the Florida Child Support Guidelines, courts calculate payments based on both parents’ incomes, the number of children, and the time-sharing arrangement.
- Parental Responsibility & Time-Sharing: Courts aim for shared parental responsibility when possible, but may award sole responsibility if necessary to protect the child.
What If Negotiations Fail?
Jacksonville's Trusted Legal Ally for Women in Divorce
Florida Women’s Law Group contested divorce attorneys in Jacksonville live and breathe this work every day. We provide strategic representation rooted in compassion and credibility backed by decades of combined experience in complex divorce litigation and advanced mediation and trial advocacy training.
If you’re facing the uncertainty of a contested divorce, know that you’re not alone—and you’re not powerless. You have a team of experienced attorneys ready to stand with you, protect your rights, and guide you toward a lasting resolution.
Trust Florida’s only family law firm for women, by women. Contact us today to book your consultation.
