Boynton Beach & South Florida
Probate Services by Dixon Law Firm
Navigating the Probate Process with Compassion and Expertise in South Florida
The probate process can be complex, emotional, and time-consuming. At Dixon Law Firm, we understand the challenges families face after losing a loved one, and we are here to guide you every step of the way.
Led by Alicia Dixon, one of South Florida’s most trusted and experienced estate planning lawyers, our firm is dedicated to providing compassionate, efficient, and reliable probate services.
Navigating Probate
What Is Probate?
Probate is the legal process of administering a deceased person's estate. This includes validating their will, settling outstanding debts, and distributing assets to beneficiaries. Whether or not a will exists, probate ensures that the decedent’s wishes are carried out and that their estate is handled in accordance with Florida law.
Why You Need an Experienced Probate Lawyer
Navigating the probate process without legal guidance can be overwhelming. An experienced probate lawyer provides essential support by:
Alicia Dixon and the team at Dixon Law Firm bring years of experience to every probate case, offering customized solutions that meet your family’s needs.
Peace of Mind for Your Family
Types of Probate in Florida
Florida law provides for several types of probate proceedings, each suited to different circumstances. Dixon Law Firm helps clients determine the best option for their situation.
- Formal Administration: Formal administration is the most common type of probate in Florida and is required for larger estates or those with significant complexity. This process involves:
- Filing a petition with the court to appoint a personal representative.
- Identifying and valuing the decedent’s assets.
- Settling debts and taxes.
- Distributing remaining assets to beneficiaries.
- Summary Administration: Summary administration is a simplified probate process available for estates valued at $75,000 or less (excluding exempt assets) or when the decedent has been deceased for more than two years. This expedited process can save time and reduce legal expenses.
- Disposition of Personal Property Without Administration:
For very small estates where no formal administration is necessary, certain assets may be transferred directly to heirs. Dixon Law Firm can advise on eligibility and handle the necessary paperwork.
Secure Your Future
Key Steps in the Probate Process
- Filing the Initial Petition: The probate process begins with filing a petition to open the estate and appoint a personal representative (executor). Our firm ensures all required documents are prepared and submitted accurately.
- Identifying and Valuing Assets: A comprehensive inventory of the decedent’s assets must be completed. This includes real estate, bank accounts, investments, and personal property. We work diligently to ensure all assets are identified and accurately valued.
- Settling Debts and Taxes: Before assets can be distributed, outstanding debts, taxes, and final expenses must be paid. Our team ensures these obligations are met efficiently, protecting the estate from unnecessary complications.
- Distributing Assets to Beneficiaries: Once all debts and taxes are settled, the remaining assets are distributed to beneficiaries according to the will or Florida’s intestacy laws if no will exists. We oversee this process to ensure it is completed smoothly and fairly.
Common Challenges in Probate
Probate can present various challenges, including:
Dixon Law Firm has extensive experience resolving these challenges efficiently, minimizing stress for our clients.
Personalized Guidance
The Dixon Law Firm Difference in Probate Services
What sets Dixon Law Firm apart is our unwavering commitment to excellence and client satisfaction. We provide:
- Compassionate Guidance: We understand the emotional toll of losing a loved one and approach each case with sensitivity and care.
- Tailored Solutions: No two probate cases are the same. We develop personalized strategies to address your family’s unique needs.
- Expert Knowledge: Alicia Dixon’s deep understanding of Florida probate law ensures your case is handled with the utmost professionalism.
- Efficient Service: Our team works diligently to streamline the probate process, saving time and reducing costs.
- Open Communication: We keep you informed throughout the entire probate process, providing regular updates and answering your questions promptly.
Secure Your Future
Understanding the Role of the Personal Representative
The personal representative (executor) plays a crucial role in probate. They are responsible for managing the estate, paying debts, filing taxes, and distributing assets. We guide the personal representative through their duties, ensuring they understand their legal obligations and responsibilities.
4 Clear Steps
Minimizing Taxes and Expenses During Probate
We are committed to protecting your inheritance. Our team explores all available options to minimize estate taxes and expenses during probate, ensuring that beneficiaries receive the maximum benefit from the estate.
Safeguard Your Wishes
Probate Litigation and Dispute Resolution
In some cases, disputes may arise during probate, such as will contests or disagreements among beneficiaries. Our experienced team is prepared to handle probate litigation, advocating for your rights and seeking a fair resolution.
Avoiding Probate Through Estate Planning
While probate is often necessary, proactive estate planning can help minimize its impact. Dixon Law Firm offers comprehensive estate planning services to help clients avoid or simplify probate. Strategies include:
Contact Dixon Law Firm for Expert Probate Services
Whether you are navigating probate after the loss of a loved one or looking to create an estate plan to avoid probate, Dixon Law Firm is here to help. Alicia Dixon and her dedicated team provide the expertise, compassion, and personalized attention you need to achieve peace of mind.
Contact us today to schedule a consultation and learn how we can assist with your probate needs. Let us help you protect your family’s legacy and ensure your loved ones are cared for in the years to come.
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An Alternative Path to a Peaceful Resolution The word "divorce" often brings to mind images of contentious courtroom battles, heated arguments, and costly legal fees. However, for many couples in South Florida, there is a more peaceful and cost-effective alternative: divorce mediation. This process offers a way for divorcing spouses to work together, with the guidance of a neutral third party, to resolve their family law disputes amicably. At The Dixon Law Firm, we believe in empowering our clients to make informed decisions about their future, and mediation is a powerful tool for achieving a positive outcome. This blog post will explore the ins and outs of divorce mediation in South Florida, shedding light on its benefits and what to expect from the process. What is Divorce Mediation? Divorce mediation is a confidential and voluntary process in which a neutral third-party mediator helps a divorcing couple negotiate and settle their disputes. Unlike a judge who makes binding decisions, the mediator’s role is to facilitate communication, identify areas of agreement, and help the parties find mutually acceptable solutions. The process is entirely centered on the parties' ability to reach a resolution on their own terms. It is not an adversarial process; instead, it promotes cooperation and open dialogue. In Florida, courts often mandate mediation as a prerequisite to a final hearing or trial, recognizing its effectiveness in resolving disagreements without the need for litigation. The Key Issues Addressed in Mediation Nearly every aspect of a divorce can be addressed and resolved through mediation. The topics discussed are typically the same as those that would be litigated in court, but with the added flexibility to create tailored solutions. Equitable Distribution of Assets and Liabilities: One of the most significant components of any divorce is the division of marital property and debt. Through mediation, spouses can work together to determine a fair way to divide assets like the marital home, bank accounts, investments, and retirement funds, as well as liabilities such as credit card debt and mortgages. The collaborative nature of mediation allows for creative solutions that a judge might not be able to order. Alimony (Spousal Support): When one spouse has a financial need and the other has the ability to pay, alimony may be a point of contention. Mediation provides a forum for a detailed discussion about the financial circumstances of both parties, allowing them to agree on the amount, duration, and type of alimony that makes the most sense for their unique situation. Parental Responsibility and Time-Sharing (Child Custody): For parents, the most critical part of a divorce is often the creation of a parenting plan. Mediation allows parents to craft a plan that reflects their children's best interests while also accommodating their individual schedules and needs. The parents have the autonomy to decide on issues such as a time-sharing schedule, holiday arrangements, and who will be responsible for major decisions regarding the children's education and healthcare. Child Support: While child support is typically calculated using Florida's statutory guidelines, mediation can help parents come to an agreement on the specific details of these payments. It also allows for open discussion about who will cover other child-related expenses, such as extracurricular activities, private school tuition, or college savings. The Benefits of Mediation Over Litigation Choosing mediation over traditional litigation offers a number of compelling advantages that can make the divorce process less painful and more productive. Cost-Effective: Litigation can be extremely expensive, with legal fees, court costs, and other expenses adding up quickly. Mediation is generally far less costly, as the parties are only paying for the mediator's time and their own attorney’s preparation and attendance at the mediation session, not for prolonged court hearings and trials. Faster Resolution: The court system can be slow and unpredictable. Mediation, in contrast, can often resolve all issues in a single day or over a few sessions, leading to a much faster finalization of the divorce. Confidentiality: Court proceedings are a matter of public record. Mediation is a private and confidential process. The details of your family life and finances remain between you, your spouse, your attorneys, and the mediator, providing a level of privacy that litigation cannot. Greater Control and Flexibility: In litigation, a judge makes the final decisions, and both parties must abide by them, regardless of whether they agree. In mediation, the parties themselves are the decision-makers. This empowers them to create a unique and flexible agreement that addresses their specific needs and goals. Improved Communication and Reduced Conflict: Mediation encourages cooperative problem-solving rather than adversarial tactics. This can help improve communication between the parties, which is particularly important for co-parenting after the divorce is finalized. The Role of Attorneys in Mediation While the mediator is a neutral party, it is still highly recommended that each spouse have their own attorney. The attorneys' role in mediation is not to argue, but to advise their clients, ensure they understand their rights, and help them negotiate effectively. An attorney can also draft the final settlement agreement, which, once signed by both parties, can be submitted to the court for approval. Having an attorney by your side ensures that your interests are protected and that the agreement you reach is legally sound and enforceable. Conclusion: A Path to a Brighter Future Divorce mediation in South Florida offers a powerful alternative to the traditional court system. It is a process that is designed to be efficient, confidential, and respectful, allowing couples to move forward with their lives with dignity and a sense of control over their own future. For many, it is the best way to resolve family law disputes amicably and peacefully. At The Dixon Law Firm, we believe that an amicable resolution is often the best resolution. Alicia Dixon, Founding Attorney at The Dixon Law Firm, is One of Boynton Beach Florida's Top Family and Divorce Attorneys. She is dedicated to providing results for you. If you are considering divorce mediation or have questions about the process, we invite you to contact us to learn how we can help you achieve a favorable and peaceful resolution to your family law matter. Disclaimer: This blog post is intended for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice or create an attorney-client relationship. 1 Paternity and family laws in Florida are complex and fact-specific. You should consult with a qualified Florida family law attorney regarding your particular situation. Contact The Dixon Law Firm for personalized legal counsel.
A Guide to Navigating Disputed Dissolution of Marriage Divorce is a significant life event, and while many couples are able to reach an amicable agreement through negotiation or mediation, others find themselves in a contested divorce. A contested divorce occurs when the parties cannot agree on one or more key issues, leading to the necessity of court intervention. In Florida, navigating a contested divorce requires a thorough understanding of the legal process, the specific issues at play, and the potential impact on your future. This blog post, presented by The Dixon Law Firm, will provide a comprehensive overview of contested divorce in Florida, offering clarity and guidance during this challenging process. The Foundation of a Florida Divorce: The "No-Fault" Standard Even in a contested divorce, Florida remains a "no-fault" state. This means the legal grounds for divorce are simple: the marriage is "irretrievably broken." Unlike other states that require proof of fault (such as adultery or abandonment), Florida law focuses on the present state of the marriage. While the no-fault standard simplifies the initial filing, it is important to remember that the contentious issues in a contested divorce are rarely about the "why" of the marriage's end, but rather the "how" of its resolution. The Key Issues in a Contested Divorce A divorce becomes contested when spouses disagree on one or more of the following critical areas. The level of contention can range from minor disagreements to highly emotional disputes that require extensive legal battles. Equitable Distribution of Marital Assets and Liabilities In Florida, marital assets and liabilities are subject to equitable distribution. This means the court will divide them fairly, but not necessarily equally. Disputes often arise over what constitutes a marital asset, the valuation of specific assets (like a business or real estate), and who is responsible for marital debt. The court considers a variety of factors to determine what is equitable, including the contributions of each spouse to the marriage, the duration of the marriage, and the economic circumstances of each party. It is crucial to have a skilled attorney who can accurately identify, value, and advocate for a fair distribution of all marital property. Alimony (Spousal Support) Alimony is a payment from one spouse to the other to provide financial support after the divorce. A contested divorce may involve disputes over whether alimony should be awarded, the amount of the payments, and the duration of the support. Florida law recognizes different types of alimony, including temporary, bridge-the-gap, rehabilitative, durational, and permanent. The court evaluates factors like the standard of living during the marriage, the length of the marriage, and the financial resources of each party when making a determination. Parental Responsibility and Time-Sharing For divorcing parents, disputes over children are often the most emotionally charged part of a contested divorce. Florida law prioritizes the "best interests of the minor children." The court will establish a parenting plan that addresses two main areas: Parental Responsibility: This refers to the legal authority to make major decisions about the child's life, such as education, healthcare, and religious upbringing. The court presumes that shared parental responsibility is in the child's best interests, but in cases of domestic violence or other serious issues, one parent may be granted sole parental responsibility. Time-Sharing: This is the legal term for what is commonly known as "custody." The parenting plan will outline a schedule for when each parent spends time with the children. A contested divorce can involve disputes over the time-sharing schedule, and the court will consider various factors to create a plan that serves the child's best interests. Child Support Child support is a legal obligation for both parents to financially support their children. The amount of child support is calculated using Florida's child support guidelines, which consider each parent's income, the number of overnights with the children, and expenses like health insurance and childcare. While the guidelines provide a framework, disputes can arise over the accuracy of income calculations or the inclusion of certain expenses, making it a point of contention in a contested divorce. The Contested Divorce Process Navigating a contested divorce involves several stages, each with its own legal complexities. Filing the Petition: The process begins when one spouse files a Petition for Dissolution of Marriage. Service of Process: The other spouse is legally "served" with the petition and has a limited time to respond. Discovery: This is the information-gathering stage where both parties exchange financial documents and other relevant information. Mediation: Florida courts typically require parties to attend mediation to attempt to reach a settlement before a trial. If an agreement is reached, it is submitted to the court. Trial: If mediation fails, the case proceeds to a trial. A judge will hear evidence and arguments from both sides and make the final decisions on all contested issues. The Importance of Legal Representation A contested divorce can be an overwhelming and emotionally draining experience. The legal process is complex, and the outcomes can have a lasting impact on your financial future and your relationship with your children. Attempting to navigate this process without experienced legal counsel is highly discouraged. An attorney specializing in family law can: Provide a clear understanding of your rights and obligations under Florida law. Advocate for your best interests in matters of asset division, alimony, and child-related issues. Guide you through the discovery process, ensuring all necessary financial information is accurately exchanged. Represent you effectively in mediation and, if necessary, at trial. Help you make informed decisions that protect your future. Conclusion A contested divorce in Florida presents a unique set of challenges that require legal expertise and strategic guidance. While the "no-fault" standard simplifies the grounds for dissolution, the contentious issues of asset distribution, alimony, parental responsibility, and child support require careful and skilled navigation. Alicia Dixon, Founding Attorney at The Dixon Law Firm, is One of Boynton Beach Florida's Top Family and Divorce Attorneys. She is dedicated to providing results for you. If you are facing a contested divorce, securing experienced legal representation is the most critical step you can take to protect your rights, your family, and your future. Don't face the complexities of a contested divorce alone; let our expertise guide you. Disclaimer: This blog post is intended for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice or create an attorney-client relationship. 1 Paternity and family laws in Florida are complex and fact-specific. You should consult with a qualified Florida family law attorney regarding your particular situation. Contact The Dixon Law Firm for personalized legal counsel.
Understanding the Foundation of Divorce in Florida Divorce, or the dissolution of marriage, is a significant legal process that brings about fundamental changes in individuals' lives. For those contemplating or facing divorce in Florida, understanding the legal grounds upon which a marriage can be dissolved is paramount. Florida's approach to divorce is distinct in its simplicity, primarily focusing on what is known as "no-fault" divorce. This blog post, presented by The Dixon Law Firm, will delve into the specific legal reasons for dissolving a marriage in Florida, providing clarity and guidance during what can be a challenging time. The No-Fault Standard: The Cornerstone of Florida Divorce Law Unlike many other states that historically required proof of marital misconduct (such as adultery or abandonment) to obtain a divorce, Florida adopted a "no-fault" divorce system. This means that a spouse seeking to end their marriage does not need to prove that the other spouse was responsible for the breakdown of the marriage. This approach simplifies the process and aims to reduce animosity between parties. Irretrievable Breakdown of the Marriage The primary and most common ground for divorce in Florida is the "irretrievable breakdown of the marriage." This simply means that the marriage is beyond repair and there is no reasonable prospect that the parties will reconcile. How it's established: In most cases, if one party testifies under oath that the marriage is irretrievably broken, and the other party does not deny it, the court will generally accept this as sufficient evidence. When there are minor children: If the parties have minor children, or if one party denies that the marriage is irretrievably broken, the court may take additional steps. This could involve ordering the parties to attend counseling, mediation, or another form of dispute resolution to determine if the marriage can be saved. The court's primary concern in such cases is the well-being of the children. If, after these interventions, the court still finds that the marriage is irretrievably broken, the divorce will be granted. Focus on the present: The court's focus is on the current state of the marriage, not on who is to blame for its breakdown. This "no-fault" approach encourages parties to focus on the future and resolution rather than on litigating past grievances. The Exception: Mental Incapacity of One Spouse While the irretrievable breakdown of the marriage is the overwhelmingly dominant ground for divorce in Florida, there is one other specific, albeit rare, legal reason for dissolving a marriage: the mental incapacity of one of the parties. Permanent Mental Incapacity For a divorce to be granted on the grounds of permanent mental incapacity, the following strict conditions must be met: Adjudication of Incapacity: The spouse must have been adjudged incapacitated for a period of at least three years immediately prior to the filing of the petition for dissolution of marriage. This adjudication typically comes from a legal proceeding where a court determines an individual is incapable of managing their affairs. Medical Testimony: The petitioner must provide testimony from at least two physicians, one of whom is a psychiatrist, confirming that the incapacitated spouse's condition is permanent and that there is no reasonable prospect of recovery. Service of Process: Special rules apply to the service of legal documents on an incapacitated spouse, often requiring service on a guardian or legal representative to ensure their rights are protected. Financial Provisions: The court will often consider appropriate financial provisions for the incapacitated spouse, ensuring their continued care and support, even after the dissolution of the marriage. This ground for divorce is highly complex and requires specific evidence and procedural adherence. Beyond the Grounds: What Else Matters in a Florida Divorce While understanding the legal grounds is the first step, a Florida divorce involves much more than just establishing the reason for the dissolution. Once the grounds are met, the court will then address other crucial aspects of the divorce, including: Equitable Distribution of Marital Assets and Liabilities Florida is an equitable distribution state, meaning that marital assets and liabilities (those acquired during the marriage) are divided fairly, though not necessarily equally, between the parties. The court considers various factors to achieve an equitable outcome, such as the contribution of each spouse to the marriage, the economic circumstances of each spouse, and the desirability of retaining the marital home as a residence for minor children. Alimony (Spousal Support) Alimony may be awarded to one spouse by the court if one spouse has a need for support and the other spouse has the ability to pay. Florida law provides for several types of alimony, including temporary, bridge-the-gap, rehabilitative, durational, and permanent alimony, each serving a different purpose and with specific criteria for being awarded. Parental Responsibility and Time-Sharing (Child Custody) For divorcing parents, the well-being of their children is paramount. Florida law focuses on "parental responsibility" (decision-making authority regarding the children) and "time-sharing" (the schedule of when each parent spends time with the children). The court's primary consideration is the best interests of the minor children, and a parenting plan is typically developed to address these issues. Child Support Both parents have a legal obligation to support their minor children. Child support is calculated based on Florida's child support guidelines, which take into account factors such as each parent's income, the number of overnights each child spends with each parent, and expenses like health insurance and childcare. Conclusion: Navigating Your Florida Divorce with Confidence Understanding the grounds for divorce in Florida is the foundational step in navigating the dissolution of a marriage. While the "no-fault" standard simplifies the initial hurdle, the complexities of equitable distribution, alimony, parental responsibility, and child support demand experienced legal guidance. Alicia Dixon, Founding Attorney at The Dixon Law Firm, is One of Boynton Beach Florida's Top Family and Divorce Attorneys. She is dedicated to providing results for you. If you are considering divorce or have questions about the legal reasons for dissolving a marriage in Florida, contacting a skilled family law attorney is crucial. The Dixon Law Firm can provide the comprehensive legal support and strategic advocacy necessary to protect your rights and achieve a favorable outcome during this significant life transition. Don't face the complexities of divorce alone; let our expertise guide you toward a new beginning. Disclaimer: This blog post is intended for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice or create an attorney-client relationship. 1 Paternity and family laws in Florida are complex and fact-specific. You should consult with a qualified Florida family law attorney regarding your particular situation. Contact The Dixon Law Firm for personalized legal counsel.
Ending a marriage is a profound life change, and in the midst of the emotional turmoil, the financial realities can be stark and intimidating. For many individuals in Boynton Beach, Florida, one of the most significant and often contentious aspects of a divorce is the issue of alimony, also known as spousal support. When spouses cannot agree on the terms of their separation, the divorce is considered "contested," and the question of alimony can become a central battleground. This is where understanding Florida's evolving laws and securing experienced legal representation becomes not just an advantage, but a necessity. This comprehensive guide will delve into the complexities of alimony in Florida's contested divorces, with a specific focus on how these matters are handled in the Boynton Beach area. What Makes a Divorce "Contested" in Boynton Beach? A divorce in Florida is classified as contested when the spouses cannot reach an agreement on one or more key issues. While some couples are able to resolve matters amicably in an uncontested divorce, disagreements frequently arise, particularly when it comes to finances. The most common points of contention include: Division of Assets and Debts: How to equitably distribute everything from the marital home to retirement accounts. Parental Responsibility and Timesharing: Creating a custody arrangement and parenting plan that is in the best interests of the children. Child Support: Calculating the appropriate amount of financial support for the children based on state guidelines. Alimony/Spousal Support: Determining if one spouse has a need for financial support and if the other has the ability to pay. When alimony is a point of dispute, it can significantly complicate the divorce proceedings. The emotional weight of the marriage ending, combined with the financial pressures, often leads to prolonged negotiations and, if necessary, litigation. The Landscape of Alimony in Florida: A Shift in the Law It is crucial to understand that Florida's alimony laws have undergone significant changes in recent years, most notably with the passage of Senate Bill 1416 in 2023. This legislation has reshaped the landscape of spousal support, and its effects are profoundly felt in divorce cases today. The most substantial change was the elimination of permanent alimony . Previously, in long-term marriages, a court could order one spouse to pay alimony for the remainder of the recipient's life. This is no longer the case in Florida. The focus has shifted towards providing support for a defined period, with an emphasis on encouraging the receiving spouse to become self-sufficient. Types of Alimony Available in Florida With the elimination of permanent alimony, Florida law now recognizes several distinct types of spousal support, each designed to address a specific need. In a contested divorce, your attorney will advocate for the type of alimony that best suits your circumstances, or argue against an award that is not justified. The primary forms of alimony in Florida are: Temporary Alimony: Also known as alimony pendente lite , this support is awarded while the divorce is pending. Its purpose is to ensure that a financially disadvantaged spouse can cover their living expenses and legal fees during the litigation process. Temporary alimony automatically terminates once the divorce is finalized. Bridge-the-Gap Alimony: This is a short-term form of support designed to assist a spouse with legitimate, identifiable needs as they transition from married to single life. It could be used to secure a new residence, purchase a vehicle, or cover other immediate costs. The duration of bridge-the-gap alimony cannot exceed two years and is generally non-modifiable. Rehabilitative Alimony: This type of alimony is specifically intended to help a spouse become self-supporting. It is awarded when the recipient can present a detailed and viable plan for acquiring education, training, or work experience to re-enter the workforce or improve their earning capacity. Rehabilitative alimony is awarded for a specific period, typically not to exceed five years, and can be modified if there is a substantial change in circumstances or if the recipient fails to follow the rehabilitation plan. Durational Alimony: Following the recent legal changes, durational alimony has become the primary form of longer-term support. It provides economic assistance for a set period, which is determined by the length of the marriage. The amount of durational alimony is based on the recipient's need and the payor's ability to pay, but the length of the award is capped based on the duration of the marriage: Short-term marriage (less than 10 years): Up to 50% of the length of the marriage. Moderate-term marriage (10 to 20 years): Up to 60% of the length of the marriage. Long-term marriage (20 years or more): Up to 75% of the length of the marriage. It's important to note that durational alimony terminates upon the death of either spouse or the remarriage of the recipient. Key Factors a Boynton Beach Court Will Consider in a Contested Alimony Case Unlike child support, there is no precise mathematical formula for calculating alimony in Florida. Instead, a judge in Palm Beach County will weigh a series of statutory factors to determine whether to award alimony and, if so, the type and amount. In a contested divorce, each of these factors can become a point of legal argument and evidence presentation. The key factors include: The standard of living established during the marriage: The court will look at the lifestyle the couple enjoyed to help determine the needs of the requesting spouse. The duration of the marriage: As outlined above, this is a critical factor in determining the potential length of durational alimony. The age and the physical and emotional condition of each party: Health issues or age-related limitations on employability can be significant considerations. The financial resources of each party: This includes both non-marital and marital assets and liabilities distributed during the divorce. The earning capacities, educational levels, vocational skills, and employability of the parties: If a spouse is unemployed or underemployed, the court may consider their potential earning capacity. The contribution of each party to the marriage: This encompasses not only financial contributions but also services rendered in homemaking, childcare, education, and career-building of the other spouse. The responsibilities each party will have with regard to any minor children: The needs of the children can impact a parent's ability to work and earn an income. All sources of income available to either party: This goes beyond salary and includes bonuses, investments, and other income streams. Any other factor necessary to do equity and justice between the parties. The Contested Divorce Process and the Role of a Boynton Beach Alimony Attorney Navigating a contested divorce in Boynton Beach is a formal legal process. When alimony is a central issue, the guidance of a skilled family law attorney is invaluable. The process generally involves: Filing the Petition: One spouse files a Petition for Dissolution of Marriage, stating their requests, including for alimony. The Answer and Counter-Petition: The other spouse has 20 days to file an answer and can also file a counter-petition with their own requests. Discovery: This is the evidence-gathering phase. Attorneys will use legal tools like interrogatories (written questions), requests for production of documents (financial records, bank statements, etc.), and depositions (sworn testimony) to build a clear picture of each spouse's financial situation. This is where a thorough investigation of income, assets, and lifestyle occurs. Mediation: In Florida, mediation is a required step before a case can go to trial. A neutral third-party mediator helps the spouses and their attorneys negotiate a potential settlement. A skilled attorney can effectively advocate for your position during mediation. Trial: If mediation fails, the case will proceed to trial. A judge will hear testimony, review evidence, and make a final binding decision on all contested issues, including alimony. An experienced Boynton Beach divorce attorney plays a critical role at every stage. They will: Educate you on your rights and the current alimony laws. Conduct a thorough financial analysis to establish need and ability to pay. Gather and present compelling evidence to support your position on the statutory alimony factors. Advocate for you forcefully in negotiations and mediation. Represent you in court, presenting a strong and persuasive case to the judge. Whether you are the spouse seeking support to maintain stability and become self-sufficient, or the spouse being asked to pay and needing to ensure the award is fair and justified, having a dedicated legal advocate is the best way to protect your financial future. Ending a marriage is never easy, and when financial support is a point of contention, the process can become even more challenging. The laws surrounding alimony in Florida are specific and have recently changed, making experienced legal guidance more important than ever. If you are facing a contested divorce in Boynton Beach, taking proactive steps to understand your rights and securing the right legal partner can make all the difference in achieving an equitable outcome that allows you to move forward with confidence and security. Disclaimer: This blog post is intended for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice or create an attorney-client relationship. 1 Paternity and family laws in Florida are complex and fact-specific. You should consult with a qualified Florida family law attorney regarding your particular situation. Contact The Dixon Law Firm for personalized legal counsel.
