FAQ’s

What is family law ?

Family law deals with marriage, divorce, alimony/spousal support, child custody, time-sharing, child support, paternity, and adoption. Attorneys with experience in family law issues are known as family lawyers.

What is divorce ?

Divorce is defined as the legal dissolution of a marriage. Issues associated with divorce include alimony, child custody, and child support. If you are looking for help with your divorce, choosing an experienced family lawyer is the first step.

What is alimony/spousal support ?

Alimony is payment from one spouse to another for support after a divorce or during a separation. There are various types of alimony: permanent alimony, temporary alimony, bridge-the-gap, durational and lump sum alimony.

What is child custody ?

Florida uses the term Parental Responsibility to describe legal custody. The term Time-Sharing determines when the child will be with each parent. Although many people use the term “visitation” it really has no legal meaning under Florida Law. If you are involved in a child custody matter, you may want to seek the advice of a family law attorney.

What is child support ?

Child support is payment from one spouse to another for support of the children after a divorce or separation. Child support payments are determined by several factors, including the needs of the children, incomes of the parents, work related daycare costs, health insurance costs for the children and other factors.

What is paternity ?

Under Florida Law, when two people who are not married have a child together, an action for Paternity will be filed to legally establish the natural and biological father. Once paternity is established, the father is on equal footing with regard to custody and time-sharing.

Do I need a family lawyer ?

The decision to hire a family lawyer is a personal one. However, since many of the issues surrounding divorce, child custody, child support, alimony/spousal support, and property division are complicated, it may be helpful to have the advice of an experienced family law attorney.