A Divorce Attorney With Trusted Credentials And Experience

Choosing the right attorney is one of the most important divorce decisions you’ll need to make. This is a vulnerable time with a lot at stake. Therefore, you need to feel confident that you can be open and honest with your attorney and trust that she can help you.

As a board-certified specialist in marital and family law, I have the skills, knowledge and resources to advocate for you in all aspects of your divorce effectively. I also have considerable accounting experience, including previously working for two major accounting firms. I now put that knowledge to work helping clients with divorce-related financial issues, including complex property division and complex issues regarding support.

In short, I know that I can help you. But I want you to be sure of your decision as well. That’s why I stress the importance of an initial consultation, which allows us to get to know one another and to discuss the specifics of your case.

Getting The Process Started

When we meet for the first time, I want to hear your story and your goals. I will then answer any questions you have and explain the law relevant to your situation. Finally, we will develop a strategy to complete the process in an efficient and cost-effective manner. Through it all, I will be sensitive and respectful to your emotional struggles.

Below, I’ve provided answers to common questions you may have about divorce.

How Long Does A Divorce Take In Florida?

The time it takes from filing the Petition for Dissolution of Marriage until the entry of the Final Judgment of Dissolution of Marriage is completely dependent on each person’s unique circumstances. If the divorce is uncontested, the process can be completed in four to five weeks. If it is a highly contested divorce, it can take significantly longer.

How is property divided in divorce?

Florida Law requires the equitable distribution of the marital assets and marital liabilities. You can read more on my division of property page.

What Are The Residency Requirements For Divorce In Florida?

Only one spouse needs to be a Florida resident, and they need to be a resident for at least the immediate six months prior to filing. Physically living in Florida during the required six months is the easiest way to be considered a resident. However, if you claim residency, but live outside the state at any time during the six months prior to the Petition for Dissolution of Marriage filing, a judge may need to determine if you qualify.

What Are The Grounds For Divorce In Florida?

Florida is a no-fault divorce state and there is no need to prove fault. One party just needs to allege that the marriage is irretrievably broken.

Will I Have To Go To Court?

If there are contested issues that must be decided by a judge, then you will have to go to court. If you are able to resolve your case without court intervention, you will not have to go to Court. The more negotiating you can do and avoid the courtroom, the faster, less expensive and less contentious the process is likely to be.

Contact Me Today To Discuss Your Divorce Needs

Sockel-Stone Family Law is based in Miami-Dade County, and I serve clients throughout the surrounding areas. To tell me your story and get answers to your questions during an initial consultation, call me at 786-598-8849 or fill out my online contact form.