Gainesville Divorce Lawyer

Experienced Divorce Attorneys Serving Gainesville, FL

Divorce can be one of the most emotionally and financially challenging experiences of a person’s life. At Leonard Legal, we provide compassionate, results-driven representation to individuals going through divorce in Gainesville and throughout Alachua County. Whether you’re navigating a high-conflict divorce or seeking an amicable settlement, our skilled attorneys are here to protect your rights, ensure your voice is heard, and secure the best possible outcome for you and your family.

Florida’s Divorce Process: What to Expect in Gainesville

In Florida, divorce is legally referred to as the “dissolution of marriage.” To file for divorce, either you or your spouse must have lived in Florida for at least six months prior to filing. Gainesville residents will typically file their divorce petitions in the Alachua County Courthouse, located downtown. Understanding the steps of the divorce process can help you prepare for what lies ahead and make informed decisions about your future.

Steps in the Florida Divorce Process:

Filing the Petition: The divorce process begins when one spouse (the petitioner) files a petition for dissolution of marriage. This document outlines your requests for child custody, alimony, and property division. The other spouse (the respondent) will have an opportunity to respond.
Service of Process: After the petition is filed, the respondent must be formally notified through a process server or the sheriff’s office. If you live in West Gainesville or Archer, our attorneys will guide you through this step to ensure that the service of process is completed properly.
Discovery: Both parties will be required to exchange financial information, including income statements, property holdings, and retirement accounts. This phase is crucial for ensuring that marital assets are divided fairly, whether you have property near Newnans Lake or investments tied to local Gainesville businesses.
Mediation or Settlement Negotiation: Florida courts encourage mediation to help couples resolve disputes without going to trial. Mediation can be especially helpful for resolving child custody and alimony issues.
Final Hearing or Trial: If you and your spouse cannot reach a settlement, your case will proceed to trial, where a judge will make decisions regarding custody, support, and property division. Our attorneys have extensive courtroom experience and will advocate aggressively on your behalf.

Speak With Our Gainesville Divorce Lawyer

Key Issues in a Gainesville Divorce Case

Florida is an equitable distribution state, meaning marital property is divided fairly but not necessarily equally. In addition to property division, child custody, child support, and alimony are major issues that must be resolved during divorce proceedings. Leonard Legal provides experienced legal counsel for each of these matters, ensuring that your rights are fully protected throughout the process.

Here’s what you need to know about these key issues:

Property Division: Florida law requires an equitable distribution of marital property. This includes real estate, vehicles, bank accounts, retirement plans, and other assets acquired during the marriage. For clients in West Hills or University Park, we ensure that all assets, including businesses, homes, and investments, are accounted for and divided fairly.
Child Custody and Time-Sharing: Florida courts prioritize the best interests of the child when determining time-sharing arrangements. Whether you live near Santa Fe College or Downtown Gainesville, we’ll help you secure a custody arrangement that allows you to maintain a meaningful relationship with your child.
Child Support: Child support in Florida is calculated based on both parents’ income, the time-sharing schedule, and the child’s needs. If you’re seeking child support, we’ll ensure that all relevant factors are considered, from healthcare costs to education expenses.
Alimony (Spousal Support): Alimony is often awarded in cases where one spouse earns significantly more than the other. The type and duration of alimony depend on the length of the marriage, the standard of living during the marriage, and each spouse’s financial resources.

Types of Divorce in Florida

In Florida, there are two main types of divorce: contested divorce and uncontested divorce. Understanding the difference between the two can help you determine the best path forward for your case.

Uncontested Divorce: In an uncontested divorce, both spouses agree on all major issues, including property division, child custody, and alimony. This type of divorce is usually faster, less expensive, and less stressful than a contested divorce.
Contested Divorce: A contested divorce occurs when spouses cannot agree on one or more issues, such as child support or property division. These cases often require litigation, and the final decision will be made by a judge. Leonard Legal has extensive experience representing clients in contested divorces across Alachua County.

Our Family Law Services in Gainesville

At Leonard Legal, we provide a full range of family law services for clients throughout Gainesville. In addition to divorce, we also offer:

Child Custody: Our attorneys fight for fair time-sharing arrangements that prioritize your child’s well-being.
Child Support: We ensure that child support arrangements are fair and reflect the financial circumstances of both parents.
Alimony: We represent clients in Gainesville to ensure fair spousal support arrangements, including temporary, durational, and permanent alimony.
Modifications: Life circumstances change, and we help clients modify existing child support, alimony, or custody orders when necessary.
Domestic Violence Injunctions: If you are facing domestic violence, we can help you obtain a restraining order to protect yourself and your children.

Contact Leonard Legal for a Free Divorce Consultation

If you’re facing a divorce, Leonard Legal is here to provide experienced, compassionate legal representation. We’ve helped clients across Gainesville, from Pleasant Street to Magnolia Heights, resolve their divorce cases with confidence. Contact us today for a free consultation to learn more about how we can help you navigate the divorce process and secure the best possible outcome.

Frequently Asked Questions About Divorce in Gainesville

How long does it take to get a divorce in Gainesville?

The timeline for finalizing a divorce depends on whether the divorce is contested or uncontested. An uncontested divorce can take as little as 3-6 months, while a contested divorce can take a year or more, especially if it goes to trial.

Can I change my name during the divorce process?

Yes, you can request to have your name restored to your maiden name as part of the divorce proceedings. Our attorneys can include this in your petition or response.

How is marital debt divided in a divorce?

Just like marital assets, marital debt is also subject to equitable distribution. This includes mortgages, credit card debt, car loans, and other shared financial obligations.

Proven Record of Success

“Could not have asked for a better experience with Leonard Legal. I was in a very tough and unfortunate situation, and I am so grateful that I chose to have Christine represent me. From the very beginning, I was treated with respect and as a priority. Everything was explained very clearly, and my questions were always answered right away. Not only is Christine a great lawyer, she is also very personable which was a tremendous help during the process. Christine truly went above and beyond and I am so thankful. Highly recommend!” – Dierdre Reimold (Client)