When you’re facing a divorce, choosing the right attorney can make all the difference in protecting your future. Divorce is more than just the end of a marriage—it’s a major life transition that can impact your family, finances, and emotional well-being. If you live in Bradenton or the surrounding Sarasota-Manatee area, finding an experienced and compassionate divorce attorney who understands Florida law is essential to navigating this process with confidence.
Understanding Florida Divorce Law
Under Chapter 61 of the 2024 Florida Statutes, a divorce—officially called a “dissolution of marriage”—can be granted if the marriage is irretrievably broken or if one spouse has been mentally incapacitated for at least three years. Florida is a no-fault divorce state, meaning you don’t have to prove wrongdoing by your spouse to file.
Nevertheless, the process can vary depending on your specific situation. Some couples find that they can resolve their issues cooperatively—without the need for lengthy litigation—through an uncontested divorce. Others may require more in-depth legal advocacy to resolve disputes regarding property, finances, or time-sharing. A skilled attorney can guide you through either path.
Contested vs. Uncontested Divorce
An uncontested divorce occurs when both spouses agree on all major issues—such as the division of assets, alimony, parenting plans, and child support—before filing for divorce. Because there are no disputes for a judge to decide, uncontested divorces are often faster, less expensive, and less stressful than traditional contested divorces.
However, even in an uncontested case, it’s important to work with an attorney who can:
- Ensure all required documents are completed accurately
- Protect your rights in the written settlement agreement
- Confirm the final order fully reflects your intentions
- Help avoid mistakes that could delay or complicate the process
At McNary Law, we frequently assist clients seeking uncontested divorces throughout Bradenton, Sarasota, and Lakewood Ranch. Our goal is to make the process as smooth and efficient as possible while ensuring all legal details are handled correctly from start to finish.
What to Look for in a Divorce Attorney
When selecting a divorce attorney in Bradenton, consider the following key qualities:
- Experience in Florida Family Law
Every state has different laws regarding divorce. An attorney familiar with the Florida Family Law Rules of Procedure and local court practices in Manatee and Sarasota Counties will know how to effectively navigate your case. - Compassion and Communication
Divorce is deeply personal. You need an attorney who not only knows the law but also listens to your concerns and communicates clearly. At McNary Law, we take a compassionate and client-centered approach, keeping you informed and supported every step of the way. - Strategic and Practical Guidance
Your attorney should help you focus on outcomes that align with your goals—whether that’s reaching a peaceful agreement through negotiation or protecting your interests in court. - Proven Mediation and Negotiation Skills
Many Florida divorces are resolved outside the courtroom. Choosing an attorney who is also a trained mediator can save time, stress, and cost by fostering constructive discussions and minimizing conflict.
Common Divorce Issues in Florida
A qualified divorce lawyer can help you navigate several important aspects of divorce, including:
Property Division (Equitable Distribution)
Florida law presumes that marital assets and liabilities should be divided equally (50/50). This is a rebuttable presumption, meaning the court can order an unequal distribution if justified by specific statutory factors.
Alimony (Spousal Support)
Under Florida Statute §61.08, Florida law now includes guidelines for calculating alimony, but the threshold question remains whether one spouse has a need for support and the other has the ability to pay. If both are established, the court may award alimony based on the length of the marriage, the standard of living during the marriage, and each party’s financial resources, earning capacity, and other statutory factors. As of 2023, Florida law provides new guidelines for calculating durational alimony. Different forms of support—such as bridge-the-gap, rehabilitative, and durational alimony—may apply depending on the circumstances.
Parenting Plans and Time-Sharing
When children are involved, the court requires a parenting plan that outlines how decisions will be made and how time will be divided between parents. The court’s primary consideration is always the best interests of the child.
Child Support
Florida uses statutory guidelines under F.S. §61.30 to calculate child support. The formula primarily considers both parents’ net incomes, the percentage of overnight timesharing each parent exercises, and additional expenses such as health insurance and daycare costs.
Local Advantage: Why Bradenton Families Choose McNary Law
McNary Law is based in Bradenton and proudly serves families throughout Manatee and Sarasota Counties. Founding attorney Libby McNary has practiced law since 2007 and has been recognized as one of Bradenton’s Best and SRQ Magazine’s Elite Attorneys, a testament to her dedication and excellence in family law.
Our team embodies our firm’s core values of honesty, integrity, compassion, accountability, and continuous self-improvement. We take the time to understand each client’s unique situation, offering personalized legal strategies to achieve fair and sustainable outcomes.
Many of our services can also be handled remotely, offering convenience and accessibility from anywhere in Florida.
Schedule a Consultation
Whether your divorce is contested or uncontested, McNary Law provides the guidance and advocacy you need to move forward with clarity and confidence.
Click here to send us a message or call us today at 941-345-1662 to schedule a consultation.