Divorce

Divorce

Divorce is one of life’s most challenging transitions. It impacts your family, finances, and future. At McNary Law, our Bradenton and Sarasota divorce attorneys provide compassionate support and strong legal advocacy to guide you through the process. Whether your case is uncontested and straightforward or involves complex disputes over custody, property, or support, we are committed to protecting your rights and helping you move forward with confidence.

Divorce in Florida: What You Need to Know

Florida law refers to divorce as the dissolution of marriage. Because Florida is a no-fault divorce state, you don’t need to prove wrongdoing — only that the marriage is “irretrievably broken.”

During divorce, you and your spouse must resolve issues such as:

  • Property Division (Equitable Distribution) of assets and debts

  • Alimony (Spousal Support)

  • Child Custody and Parenting Plans

  • Child Support

Our attorneys explain your options and build a strategy that protects your family and your financial well-being.


Types of Divorce

Uncontested Divorce

If you and your spouse agree on all major issues, an uncontested divorce can save time, money, and stress. Our attorneys prepare and file the necessary paperwork, ensuring your agreement complies with Florida law.

Contested Divorce

When spouses cannot agree on issues like custody, alimony, or property division, the divorce becomes contested. These cases may require mediation or trial. We represent you with determination and skill, fighting for a fair outcome in court.

Collaborative Divorce

Collaborative divorce provides an alternative to courtroom battles. Both spouses, with the help of their attorneys, work together to reach a respectful settlement. This process often reduces conflict and keeps decisions in your hands rather than a judge’s.


Property Division (Equitable Distribution)

Dividing marital assets and debts is a key part of divorce. In Florida, the law applies equitable distribution, which means property is divided fairly — though not always equally.

Property division may involve:

  • The marital home and real estate

  • Bank accounts and investments

  • Retirement accounts and pensions

  • Businesses or professional practices

  • Credit card debt, loans, and other liabilities

Courts may consider factors like the length of the marriage, each spouse’s income and contributions, and whether one spouse wasted or concealed marital assets. Our attorneys carefully evaluate your financial circumstances to protect your interests and secure a fair resolution.


Alimony (Spousal Support)

Florida recognizes several types of alimony, also known as spousal support. Recent reforms eliminated permanent alimony, but courts may award:

  • Bridge-the-gap alimony to assist with short-term financial needs

  • Rehabilitative alimony to help a spouse gain education or training

  • Durational alimony for a set period based on the length of the marriage

Courts consider factors such as:

  • Marriage length

  • Each spouse’s income and earning ability

  • Contributions to the marriage (including childcare and homemaking)

  • The standard of living during the marriage

  • The financial resources of each spouse

We help clients seek fair alimony awards or defend against unfair demands, ensuring financial outcomes that reflect reality.


Divorce and Children

Child Custody & Parenting Plans

Florida courts focus on the best interests of the child. Custody, referred to as time-sharing, is typically shared between parents. Parenting plans outline how time and responsibilities are divided. Our attorneys help parents create parenting plans that protect children’s needs and preserve parental rights.

Child Support

Child support is calculated under Florida’s statutory guidelines, which consider both parents’ incomes, healthcare costs, and time-sharing schedules. We ensure calculations are accurate and represent you in enforcement or modification actions.

Relocation

If a parent wishes to relocate more than 50 miles away with a child, Florida law requires either written agreement from the other parent or court approval. Relocation cases can be complex because they directly affect time-sharing and parenting plans. Our attorneys guide parents through the relocation process, protecting both parental rights and the child’s best interests.


Modifications After Divorce

Circumstances change. Florida law allows modifications to custody, child support, and alimony orders when there has been a substantial change in circumstances. Whether you need to request a modification or oppose one, our attorneys are ready to advocate for you.


Domestic Violence and Divorce

Domestic violence can have serious legal consequences during divorce. Florida law provides protective injunctions (restraining orders) to ensure safety. Evidence of abuse may also influence custody, visitation, and support decisions. Our attorneys move quickly to protect you and your family while guiding you through the legal process.


Why Choose McNary Law?

At McNary Law, we understand that divorce is more than a legal matter — it’s a personal journey. Guided by our core values of honesty, integrity, and compassionate problem-solving, we provide clients with skilled legal advocacy and genuine care.

  • Local experience serving Bradenton and Sarasota families

  • Remote services available for your convenience

  • Strong courtroom representation and effective negotiation strategies

We are dedicated to helping you protect what matters most.


Contact McNary Law Today

If you are considering divorce or have been served with papers, don’t face it alone. Let our Bradenton and Sarasota divorce attorneys stand by your side.

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