Divorce can be one of the most emotionally and financially challenging times in a person’s life. Whether you’re just beginning to consider ending your marriage or you’ve already been served with divorce papers, having a knowledgeable, compassionate divorce attorney by your side is critical.
At McNary Law, we serve Bradenton and Sarasota families with empathy, integrity, and a fierce commitment to protecting what matters most—your future and your family.
Understanding Divorce in Florida
Florida is a “no-fault” divorce state, meaning that neither spouse has to prove wrongdoing to file for divorce. Instead, you must show that the marriage is “irretrievably broken.” While this simplifies the process legally, the decisions involved—custody, support, property division—are rarely simple emotionally or logistically.
Grounds for Divorce
The two legal grounds for divorce in Florida are:
The marriage is irretrievably broken
One of the parties is mentally incapacitated for at least three years
Most cases proceed under the first ground.
How the Divorce Process Works in Bradenton and Sarasota
The general steps of a Florida divorce include:
Filing the Petition – One spouse (the petitioner) files for dissolution of marriage.
Service of Process – The other spouse (the respondent) is served and has 20 days to respond.
Financial Disclosures – Each party must disclose assets, liabilities, income, and expenses.
Mediation – Most counties, including Manatee and Sarasota, require mediation before trial.
Settlement or Trial – If a settlement is reached, a final hearing finalizes the divorce. If not, the case proceeds to trial.
Key Issues in a Florida Divorce
Equitable Distribution
Florida courts divide marital property equitably, which doesn’t always mean equally. The court considers:
Length of the marriage
Contributions to the marriage (financial and non-financial)
Economic circumstances of each spouse
Interruption of careers or education
McNary Law helps clients pursue fair resolutions, especially in complex cases involving businesses, retirement accounts, and real estate.
Alimony
Florida’s alimony laws were recently overhauled with the passage of Senate Bill 1416, which eliminated permanent alimony and introduced clearer guidelines for durational, rehabilitative, and bridge-the-gap alimony. The court now weighs factors like the length of the marriage, financial need, and ability to pay.
Learn more about how alimony is determined ➝
Parenting Plans and Child Custody
Florida law focuses on the best interests of the child, not on automatically awarding custody to either parent. Parenting plans outline time-sharing and decision-making responsibilities. McNary Law works to protect your parental rights while fostering stability for your children.
Explore our child custody services ➝
Child Support
Child support is determined by a formula based on both parents’ incomes, time-sharing arrangements, and the needs of the child. Disputes often arise over income disclosures or modifications after life changes. Our attorneys ensure accurate calculations and aggressive advocacy.
Need help with child support? ➝
Types of Divorce We Handle
Contested Divorce
When spouses disagree on one or more key issues, the case may proceed to trial. Our firm has experience handling high-conflict divorces involving complex financials, business valuations, and custody disputes.
Uncontested Divorce
When both spouses agree on all terms, the process is faster and less expensive. We can guide you through the paperwork and court procedures to finalize the divorce efficiently.
Collaborative Divorce
A non-adversarial approach where both parties commit to resolving their issues outside of court. This method can save time, reduce stress, and preserve relationships—especially important when children are involved.
Discover the benefits of collaborative divorce ➝
Modifications and Enforcement
Life changes. If your divorce decree no longer reflects your reality, McNary Law can help with modifications to alimony, custody, or support. If your ex is not complying with court orders, we pursue enforcement remedies to protect your rights.
Domestic Violence and Injunctions
Divorce cases involving domestic violence require immediate attention and skilled representation. We help clients file or defend against injunctions (restraining orders) and ensure protection and due process are respected throughout.
Visit our domestic violence page ➝
Why Choose McNary Law?
Bradenton-Based, Sarasota-Focused – Deep knowledge of the local courts, judges, and procedures.
Empathetic, Strategic Advocacy – We listen first, then act with precision.
Full-Service Family Law Firm – We offer support through every family law issue: custody, support, mediation, relocation, and more.
Rooted in Core Values – Honesty. Compassion. Accountability. Community.
Let’s Talk About Your Next Chapter
You don’t have to navigate this process alone. Whether your divorce is just beginning or you’re stuck in a drawn-out legal battle, we’re here to help you 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.
