Sarasota Divorce Attorney
If you are searching for a Sarasota divorce attorney, you are probably not just looking for someone who can “file paperwork.” You want clear guidance, realistic expectations, and a plan that protects what matters most to you, whether that is your children, your home, your business, or simply your peace of mind.
At McNary Law, we assist clients throughout Sarasota and Sarasota County in navigating divorce and family law with a practical approach, steady communication, and an emphasis on problem-solving. Our office is located in downtown Bradenton, and we regularly serve the residents of Sarasota County. Many divorce matters can also be handled remotely, which helps keep the process moving even with busy schedules.
Divorce in Sarasota County starts with a few key legal requirements
Florida divorce law is statewide, so the rules are the same whether your case is filed in Sarasota County or elsewhere in Florida.
Residency requirement. To file for divorce in Florida, at least one spouse must have lived in Florida for at least six months before the petition is filed.
Grounds for divorce. In most cases, Florida divorces proceed on the basis that the marriage is “irretrievably broken.” Florida law also recognizes mental incapacity as a basis in limited circumstances.
If children are involved or the divorce is contested, the process may differ. Florida law allows the court to take certain steps when a minor child is involved or one spouse denies that the marriage is irretrievably broken, including ordering counseling or continuing the case for a reasonable time (up to three months) to allow for possible reconciliation.
Why working with a Sarasota divorce attorney can make a real difference
Divorce is a personal matter, but it is also a legal and procedural process. Details matter, deadlines matter, and the choices you make early can shape your outcome.
A Sarasota divorce attorney can help you:
- Understand what Florida law is likely to consider fair and realistic
- Identify the issues that truly need negotiation versus the ones that are distractions
- Put together a strategy for property division, support, and parenting issues
- Keep your case on track with required disclosures and filings
- Reduce conflict where possible and advocate firmly where needed
Florida’s stated purpose for dissolution law includes promoting amicable settlement and mitigating harm to spouses and children. In practice, this often means that the best results come from preparation, clarity, and calm decision-making, rather than escalation.
Uncontested vs contested divorce in Sarasota County
Many Sarasota County divorces can be resolved without a trial, especially when both spouses are motivated to settle.
Uncontested divorce generally means you and your spouse reach an agreement on the major terms, such as:
- Division of assets and debts
- Parenting plan and time-sharing (if you have children)
- Child support (if applicable)
- Alimony (if applicable)
Uncontested cases are often more efficient, less expensive, and less stressful, but they still require careful drafting. A minor error in an agreement can lead to significant problems later.
Contested divorce means one or more issues must be decided by the court because you cannot reach an agreement. Even contested cases often settle before the final hearing; however, they typically require more robust litigation planning from the outset.
Common divorce issues we help Sarasota and Sarasota County clients address
Property and debt division
Florida follows the equitable distribution principle, which is not always a simple 50/50 split. The specifics of your assets, debts, and the history of the marriage can change the analysis.
If you own a home in Sarasota County, have significant retirement accounts, or are managing complex finances, it is essential to approach division with thorough documentation, valuation, and a well-defined plan.
Parenting plans and time-sharing
If you have children, your divorce will include a parenting plan and a time-sharing schedule. Florida law defines a parenting plan, which includes time-sharing requirements as part of its framework.
When parenting is the central issue, the goal is usually to build a plan that is stable, workable, and child-focused, while also protecting your role as a parent.
Child support
Child support is typically determined using Florida’s statutory guidelines, along with the facts of your family’s situation. Getting the inputs right matters, including income, overnights, and health insurance costs.
Alimony
Alimony can be one of the most emotionally charged parts of a divorce, and it is also one of the areas where careful legal analysis and good negotiation can prevent long-term regret.
High net worth divorce in Sarasota
Sarasota and Sarasota County are home to many families with substantial assets, including business interests, investment properties, retirement accounts, and complex compensation arrangements. If your case involves significant wealth, the process often requires added attention to:
- Accurate identification of assets and liabilities
- Valuation of businesses or professional practices
- Tracing of nonmarital claims
- Tax considerations that affect the true value of a settlement
A “high net worth divorce” is not just about the size of the estate. It is about complexity and risk. The more complex the finances, the more important it is to be organized and strategic.
What the divorce process can look like, step by step
While every case is different, most Sarasota County divorces follow a general flow:
- Initial consultation and case planning
- Filing the petition and serving the other spouse
- Required financial disclosure and information gathering
- Negotiation and settlement discussions
- Finalizing an agreement or preparing for a hearing if needed
The biggest avoidable mistake people make is waiting too long to get clarity. Even if you are not ready to file today, understanding your options can help you make better decisions.
We can handle many Sarasota County divorce matters remotely
Divorce can be hard enough without the added stress of scheduling headaches. Many aspects of a divorce can be handled remotely, including consultations, document review, strategy meetings, and certain types of negotiations. If an in-person court appearance is required, we will notify you promptly and plan accordingly.
Why clients choose McNary Law
Our approach is grounded in values that matter in family law work:
- Honesty and Integrity through transparency and clear communication
- Compassionate Problem-Solvers focused on practical solutions
- Accountability and follow-through
- Continuous Self-Improvement to stay current and effective
- Community Engagement in the area we serve
If you are facing divorce in Sarasota or Sarasota County, we will meet you where you are, explain what matters, and help you move forward with a plan.
Ready to talk? Contact McNary Law at 941-345-1662 or fill out the form below to schedule a consultation.
