Divorce Lawyer Tampa, FL

Tampa Divorce Lawyer: Legal Guidance You Can Trust

Compassionate Guidance From a Board-Certified Family Law Specialist

Divorce is one of the most life-altering events a person can experience. It affects not only your emotional well-being, but also your financial security, your children, and your long-term future. At The McKinney Law Group, we recognize the weight of these decisions. That is why we approach every case with compassion, strategy, and the highest level of professional skill.

Led by Damien McKinney, Esq., a Board-Certified Specialist in Marital and Family Law by The Florida Bar, our firm provides trusted representation for clients in Tampa and throughout Hillsborough County. Fewer than 1% of attorneys in Florida have earned this certification, demonstrating the extensive knowledge, trial experience, and commitment required to handle even the most complex divorce cases.

Why Experience Matters in Tampa Divorces

Divorce is not a one-size-fits-all process. Florida family law is governed by statutes and case law that directly impact how your divorce unfolds. For example:

• Residency requirement: At least one spouse must have lived in Florida for six months prior to filing.
• No-fault divorce: Florida recognizes “irretrievable breakdown of the marriage” as sufficient grounds.
• Equitable distribution: Under Florida Statute §61.075, marital property is divided fairly, which may not mean 50/50.
• Child custody: Parenting plans and time-sharing agreements must reflect the child’s best interests.

With more than 15 years of practice, our firm understands how Tampa family court judges approach these issues. That insight allows us to build strategies that protect our clients’ rights while anticipating the arguments the other side may raise.

Contested vs. Uncontested Divorce

Every divorce begins with the same paperwork, but the path forward can look very different depending on your circumstances.

• Uncontested Divorce: When both spouses agree on all major issues—including division of assets, alimony, child custody, and support—this process is typically quicker and less costly. Our role is to prepare the documents, ensure your rights are protected, and finalize the matter efficiently.
• Contested Divorce: When disputes exist, the case may require mediation, depositions, and trial. Contested divorces can take months or even years depending on the complexity. We provide skilled litigation support while also exploring opportunities for settlement when appropriate.

Whether your divorce is straightforward or highly contested, our focus remains on securing outcomes that allow you to move forward with stability.

Child Custody and Support

Children are often the most sensitive aspect of a divorce. Florida law requires that custody decisions prioritize the best interests of the child. Courts consider factors such as:

• The child’s relationship with each parent
• Each parent’s ability to provide a stable environment
• Educational and healthcare needs
• History of domestic violence or substance abuse

We assist parents in developing parenting plans that reflect these standards while protecting their parental rights.

When it comes to child support, Florida follows statutory guidelines under §61.30, but deviations are possible if special needs or unusual circumstances exist. We help ensure financial arrangements are both fair and enforceable.

Alimony and Property Division

Financial issues often cause the most tension in divorce. Florida law recognizes several types of alimony, including:

• Bridge-the-gap alimony for short-term needs after divorce
• Rehabilitative alimony for education or job training
• Durational alimony for marriages of moderate length
• Permanent alimony (in rare cases) for long-term marriages

Our firm presents strong financial evidence to support or defend alimony claims, always aiming to protect your financial stability.

Property division follows equitable distribution, which considers marital versus non-marital property. We assist clients with:

• Valuing businesses and professional practices
• Dividing retirement accounts and pensions
• Handling real estate and investment portfolios
• Identifying hidden or undisclosed assets

Special Considerations in Tampa Divorces

Not all divorces are alike. Some require tailored legal strategies.

High-Asset Divorces

When significant assets are involved—such as business ownership, stock options, or multiple properties—divorce requires careful valuation and often the use of forensic accountants.

Military Divorces

Tampa’s proximity to MacDill Air Force Base means military divorces are common. These cases require understanding of federal laws like the Uniformed Services Former Spouses’ Protection Act (USFSPA) and how military pensions are divided.

Domestic Violence and Injunctions

If abuse has occurred, Florida law provides for protective injunctions. These orders can impact custody and time-sharing arrangements, making skilled representation critical.

Mediation and Alternatives to Trial

Florida courts strongly encourage mediation in divorce cases. Mediation allows both spouses to work with a neutral mediator to resolve disputes without the expense of trial. In our experience, mediation often provides more control over the outcome and reduces emotional stress.

Our firm prepares clients thoroughly for mediation, ensuring they understand their rights and negotiating positions before entering discussions.

Why Choose The McKinney Law Group?

Board-Certified in Marital and Family Law – an achievement held by fewer than 1% of attorneys in Florida.

Over 15 years of focused experience in divorce and family law.

Recognized by Super Lawyers for excellence in family law representation.

Active member of the Florida Bar Family Law Section, contributing to the development of state-wide family law policy.

Proven results in contested trials, high-asset settlements, and negotiated parenting agreements.

Client-centered approach: We provide direct communication and personalized strategies for every case.

Tampa Divorce Infographic

Florida Divorce Statistics (2024–2025)

General Divorce Trends

• Nearly 45% of first marriages in the U.S. end in divorce, according to the American Psychological Association.
• Florida consistently ranks in the top 10 states for highest divorce rates, with an estimated 13 divorces per 1,000 married individuals (CDC, 2023).
• The average length of a marriage that ends in divorce is 8 years.

Divorce & Children

• Over 50% of divorces in the U.S. involve children under 18.
• Research shows that children in joint custody arrangements tend to have better psychological and academic outcomes than those in sole custody (Journal of Family Psychology, 2023).

Financial Impacts

• The average cost of a contested divorce in the U.S. is $15,000–$20,000 per person, including attorney’s fees and court costs (Forbes Advisor, 2024).
• A fully uncontested divorce typically costs under $2,500, depending on complexity and attorney involvement.
• Women experience a 27% drop in standard of living post-divorce, while men see about a 10% decline on average (U.S. GAO, 2023).

Tampa, FL Divorce Lawyer FAQ

How long does a divorce take in Tampa?
Uncontested cases may be completed within 30–60 days. Contested divorces vary, often lasting six months to over a year depending on litigation.

Do I have to go to court?
Not always. Many divorces are resolved through mediation or negotiated settlements. If trial becomes necessary, we provide aggressive courtroom representation.

What if my spouse controls all the finances?
We can file motions for temporary financial relief and use discovery tools to ensure a complete picture of marital assets.

How is property divided?
Florida uses equitable distribution, which considers fairness rather than strict equality. Factors include contributions to the marriage, length of marriage, and economic circumstances.

Can I change my custody arrangement later?
Yes. If substantial changes occur—such as relocation, job changes, or issues with parenting ability—you may petition the court for modification.

Family Lawyer Glossary

Legal terms can sometimes feel unfamiliar or overwhelming during a divorce. To help make the process more approachable, we’ve defined a few common terms you may encounter while working with a divorce lawyer.

• Alimony – Financial support from one spouse to another during or after divorce.
• Custody – Legal and/or physical responsibility for a child.
• Marital Property – Assets acquired during marriage, subject to division.
• Petition for Dissolution – The official court filing to begin divorce.
• Mediation – A voluntary process to resolve disputes outside of court.
• Parenting Plan – A written agreement outlining how parents will share responsibilities, time, and decision-making for their child after separation or divorce.
• Equitable Distribution – The legal principle used in Florida to divide marital property fairly (though not always equally) between spouses during divorce.
• Temporary Orders – Court orders that provide short-term solutions for issues like custody, support, or use of property while a divorce case is ongoing.
• Discovery – The legal process during which both parties exchange relevant information and documents about finances, assets, and other matters in dispute.
• Guardian ad Litem (GAL) – A court-appointed advocate who represents the best interests of a child during custody or abuse-related disputes.
• No-Fault Divorce – A divorce that does not require proof of wrongdoing by either spouse; Florida is a no-fault divorce state, meaning “irreconcilable differences” are sufficient grounds.
• Default Judgment – A ruling issued by the court when one party fails to respond or appear, allowing the other party to proceed uncontested.
• Timesharing – Florida’s legal term for the schedule of when each parent has time with their child, replacing the older concept of “visitation.”
• Prenuptial Agreement – A contract entered into before marriage outlining how assets, debts, and support will be handled in the event of divorce.
• Contempt of Court – A legal finding that someone has willfully disobeyed a court order, which can result in penalties or enforcement actions.

The McKinney Law Group, Tampa Divorce Lawyer

1105 W Swann Ave Suite 100, Tampa, FL 33606

Schedule a Consultation with our Tampa Family Lawyer Today

Every divorce presents unique challenges. Whether you are concerned about custody, property division, or financial stability, The McKinney Law Group is here to help you make informed decisions with confidence.

Contact our Tampa office today to schedule a confidential consultation with Damien McKinney, Esq., and take the first step toward a secure future.

Contact us today to schedule your confidential consultation.

Client Review

“Such an amazing lawyer! If you need someone to fully handle things and set your mind at ease- he’s your man!”
Julie C