If you want to file for dissolution of marriage in Tampa, FL, with a lawyer resident’s trust, you may wish to speak to The McKinney Law Group. We understand this type of situation’s sensitive nature and want to help make it an easier process for you. With one of our dedicated lawyers by your side, you may feel more peace of mind about your situation, knowing that your best interests are being looked after.
Common Reasons for Divorce
It’s a sad fact that not all marriages last forever. Sadly, about half of marriages end in divorce. Let’s take a look at some of the most common reasons for a dissolution of marriage in Tampa, FL:
Infidelity: Many marriages end because of affairs. When one partner has a physical or emotional relationship with someone outside of the marriage, the other partner can feel irrevocably hurt and betrayed. People may cheat for various reasons, including anger against their partner or because they feel a lack of emotional intimacy in the marriage.
Frequent Arguing: While it is normal for married couples to argue every once in a while, it is not healthy to be constantly bickering with each other. Married couples who can’t agree on much and spend most of their days arguing are more likely to get divorced sometime in the future.
Lack of Physical Intimacy: Physical intimacy is an integral part of a healthy marriage. When married couples rarely have sex and barely even look at each other in an intimate way, it can lead to a dissolution of marriage.
Abuse: Unfortunately, both physical and emotional abuse can occur in marriages. When there are deep emotional issues or feelings of resentment, one partner may act abusively toward the other. An attorney who can help with the legal dissolution of marriage may be necessary.
Financial Problems: Money problems are a big reason why some marriages fail. If a couple struggles financially, it can put a lot of stress on the marriage. They may blame one another for their financial problems and eventually get divorced.
Poor Communication: It is crucial for there to be constant communication in a marriage. If married couples barely talk to each other and can’t effectively communicate their feelings, the marriage is at risk of ending.
Hiring a Divorce Lawyer
Attorneys who handle the dissolution of marriage can be invaluable. Because it’s a complicated legal process, it may be in your best interest to work with an experienced divorce lawyer. He or she can help you fill out the paperwork, communicate with your spouse on your behalf, and protect your legal rights.
A skilled divorce lawyer may also offer objectivity. A divorce can be emotionally draining and cloud your judgment, causing you to make poor decisions. For example, you may agree on an unfair settlement just to finish the divorce process. A divorce lawyer may be able to step in and prevent you from making bad decisions.
If you are interested in a dissolution of marriage Tampa FL offers, contact The McKinney Law Group at 813-906-0048.
What Is “Divorce Season”?
It is now well documented that spikes in American divorce rates usually occur in August and March on an annual basis. Why would the divorce rates spike at these times of the year? It seems that more Americans tend to file for divorce after the major holiday seasons conclude. For this reason, the late winter/early spring and late summer/early fall are commonly referred to as divorce seasons.
If you are considering filing for legal separation or divorce, you can do so at any time. However, it is generally a good idea to discuss both the practical and legal “timing” of your divorce with an experienced attorney before you commit to a plan of action when doing so is possible and appropriate. There are certain advantages associated with timing your divorce in specific ways. Therefore, it is important to understand the potential advantages and disadvantages of your timing before making an informed decision according to your unique circumstances. If you have questions about timing your divorce, an experienced Tampa, Florida dissolution of marriage lawyer can help.
Why “Divorce Season” Matters
The holidays are a time of reflection and are usually a time of family togetherness. These times of the year can, therefore, bring clarity to the state of any given relationship. In addition, many couples choose to avoid timing their divorce filings for the holiday season because it can be difficult for families to celebrate and observe traditions while processing the end of a meaningful relationship. With that said, it is crucial to understand that you do not have to file for divorce during either divorce season. Your family may have different needs that may make a filing at a different time of the year wholly appropriate. For example, suppose you have minor children. In that case, you may want to file for divorce at the end of spring or the start of summer so that your children’s education is not disrupted by the immediate aftermath of a decision to divorce. You need to do whatever is best for you. An experienced lawyer can help you to process what that timing may entail.
Legal Guidance Is Available
If you are considering filing for divorce, please do not hesitate to connect with the team at The McKinney Law Group today. You cannot make truly informed decisions about your divorce’s timing (and any number of other critical divorce-related issues) until you have received professional guidance. As a result, it is essential to schedule a consultation with a lawyer as soon as you begin exploring what the divorce process entails. This is not to say that meeting with an attorney will necessarily start the divorce process. On the contrary, speaking with a lawyer in a confidential consultation setting will allow your questions to be answered so that you can make an informed decision about your situation moving forward.
Our firm has extensive experience providing strong yet compassionate legal guidance and support to individuals considering legal separation and divorce. We would be happy to learn more about your unique situation to advise you of your options according to your needs and priorities. Please consider reaching out today, even if you are not yet sure that divorce is the right path for your family. Our legal team looks forward to answering your questions and helping you to explore your options moving forward.
Common Divorce Questions Answered
When considering dissolution of marriage, Tampa FL area lawyers are available to assist with the process and listen to your needs and ensure that your interests are kept at the forefront. Even in the most agreeable of situations, divorce can quickly become a complicated process. Separating the life you and your partner have shared can be challenging as many decisions will need to be made. Also, the decision to divorce was not likely an easy one to make, and emotions will undoubtedly be heightened. It’s completely normal to have several questions about the process and the best way to navigate it, which is why contacting The McKinney Law Group may be in your best interest.
What is an uncontested divorce?
An uncontested divorce is when each party agrees to the terms of the divorce. Meaning, they agree on critical decisions such as property division, child support, and child custody. To file for an uncontested divorce in Florida, you must have lived in the state for at least six months. Florida is a no-fault divorce state meaning that you do not have to have a reason to file for divorce. Meaning, if a couple is unable to resolve their issues, they can file for divorce. Two paths can be taken for an uncontested divorce, a simplified dissolution of marriage, or a regular dissolution of marriage in Tampa, FL. While a simplified dissolution of marriage may be a faster process, you must meet specific criteria, including:
- Both parties agree to this type of divorce
- No children under the age of 18
- Neither party is seeking spousal support
- Both parties agree to divide assets and debts
How should I initiate the divorce process?
To initiate an uncontested divorce, one of the parties must obtain the proper forms and file them with the court. Once filed, the petition will then be served to the other party, who will then file a response. When both parties have agreed to the divorce, they will then work to gather all financial information, including assets and debts, and form agreements regarding how they will be divided. Parties will also work to develop child custody and child support agreements if they have children.
How long is the mandatory waiting period for divorce in Florida?
The waiting period in Florida is 20 days, even if both you and your spouse agree to divorce. Court hearings are scheduled 20 days after filing. While a divorce can resolve relatively quickly in some situations, developing agreements can take time and, in some cases, can prolong the process.
How long does it take to complete the divorce process?
While it’s possible to complete the divorce process within a month, the typical uncontested divorce can take a few months before a resolution is reached. In a more litigious, contested divorce situation, the process can take significantly longer.
Divorce can be a painful process, from the events that led to your decision to the moment it becomes a conversation and the steps that follow regarding solidifying agreements and finalizing the divorce. There is a lot at stake, especially when making decisions in the best interest of your children and dividing all property and assets. To ensure the smoothest process for a dissolution of Marriage, our Tampa FL team at The McKinney Law Group is available to provide the legal guidance and support needed during this significant life change.
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