Divorce Lawyer in Tampa Florida
A divorce can be overwhelming, but the right attorney makes the process less confusing and protects your future. At the Law Offices of J. Anthony Franco, PLLC, in Tampa, attorney J. Anthony Franco guides you through each stage — from initial filings and temporary orders to property division, alimony, and parenting plans — with practical advice aimed at reaching a fair, lasting result. His focus is on creating solutions that reduce stress now, while setting you up for a more secure tomorrow.
It is not unusual for clients to walk into their first meeting feeling worried, but to leave feeling relieved, informed and ready to take on the important challenge of planning the next chapter of their lives.
I can’t say enough great things about Anthony. He was helpful, explained everything, was able to resolve all the back and forth issues I had previously to getting a lawyer. He got me the results I was hoping for, as a father it seems so hard to get anywhere when it comes to child support and parenting time and Anthony was able to get me everything I deserved with my child. He’s is a fantastic lawyer that actually cares about his clients.
A Custom Divorce Strategy To Protect Your Children, Rights And Assets
Attorney Franco knows that during a divorce, the entire family’s future is at stake. Just as no two families are the same, neither are any two divorces. Law Offices of J. Anthony Franco, PLLC‘s approach is to listen carefully to his clients’ goals, concerns and values, so that he can propose a personalized solution that prioritizes the things that matter most while avoiding unnecessary delay or additional expense.
Mr. Franco is experienced in trial work when needed, but also skilled at resolving matters efficiently when possible. You can expect timely communication and transparent explanations of what to expect. Call 813-608-4024 or fill out this online contact form to set up an initial consultation.
Mr. Franco is ready to assist you with the following:
- Options to protect your interests in a complex division of marital property
- Legal guidance to determine a parenting plan
- Assistance to determine child support and secure your children’s financial future
Frequently Asked Questions About Divorce in Tampa, Florida
Here are answers to a few commonly asked questions Mr. Franco hears during initial consultation:
What are the grounds for divorce in Florida?
There are two grounds for divorce in Florida. The first option is claiming that the marriage is “irretrievably broken,” which means that the issues between couples are too great to fix the marriage. Alternatively, a spouse may claim that the other spouse suffers from a mental incapacitation. However, the spouse must be mentally incapacitated for three years before the other spouse files for divorce.
How long does a divorce take in Florida?
The length of a divorce in Florida varies depending on the case’s complexity and whether it’s contested or uncontested. On average, an uncontested divorce can take 30 to 60 days. In contrast, a contested divorce can take several months to a year or more.
How will divorce assets be divided in a Florida divorce?
Florida follows the principle of equitable distribution, meaning the state divides marital assets fairly but not equally. When dividing assets, the court considers factors like income, duration of marriage and contributions to the marriage.
Who will get custody of the children?
The court’s primary concern is the best interests of the children. Custody arrangements will depend on factors like the children’s needs, the parents’ ability to care for them and the stability of each household.
How much will a Florida divorce cost?
The cost of a divorce in Florida varies depending on the complexity of the case and the divorce attorney’s fees. On average, a contested divorce can cost $5,000-$10,000 or more, while an uncontested divorce can cost $1,000-$3,000.
Am I entitled to get alimony from a divorce?
Alimony, also known as spousal support, may be awarded if one spouse needs financial support to maintain their standard of living. The court considers factors like income, duration of marriage and earning capacity when determining alimony.
Can I file for divorce in Florida if I’m not a resident?
At least one spouse must have been a resident of Florida for at least six months before filing for divorce. If you’re not a resident, you may need to file for divorce in your home state or wait until you’ve met the residency requirement.
Do I need to hire a Tampa family law attorney for my divorce?
While not legally required, having a divorce lawyer is advisable to navigate complex legal issues, ensure fair asset distribution and protect your rights, especially in contested cases or those involving children.
What is the difference between a contested and uncontested divorce?
An uncontested divorce means that both spouses agree to the terms of a divorce, including the division of assets, child custody, time-sharing, child support and alimony. An uncontested divorce is much more efficient than a contested divorce, as it speeds up the process, avoiding unnecessary court fees and keeping the divorce settlement private.
Unlike an uncontested divorce, a contested divorce happens when spouses cannot agree on a divorce settlement. This can happen when a spouse disagrees with one or more marital matters. As a result, a divorce may need to go to court, leading to hefty fees and lengthy legal procedures and fees.
Can I get a divorce in Florida if I’m a member of the military, and what are the special considerations?
Yes. Getting a divorce as a military member often leads to several legal considerations. For example, it is important to understand where the divorce petition is filed. A military spouse may also need to consider how military benefits are divided in a divorce. Additionally, parents might need to consider child custody options if a military spouse is deployed.
How does a divorce affect my immigration status if I’m not a U.S. citizen?
Immigrants often seek U.S. citizenship through marriage. If a spouse is not legally a U.S. citizen during a divorce, it could potentially affect their immigration status. While a divorce may not lead to deportation, it can create some issues in gaining permanent residency in the U.S.
Make Informed Decisions. Call A Divorce Lawyer Now.
Protect your family and the assets you have worked so hard for in Florida. Contact the Law Offices of J. Anthony Franco, PLLC, to discuss your options in an initial consultation. Call 813-608-4024 or fill out this online contact form.