Family Law FAQs – Answers to Your Most Important Legal Questions
Family law cases can be some of the most emotionally charged and life-altering experiences a person will ever face. Whether you’re considering a divorce, fighting for custody of your children, navigating the complexities of child support or alimony, or seeking protection through a domestic violence injunction, it’s natural to feel overwhelmed and uncertain about what lies ahead. At McGuire Law Offices, we understand that these are not just legal issues—they’re personal ones that affect your home, your family, and your future.
This dedicated Family Law FAQ page is designed to answer some of the most common questions our clients ask in Pinellas County and throughout Florida. We’ve organized each section by topic—Divorce, Custody, Child Support, Alimony, Paternity, Domestic Violence, Grandparent Rights, and more—so you can easily find the information most relevant to your situation. While every case is unique, these answers provide a solid foundation to help you better understand your rights, your options, and how the legal process works in Florida family courts.
Still have questions? We offer personalized consultations and are here to guide you every step of the way.
Divorce in Florida – FAQs
Divorce is never easy, but understanding the legal process can help reduce uncertainty. Florida is a no-fault divorce state, meaning you don’t need to prove wrongdoing to file. However, issues such as property division, alimony, and parental responsibility make every divorce case unique.
You or your spouse must have lived in Florida for at least six months before filing.
It means you don’t need to prove fault like adultery or abuse. You only need to show that the marriage is irretrievably broken.
Uncontested divorces can be resolved in 4-6 weeks. Contested cases may take several months to a year or more.
In uncontested divorce, both parties agree on key issues. Contested divorces require court involvement to resolve disputes.
It depends on several factors including property classification (marital vs. non-marital), financial contribution, and child custody arrangements.
Florida uses equitable distribution—marital assets and debts are divided fairly, not necessarily equally.
Alimony is awarded based on need and ability to pay, and depends on the length of marriage, lifestyle, and financial standing.
Yes. A name change can be requested in your divorce petition and finalized in the court order.