Handling Every Aspect of Divorce in Florida
If divorce is determined to be the best path, various issues can arise that require careful attention. In Florida, certain minimum legal requirements must be satisfied before a court will grant a dissolution of marriage. Understanding these requirements is essential to a smooth process, and our team ensures you are fully informed and prepared.
For Fort Myers and Lee County residents, our knowledge of regional procedures and court document standards can make the divorce process more straightforward. Florida law requires that at least one spouse reside in the state for at least six months before filing for divorce, and filings typically occur in your county’s circuit court. In Fort Myers, your case will be managed at the courthouse on Monroe Street, where local family law judges review disclosures, parenting plans, and other filings. By having our Fort Myers divorce lawyers guide you through each step, you’re equipped to avoid common missteps and unnecessary court delays.
We can provide you with answers to a broad spectrum of divorce-related questions, including:
We recognize how stressful this process can be, especially if children are involved. With the support of a knowledgeable divorce lawyer in Fort Myers, you can minimize provocation and move through negotiations efficiently while protecting your interests and those of your family.
How Our Divorce Attorneys Approach Negotiation & Mediation
When you work with a divorce attorney at Calvo & Calvo, Attorneys at Law, you benefit from a proven process for negotiation and mediation—two approaches favored by Lee County courts for resolving divorce cases. In Fort Myers, divorce mediation is not only encouraged but often required by the court prior to trial, making skilled negotiation essential to reaching a favorable agreement without added conflict or expense. Our Fort Myers divorce lawyers prepare you thoroughly, helping clarify your priorities, anticipate challenges, and participate meaningfully in mediation or informal settlement conferences.
If your spouse or their attorney is unwilling to reach a reasonable resolution, our legal team applies decades of combined courtroom experience and a background as former prosecutors. We advocate effectively for your best interests and maintain productive, respectful negotiations. Throughout, our Fort Myers divorce attorneys keep you updated on every development, providing the communication and guidance needed to help you move forward with confidence and clarity.
No-Fault Divorce & Fault Divorce in Florida
Florida divorce law allows for both "no-fault" and "fault" grounds for divorce. In a "no-fault" divorce, you do not need to prove your spouse did anything wrong; you must only claim that the marriage is "irretrievably broken."
A Fort Myers divorce attorney can clarify when and how to use each ground to your advantage. While most divorces cite irreconcilable differences under no-fault, certain facts—like infidelity or abandonment—may still affect decisions about alimony and custody by judges in Lee County. Our divorce lawyers in Fort Myers help you decide when, if ever, it is advisable to raise fault-based claims, always focusing on what is most effective for your circumstances and the expectations of our local courts.
In a "fault" divorce, the court may grant dissolution on grounds such as:
- Adultery
- Cruelty
- Desertion for a specified period and others
If children are involved, one of the earliest decisions will be whether custody will be contested or uncontested.
Definition of Contested & Uncontested Custody
If custody is contested, it means you and your spouse cannot agree on important custody issues. If it is uncontested, you have both come to an agreement, which usually results in a smoother, less stressful process for all involved.
For families in Fort Myers and Lee County, custody issues are often the most emotional aspect of divorce. Local judges always prioritize the best interests of the child, evaluating factors such as each parent's involvement and the stability of each home environment. Our firm’s Fort Myers divorce lawyers help parents develop effective parenting plans, comply with Lee County standards and court protocols, and consider the specific requirements of the Twentieth Judicial Circuit. We work to help you anticipate and address any concerns judges may raise, making your path through contested or uncontested custody as manageable as possible.
How Does Length of Marriage Affect Divorce?
In a divorce, the length of the marriage can influence how property and financial assets are divided. Sometimes, a longer marriage will affect the proportion of marital property or duration of alimony that may be awarded to either spouse. Generally, the longer the marriage, the more likely such outcomes become under Florida’s equitable distribution guidelines.
Florida courts classify marriages of 17 years or more as “long-term,” while those under seven years are considered “short-term.” Long-term marriages in Fort Myers and Lee County may lead to more substantial or longer-term alimony awards and can impact negotiation strategies on property and assets. Our attorneys guide you in accurately documenting your marital history and financial contributions, ensuring your interests are fully considered in any property or support arrangements.
What Makes a Divorce Contested?
A divorce is considered contested when spouses disagree on key issues that must be decided before the dissolution of marriage can be finalized.
Contested divorce issues often include:
- Child custody
- Child support
- Alimony
- Property division
- Debt allocation
If you cannot reach agreement with your spouse, even with the help of your own Fort Myers divorce attorney, your case will proceed in court. For many, the structure provided by a judge’s supervision is the best way to resolve especially complex or high-conflict matters, including high-net-worth divorces and challenging custody cases. Your choice of divorce lawyer in Fort Myers can make all the difference in navigating this process skillfully.
A divorce involving high net worth or complex financial holdings often ends up in court, especially when there are disputes over substantial assets or intricate business interests. Child custody battles may also require judicial intervention. The experience and legal strategies of your Fort Myers divorce lawyer will impact how your case proceeds through the Lee County court system.
Is My Divorce Uncontested if We Agree on Everything?
Yes. If you and your spouse are able to reach agreement on all issues—such as property, debt, support, and child custody—your divorce is considered uncontested. This generally makes the process quicker and less expensive for all involved.
Uncontested divorces are often more affordable, less stressful, and less disruptive for children than contested proceedings. However, it’s essential to work with a Fort Myers divorce attorney to protect your rights and avoid unintended consequences. Our firm offers guidance at every stage, helping ensure your final agreement is fair, thorough, and enforceable in Lee County court.
Our firm is staffed with knowledgeable Fort Myers divorce lawyers who have been serving the Fort Myers area for over a decade. Call us today to schedule your confidential consultation!
What Documents are Needed for Divorce in Florida?
In Florida, divorcing spouses must provide their attorneys with a variety of documents and information to assist in negotiating the separation agreement. These records affect how assets, debts, and property are divided, as well as how issues such as child custody and alimony are determined. Transparency is essential; failing to provide honest and complete information can lead to delays and legal consequences.
It’s vital to start gathering documentation as early as possible to avoid slowing your divorce in Fort Myers. Most parties file required financial disclosures with the Lee County Clerk of Courts, and prompt submission helps your attorney and the court make efficient progress. Our team offers checklists and personalized support for compiling records—tailored for Lee County property, business interests, and employment records—to ensure nothing is overlooked.
Key documents for a Florida divorce include:
- Prenuptial/postnuptial agreements: If you have these, they provide a basis for your separation agreement and simplify deciding key issues.
- Personal records: These may include immigration papers, birth certificates, Social Security numbers, and prior spouse death certificates.
- Tax returns: Typically three to five years' worth of federal, state, and local tax returns—plus pay stubs and employment documents—help establish income and tax considerations.
- Property information: Title deeds, mortgage records, and evidence of ownership for jointly or individually held properties.
- Banking records: Recent bank statements, deposit records, and safe deposit box inventories.
- Investment accounts: Account statements for stocks, bonds, and securities.
- Retirement accounts: Documentation for 401(k), 403(b), IRA, Social Security, or military pensions.
- Business documents: For business owners, items like shareholder agreements, leases, partnership documents, financial statements, and insurance policies.
- Estate planning documents: Powers of attorney, wills, trusts, and advance medical directives.
- Information about children: Birth certificates, health records, citizenship evidence, expense documents, and materials showing the child-parent bond.
Frequently Asked Questions About Divorce in Fort Myers
How Long Does a Divorce Take in Fort Myers, FL?
The time required to complete a divorce in Fort Myers varies by case complexity and the parties’ level of agreement. An uncontested divorce often concludes in three to six months, especially when both sides cooperate and promptly submit documentation to the Lee County courts. More complex or contested divorces—with disputes over assets, child custody, or alimony—may take a year or longer. Our Fort Myers divorce attorneys ensure you are informed, prepared, and equipped for each phase, helping minimize unnecessary delays through diligent preparation and communication with the Lee County court.
Will I Have to Go to Court for My Divorce in Fort Myers?
Not every divorce in Fort Myers requires an in-person court appearance. In many cases, our divorce attorneys can negotiate terms or assist with mediation to reach a settlement without going to trial. If you and your spouse cannot resolve essential issues like support or custody, a judge in Lee County will make the final decision at a hearing or trial. Throughout this process, our Fort Myers divorce lawyers provide representation tailored to your needs, prioritizing efficient resolutions but fully preparing to advocate if court is necessary.
How Is Child Support Determined in Fort Myers?
Child support in Fort Myers is determined according to the Florida Child Support Guidelines. These guidelines consider both parents’ incomes, daycare and health insurance costs, the needs of the children, and the amount of time spent with each parent. Any arrangement must be reviewed and approved by a Lee County judge to protect the child's best interests. Our divorce attorneys in Fort Myers help you navigate these calculations, prepare affidavits, and ensure compliance with all Lee County court requirements, supporting your family’s stability both during and after the divorce process.
A Reputation for Dynamic Representation in Fort Myers. Call Today!
We strongly believe that you should never have to face the legal complexities of divorce or opposing counsel alone. At Calvo & Calvo, Attorneys at Law, we are committed to providing effective and experienced legal representation as you make life-changing decisions for yourself and your family.
Our Fort Myers divorce lawyers guide you with strategic insight drawn from decades of local family law practice. We offer consistent communication, individualized attention, and practical advice to ensure our clients have a clear understanding of each step. With more than 40 years combined serving the Lee County community, we know the judges, courtroom protocols, and legal resources that impact family law cases in Fort Myers. If you are contemplating divorce—whether amicably or in the face of conflict—rely on our legal team to advocate for your best interests with unwavering dedication.
Our divorce attorneys in Fort Myers can help you with the following:
When facing legal matters related to divorce, make sure your future is protected by working with a compassionate, well-trained legal professional from our firm. Calvo & Calvo, Attorneys At Law assists families across Lee County. Our Fort Myers divorce lawyers are here to listen, advise, and guide you through your case with care and skill.
Contact a Fort Myers divorce lawyer to receive the assistance you may need to competently handle your divorce proceedings.
The Role of Bilingual Divorce Representation in Lee County
Fort Myers is home to a diverse population, with many residents who are more comfortable communicating in Spanish. At Calvo & Calvo, Attorneys at Law, we proudly provide bilingual divorce attorney services in both English and Spanish to make sure every client receives clear communication and compassionate guidance. This is especially important during divorce, when details should not be misunderstood or lost in translation.
Our multilingual legal team assists with preparation and translation of all necessary court filings, helping you confidently participate in mediation, negotiations, and hearings. We have supported families from every background in navigating the Fort Myers legal system, ensuring that language is never a barrier to accessing justice. Our approach reflects a deep commitment to delivering accessible, effective divorce legal representation to all members of the Fort Myers and Lee County community.
Contact us online or call (800) 614-5138 to discover your possible legal defenses.
