Many contested divorces take several months to more than a year, depending on complexity, court availability, discovery disputes, expert involvement, and whether settlement occurs before trial. Cases involving business valuation, extensive financial issues, or high-conflict custody with a Guardian ad Litem typically take longe

Often, yes—at least for case management matters, temporary relief, or hearings. Case management conferences are often held by Zoom Videoconferencing. That said, many contested cases still resolve through negotiation and mediation once both sides exchange the key information and the strengths/weaknesses are clear.

That’s exactly why contested divorce has formal tools like discovery requests, subpoenas, depositions, and court motions to compel compliance. A spouse can slow the process, but they usually cannot prevent the court from moving the case forward.

In Florida, the law generally uses “time-sharing” and “parenting plan” terminology rather than the older “custody” labels. The court focuses on the child’s best interests and builds a schedule and decision-making framework accordingl

Yes, courts can enter temporary orders to address support and parenting schedules while the case is ongoing—especially when there is a clear need and credible financial information to support the reque.

Florida follows equitable distribution, meaning marital assets and debts are divided fairly (often, but not always, equally). The details depend on what is marital vs. non-marital, valuation issues, and the statutory factors from section 61.075, Florida Statutes, that the court considers.

Cost depends on the level of conflict, how much discovery is needed, whether experts are necessary, and how many hearings occur. One way to manage cost is to focus litigation on the issues that actually move the needle—and avoid spending money on fights that don’t change the likely outcome. Unfortunately, outside of uncontested divorce matters, it is literally impossible to know how much your divorce will cost. Be wary of attorneys who give you estimates!

Nearly all contested divorces are required to attempt mediation at some point before trial (with extremely limited exceptions). Mediation can be productive even in high-conflict cases if the parties agree to the right mediator and you show up prepared with the right information and a clear bottom line.

Take action promptly—deadlines apply, and early decisions can affect temporary relief, discovery strategy, and leverage. If you were served with a petition, don’t ignore it. Call us right away to protect your rights!

Florida is a no-fault divorce state, so you do not have to prove adultery (or any misconduct) to get divorced. However, if marital funds were spent on an affair, or if the affair created a need for alimony, a judge can consider it when dividing assets or awarding support. In rare cases it can also influence time-sharing decisions if the court finds the child was exposed to the affair.

Hiding assets is fraud on the court and can backfire badly. We use forensic accountants, subpoenas to banks and employers, and court orders to uncover hidden accounts, businesses, or transfers. If the court finds intentional concealment, the innocent spouse usually receives a larger share of what is left, plus attorney’s fees and costs.

Generally no — but there are some exceptions. if the divorce has been filed, not without the other parent’s written agreement or a court order. Florida’s relocation statute is strict regarding notice and the parent seeking to relocate must prove the move is in the child’s best interest. Trying to move without permission can result in an emergency injunction and hurt your custody case.

Not necessarily. Florida uses equitable distribution, not a strict 50/50 split. The court starts with the presumption of equal division but can award more (or less) to one spouse based on factors that are spelled out in section 61.075, Florida Statutes, like length of marriage, income disparity, contributions, and waste of marital assets.

You can file a motion for temporary relief as soon as the case is filed (or even the same day you respond if you were served). In the Hillsborough, Pinellas, and Pasco Counties, hearings are often scheduled within 4–6 weeks if the need is urgent. Absent an emergency you are required to mediate the temporary relief issues before the hearing which often leads to additional time being involved. We routinely get temporary orders in place early so you are not left without support while the case drags on.

Yes — the vast majority do. Most contested cases settle after discovery, mediation, or once both sides see what the evidence and likely court outcome look like. We prepare every case for trial but work aggressively toward smart settlements that avoid the stress and expense of a final hearing.