When a marriage ends, the division of property and financial obligations between spouses can be one of the most contested aspects of the case. Florida law requires trial courts to follow statutory procedures when determining equitable distribution and alimony, including specific factual findings to support their conclusions. A recent Florida…
When Florida courts dissolve a marriage, their judgments must comply with current statutes governing spousal support and equitable distribution. Changes in the law can significantly affect the types of relief a trial court may award. A recent decision from a Florida court reinforces the importance of ensuring that all alimony…
When a divorce case goes to final judgment, the outcome has long-lasting effects on child support, health insurance, and financial obligations. Florida appellate courts often review trial court decisions to ensure that all statutory requirements have been met and that the judgment does not impose obligations beyond what the parties…
Few cases are more difficult than those involving the termination of parental rights. Florida law requires courts to balance the rights of parents with the best interests and safety of children. In some situations, the Department of Children and Families may proceed under an expedited process that does not require…
Divorce cases involving businesses, marital homes, and child support often hinge on the sufficiency of financial evidence. Florida trial courts are tasked with weighing competing affidavits, financial statements, and testimony to arrive at equitable outcomes. A recent opinion issued by a Florida court highlights how appellate courts defer to trial…
When former spouses return to court over alimony, the battles are often as much about procedure as they are about money. Florida courts frequently stress that trial judges must follow both statutory requirements and jurisdictional rules. A recent case from a Florida court demonstrates how crucial timing is in post-judgment…
Florida family courts must balance procedural safeguards with the need to assess credible testimony in sensitive domestic violence proceedings. One issue that sometimes arises is whether a minor child may testify in such hearings without a prior court order. A recent case from a Florida court clarifies that the rule…
In Florida divorce proceedings, courts are tasked with making equitable decisions on financial issues, including child support, life insurance to secure that support, and the division of marital liabilities. However, these determinations must be grounded in both statutory requirements and factual findings. A recent Florida decision highlights the importance of…
In Florida family law cases, courts possess broad authority to ensure compliance with discovery and support obligations. However, this authority is bounded by due process and the requirement that coercive sanctions, such as daily fines, be imposed only after careful judicial consideration of the contemnor’s ability to pay. A recent…
In Florida, alimony determinations require careful application of a statutory two-step analysis designed to protect both parties’ financial rights while maintaining consistency with equitable principles. The process begins with a clear determination of each party’s actual financial need and the other party’s ability to pay. A recent decision from a…