Are you thinking about filing for divorce in Windermere, Florida? Divorce can feel overwhelming—emotionally, financially, and legally. That’s why having a skilled Windermere divorce lawyer from the Law Office of Paulette Hamilton Divorce Lawyers matters.
Our firm helps clients navigate every stage of the divorce process with clarity and confidence. Call us today at (407) 420-2311 to schedule your free case evaluation and learn how we can help protect your future.
How Can The Law Office Of Paulette Hamilton Divorce Lawyers Help With a Divorce in Windermere?
When your marriage is ending, you need someone who understands Florida family law and the stress that comes with major life changes. At the Law Office of Paulette Hamilton Divorce Lawyers, we guide clients in Windermere, FL, through each step of the process—whether it’s filing paperwork, negotiating a settlement, or representing you in court.
Our Windermere family lawyers can help with:
- Preparing and filing your divorce petition correctly and on time
- Negotiating fair terms for property division, child custody, and support
- Representing your interests during mediation and court hearings
- Ensuring compliance with Florida divorce laws and local Orange County court rules
- Helping you plan for life after divorce, including enforcing or modifying existing orders
We know how difficult this time can be, and our goal is to make the process as smooth and straightforward as possible. Contact us today for a free case evaluation with a Windermere divorce attorney.
Understanding Divorce in Florida
Divorce in Florida is legally known as the “dissolution of marriage.” Florida is a no-fault divorce state, which means you don’t have to prove that either spouse did something wrong to cause the marriage to end. You only need to show that the marriage is “irretrievably broken” or that one spouse is mentally incapacitated.
To file for divorce in Windermere or anywhere in Orange County, at least one spouse must have lived in Florida for at least six months before filing. Once that requirement is met, the process can officially begin in the family division of the Orange County Circuit Court.
Understanding the basics helps you make informed decisions from the start.
Contested vs. Uncontested Divorce
Every divorce is different. Some couples agree on all terms, while others need more help working through disputes.
In an uncontested divorce, both parties agree on key issues such as property division, child custody, and support. These cases often move faster and cost less because they don’t require lengthy court hearings.
In a contested divorce, the spouses disagree on one or more terms, and the court may need to make final decisions. These cases can take longer and may involve discovery, mediation, or a trial before a judge.
Whether your case is contested or uncontested, having an experienced Windermere divorce attorney ensures your rights are protected every step of the way.
Property Division in Florida
Florida follows the rule of “equitable distribution,” which means marital property must be divided fairly—but not necessarily equally. The court looks at factors like the length of the marriage, each spouse’s contributions, and future financial needs.
Marital assets can include:
- Real estate, including the family home
- Vehicles, jewelry, and other valuable property
- Retirement accounts and pensions
- Business interests or investments
- Debts accumulated during the marriage
Our firm helps clients identify, value, and divide marital property while ensuring they receive their fair share. We also work to protect non-marital assets, such as property owned before the marriage or received as a gift or inheritance.
Understanding your financial picture is key to reaching a fair outcome in your divorce.
Child Custody and Timesharing
Florida courts prioritize the best interests of the child when deciding custody, known in Florida as “parental responsibility” and “timesharing.” The law encourages both parents to maintain a meaningful relationship with their children whenever possible.
Factors considered by the court include:
- Each parent’s ability to provide a stable and safe home
- The child’s emotional and physical needs
- The parents’ willingness to cooperate and communicate
- The child’s school and community ties
- Any history of abuse, neglect, or substance abuse
At the Law Office of Paulette Hamilton Divorce Lawyers, we help parents in Windermere create detailed parenting plans that reflect the child’s needs and family circumstances. When disputes arise, we work to resolve them through negotiation or mediation before turning to the court for a final ruling.
Alimony
In some cases, one spouse may also be entitled to alimony (spousal support). The purpose of alimony is to provide financial stability for a spouse who may have earned less during the marriage or supported the other’s career.
Types of alimony in Florida may include:
- Temporary alimony during the divorce process
- Bridge-the-gap alimony to assist with short-term needs
- Rehabilitative alimony to help a spouse become self-supporting
- Durational alimony for a set period of time
- Permanent alimony in long-term marriages under specific circumstances
Every situation is unique, and we’ll help you understand what type of support may apply to your case.
Mediation and Settlement Options
Before heading to trial, most Florida courts require couples to attend mediation. Mediation gives both parties a chance to negotiate and reach agreements outside the courtroom. It’s confidential, less stressful, and often more affordable than litigation.
During mediation, a neutral third-party mediator helps guide the discussion and resolve disputes about issues like custody, property division, and support. Our firm represents clients throughout this process, ensuring that any agreements made are fair and enforceable.
If mediation doesn’t work, we’re fully prepared to advocate for you in court.
Contact Our Windermere Divorce Lawyers Today for a Free Case Evaluation
Divorce can be one of the hardest experiences in life, but you don’t have to face it alone. The Law Office of Paulette Hamilton Divorce Lawyers is proud to represent clients in Windermere and throughout Florida. Whether you’re seeking guidance on property division, child custody, or support, we’re here to help you move forward with confidence.
Call us today to schedule your free case evaluation with a Windermere divorce attorney. We’ll help you understand your rights, explore your options, and take the next steps toward a better future.