Tampa Divorce Attorneys

Assisting Clients With Divorce Matters in Florida

Divorce can be stressful and complicated, even for couples lucky enough to seek an amicable dissolution. When your future, family, and economic security are on the line, partnering with an experienced Tampa divorce lawyer is essential to retain what’s rightfully yours. At Robert Sparks Attorneys, we understand the serious and sensitive nature of ending a marriage. That’s why our attorneys are committed to safeguarding your rights in family court. 

With our proven track record of results and years of experience representing couples in Tampa, our divorce attorneys are well-versed in Florida law to pursue a favorable outcome. From child custody disputes to complex property division, you can trust our compassionate advocates to give your case the time and attention it deserves. Whether you’re worried about retaining ownership of a family-owned business or concerned about the well-being of your children, our firm can fight tirelessly to achieve the fair outcome you deserve. 

Filing for divorce? Our Tampa divorce lawyers can fight tirelessly to protect your rights and hard-earned assets. Call (813) 710-4816 to schedule a consultation.

Florida Divorce Statistics

The Sunshine State has one of the highest divorce rates in the country. According to the World Population Review, the state is ranked fifth-highest for divorce in the U.S. in 2024 with a divorce rate of 3.4%. However, Florida’s divorce rate has actually been in decline over the past decade. This trend can be attributed to a myriad of factors, such as economic conditions, policy shifts, and societal changes. 

Am I Eligible to File for a Tampa Divorce?

Legally speaking, Florida is a no-fault divorce state, meaning that either side can file for a divorce without providing a reason as long as the marriage is considered “irretrievably broken.” In the context of divorce, a marriage is considered irretrievably broken when there is a significant and permanent breakdown in the marital relationship. In other words, both spouses agree the marriage has reached a point where they can no longer reconcile their differences or resolve marital issues. 

Understanding the Divorce Process in Florida

Whether you’re filing for a simplified dissolution of marriage or preparing for a hostile contested divorce, understanding how the divorce process works in Tampa is crucial to protecting your financial security and obtaining a favorable outcome. Regardless of the divorce type, the non-petitioning spouse (“respondent”) must respond within 20 days of being served divorce papers. Each spouse is also required to complete financial affidavits within 45 days to proceed in the process. This includes the disclosure of:

• Monthly income. This includes wages, salaries, retirement, earnings from self-employment, dividends, Social Security (retirement or disability), unemployment, rent, and other sources of income. 
• Monthly expenses. Common examples include rent, mortgage payments, utilities, gas, transportation, telephone bills, cable/satellite, personal grooming, insurance, food, and other monthly costs. 
• Assets. This includes real estate, vehicles, jewelry, stocks, bonds, retirement benefits, and other property. 
• Liabilities. Some examples include credit card debt, balance on mortgages, and personal loans.

What Is a Simplified Divorce? 

A simplified dissolution of marriage is a streamlined path to divorce that can save couples time and money in the courtroom. On average, a simplified divorce takes approximately 30 days to complete, while a regular contested divorce can take several weeks or months. However, only certain couples are eligible to file for a simplified divorce.

Couples must meet the following criteria to qualify:

• Residency: The couple has resided in the state for at least six months prior to filing.
• Property division: Both spouses agree to the distribution of property, debts, and assets.
• Child custody: The couple does not have minor children together.
• Alimony: Neither spouse is seeking alimony.

What Is the Difference Between a Contested and Uncontested Divorce in Florida?

In Florida, an uncontested (or simplified) divorce occurs when both spouses agree on all key issues, including asset division, child custody, and alimony (as mentioned earlier), making it generally faster and less costly. A contested divorce, on the other hand, involves disagreements on one or more issues that require court intervention for resolution. Contested divorces take longer and may require mediation, court hearings, and possibly a trial, as the judge will need to make decisions on unresolved matters. 

How Long Does the Divorce Process Take in Florida?

The timeframe for a Florida divorce is unique to each couple. The duration of the divorce typically depends on various factors, including:

• Assets and debts: The challenges of property division can prolong divorce proceedings, especially for couples undergoing high-asset divorces. Married couples often accumulate property, wealth, and debt over years or decades, potentially leading to disputes involving retirement funds and other assets. 
• Children: Couples with children can typically expect longer divorce proceedings due to complex child custody decisions, including potential disputes regarding parenting plans, custodial and visitation rights, parental relocation, modifications, and other elements.
• Marital contention: While some divorces are amicable, others can be contentious and unpleasant. Hostility between spouses who can’t reach an agreement can result in litigation, extending the duration of the divorce proceedings.

Generally, simplified divorces take an average of 30 days to complete, while regular contested divorces can take 4-6 weeks or longer. In some cases, contested divorces can take over a year to finalize, making it crucial to partner with a knowledgeable divorce lawyer who can help you navigate the legal proceedings effectively and efficiently.

How Does Mediation Work in a Florida Divorce?

Mediation is a process where a neutral third party, the mediator, helps spouses negotiate and reach a settlement on contested divorce issues outside of court. Florida courts often require mediation before allowing a divorce case to go to trial, as it can save time, reduce legal costs, and foster more amicable resolutions. Mediation can cover issues such as property division, child custody, and alimony, and, if successful, results in a legally binding settlement agreement submitted to the court for approval. 

Tampa-Specific Considerations in Divorce

When filing for divorce in Tampa, understanding local courtroom procedures is crucial for anyone going through this transition. The Hillsborough County Court, where most Tampa divorces are processed, requires a familiarity with their specific processes to ensure cases are handled smoothly. This means being aware of filing fees, which can vary, court deadlines, and local court rules that might impact your case timeline and proceedings. Utilizing local resources, such as the Hillsborough County Bar Association's legal assistance programs, can provide useful guidance, particularly for those representing themselves.

Additionally, knowing the dynamics of divorce within the Tampa community can enhance decision-making. Tampa's culturally diverse population often brings into play unique considerations in divorce, such as language barriers or family roles and responsibilities influenced by cultural backgrounds. It's beneficial to work with a divorce lawyer who understands local nuances and can navigate them, offering personalized assistance that reflects the community's diversity and values. At Robert Sparks Attorneys, we are committed to providing this level of insightful, localized service.