Divorce is never easy. Splitting up the family, dealing with the financial consequences, and transitioning to a new lifestyle can be emotional and financial burdens. With so much at stake, you need an experienced divorce attorney to protect your rights and interests. That’s where Orlando Family Team steps in.
Our firm regularly handles divorce cases in Volusia County and Central Florida, providing compassionate, effective representation to clients from all walks of life. As a husband-and-wife team, Ophela Bernal-Mora, Esq., B.C.S. and Andrew Nickolaou, Esq., B.C.S. understand the needs of families in transition.
You can trust us to guide you through this challenging time and help you move on to the next chapter in your life. Contact us today to discuss your case in confidence.
Understanding Divorce in Volusia County
There are two primary types of divorce: uncontested and contested. In an uncontested divorce, both spouses can agree on key issues like property division, alimony, and child custody or support. Even though the divorce is uncontested, it’s essential to have an experienced attorney on your side. Uncontested divorces still involve legal procedures, including creating a settlement agreement that must be approved by the court.
At Orlando Family Team, we encourage couples to resolve their differences outside of court. We work to negotiate well-crafted agreements that protect our clients’ interests. However, if an agreement can’t be reached, we’re fully prepared to represent clients in contested divorces, where the terms must be settled through litigation.
Notably, a parenting plan must be in place for divorcing parents before the divorce is finalized. If both parties can’t agree on parental responsibilities or time-sharing, the court will prioritize the children’s best interests. No matter your situation, we will stand by you every step of the way, providing trusted guidance so you can move forward with confidence.
Key Issues in Divorce Cases
Several critical matters must be resolved before a divorce can be finalized. These include:
Division of Property
Property division is a key part of any divorce. Florida follows equitable distribution rules, meaning marital assets and debts are divided fairly, though not always equally. At Orlando Family Team, we carefully assess which assets are considered marital property and which are individually owned, always working to protect your interests during the division process.
Spousal Support
Spousal support, or alimony, can be essential in divorces, particularly in long-term marriages or when one spouse has limited earning ability. Determining alimony involves reviewing factors like each spouse’s income and other relevant financial details. Our attorneys work diligently to ensure that alimony is fair, whether you are receiving or paying support.
Child Custody and Parenting Time
The children’s welfare is a top priority in any divorce. Florida courts make custody and parenting time decisions based on the child’s best interests. Our team advocates for parenting plans that support the child’s well-being and ensure both parents have meaningful time with their children.
Child Support
Child support in Florida is determined by state guidelines, which consider both parents’ incomes and the child’s needs. At Orlando Family Team, we ensure child support calculations are accurate and appropriate, advocating for fair outcomes that meet the child’s financial needs.
Volusia County Divorce Mediation Attorney
Divorce mediation offers an alternative to traditional litigation for couples who want a more amicable and cost-effective way to dissolve their marriage. In mediation, both parties work with a neutral third-party mediator to negotiate the terms of their divorce, including issues like property division, spousal support, and child custody. The goal is to reach a marital settlement agreement without court intervention.
Andrew Nickolaou, a trained divorce mediator, helps couples find common ground and reach mutually beneficial solutions. As the mediator, he remains impartial and cannot take sides or provide legal advice to either party. Instead, he facilitates open communication and guides both spouses toward resolution.
Once an agreement is reached, it must be approved by the court before the divorce can be finalized. For mediation to succeed, both parties must be willing to negotiate in good faith and demonstrate a commitment to resolving their differences respectfully.
Talk To A Volusia County Divorce Attorney Today
Orlando Family Team guides families through difficult transitions, offering informed representation and objective insights. When you partner with us, you will have peace of mind with our husband-and-wife team by your side. Contact us today to discuss your case in confidence.
