In Florida, the moment you separate from a spouse with the intention to remain apart – such becomes your separation date. This date is used in the legal process to determine cut off dates relating to payments of expenses and child support. A judge has discretion to consider the separation date for assigning a valuation date of jointly held property; for beginning temporary timesharing with children; and for use in determining when the other spouse can be compelled to remain away during dissolution (divorce) proceedings. Florida does not have a formal legal separation proceeding and legal process in order to separate is not required in Florida.
Call Mr. Metcalfe directly at 772-217-8120.