George Lambeth Metcalfe. P.A.

Call To Find Clarity For Your Family Law Issue
Vero Beach / Fort Pierce / Miami – 772-217-8120

772-217-8120

Excellence In Divorce And Tax-Related Matters

Unraveling Complex Divorce Cases

A divorce is never easy, especially if you have significant assets and property. If you have children with your spouse, conflicts can arise involving child custody disputes or child support. Your personal and financial future is on the line. Filing for divorce, as well as divorce proceedings can be tense situations filled with uncertainty and frustration. The right divorce lawyer can guide you through the process and help you resolve problems so that you can move on with your life.

Just like your family, every divorce is unique. Complex divorce cases require the help of a Vero Beach divorce attorney who understands the nuances of Florida divorces and knows how to manage the various aspects of your case. With over 30 years of experience helping clients in Florida at George Lambeth Metcalfe, P.A., you can rely on my sound counsel and practical solutions.

Exceptional Divorce Representation To Help You Get Started On Your Future

As a no-fault state, Florida couples seeking a divorce do not need to prove fault to end the marriage. However, the process can still be complicated, especially when distributing property and assets. Florida divides property under an equitable distribution model. Under this model, assets acquired by the couple during the marriage are distributed fairly. Before distribution, all assets must be identified and valued. This can include stocks and bonds, owned businesses, investment properties and retirement and pension assets.

Divorce often comes with other related issues, especially if there are children involved. This can include:

If your divorce involves complex financial issues, I will review the details of your entire portfolio and thoroughly prepare your case, considering every detail. If children are involved, I can help you with custody and time-sharing agreements as well as child support arrangements.

Changes To Florida Divorce Law In 2023

In 2023, what was the most important change in Florida laws governing alimony awards in a divorce?

The most significant change was that the option to award permanent, or lifetime, alimony was eliminated. Another big change was that rehabilitative alimony is now limited to five years.

Was there a change in the minimum length of marriage necessary to get durational alimony?

Yes. Durational alimony may not be awarded for a marriage of less than three years. After three years, alimony is based on the length of the marriage.

Were there any changes on the value of alimony awards?

Yes. An alimony award can’t exceed either the lesser of the reasonable need of the person receiving it or 35% of the difference between the net incomes of the parties.

Were there any changes related to the modification of alimony awards and the circumstances that courts consider when modifying alimony?

Yes. There are a few circumstances in which alimony awards can be modified:

  • If the person receiving alimony enters a supporting relationship, then courts must reduce or terminate awards of alimony.
  • If the person paying alimony seeks to retire, they can apply for modification of the alimony award within six months of the retirement date. Depending on circumstance, the court may modify or terminate alimony awards.

Were there any changes related to the modification of parenting plans?

Yes. There were a couple of changes:

  • When a parent moves within 50 miles of the child’s primary residence, that is considered a substantial change in circumstance.
  • It is not necessary to show that a change in circumstance was unanticipated in order to modify parenting plans and time-sharing schedules.

I Can Help You Take The Next Steps In Your Divorce

I offer sophisticated representation and provide creative and rational resolutions to some of the most complex issues. I try to achieve resolutions outside of court to better ensure a positive outcome and a less expensive case. Contact my Vero Beach family law firm to learn more about how I can help you and your family. Call George Lambeth Metcalfe, P.A., at 772-217-8120 or complete an online contact form to get in touch with a divorce lawyer. Assisting clients in the Vero Beach area, I also have offices in Miami and Fort Pierce for your convenience.