Divorce Attorney in Tampa

Are you considering filing for divorce in the Tampa Bay, Florida area? Contact K. Dean Kantaras, P.A. for divorce advice on what you can expect and how you can be prepared. 

With four decades of combined legal experience, our Tampa Bay divorce lawyers can resolve divorce matters inside and outside of court. With knowledge of Florida family law, our family law attorneys can pursue agreements and settlements with your best interests in mind.

Understanding the nuances of Florida family law allows us to tailor our approach to each client's unique situation. Our approach emphasizes the emotional and financial well-being of our clients, ensuring that the resolutions we pursue align closely with their life goals. We work diligently to keep the lines of communication open and transparent, providing clarity and confidence through every step of the legal process.

Contact us now to schedule a consultation with a divorce attorney in Tampa!

Why Choose Our Tampa Divorce Attorneys?

• Florida Super Lawyers® – Ranked Among the Top 5% of Florida Attorneys
• 10 Best Family Law Attorneys – American Institute of Family Law Attorneys™
• AV Preeminent® Rating for Legal Excellence & Ethical Standards
• K. Dean Kantaras is a Board Certified Specialist in Florida Marital and Family Law – True of Less than 1% of All Florida Attorneys

Our track record of success and the personal dedication of our team have earned us a respected reputation in the Tampa community. Clients choose us because they value our practical and compassionate approach along with our strategic legal thinking. We are committed to helping clients navigate their legal challenges effectively while providing unwavering support from a skilled divorce lawyer in Tampa.

Contact K. Dean Kantaras, P.A. to speak with our experienced Tampa divorce lawyers.

Different Types of Divorce in Florida

Divorce varies from state to state. At K. Dean Kantaras, P.A. our Tampa divorce lawyers can assist with all types of divorces in Florida, ensuring that you receive knowledgeable guidance.

• Collaborative Divorce – You and your spouse agree to avoid court, voluntarily cooperating to reach an agreement without the interference of a judge.
• Contested Divorce – You and your spouse head to court where a judge listens to both sides and decides the outcome, issuing a court order.
• Uncontested Divorce – You and your spouse agree to all terms and present a signed agreement to the court for approval.
• High Asset Divorce – Divorce that involves intricate finances and high net worth marital estates.
• Divorce Mediation – A third party (the mediator) facilitates negotiations to avoid a court hearing.

Each divorce type has its own set of challenges and advantages. Our skilled attorneys ensure that clients fully understand the implications of each type, assessing which route aligns best with their personal circumstances and future aspirations. By customizing strategies for each situation, we facilitate smoother transitions and seek to minimize conflict whenever possible.

How To File for Divorce in Florida

In Florida, the official term for divorce is a dissolution of marriage. You or your spouse must live in Florida for six months before you can petition for a divorce. Florida has a no-fault divorce law, which means that neither spouse is required to state grounds for divorce or to prove that the other has done anything wrong. Instead, either spouse can file for divorce solely on the grounds of irreconcilable differences. There are two main ways to file for divorce:

In A Simplified Divorce:

• Both spouses agree that the marriage is irretrievably broken.
• No dependent children are involved.
• Both spouses sign a joint petition for dissolution in county court.
• The partners decide how to divide their shared property.

If there are dependent children involved in your divorce, you can still pursue an uncontested or collaborative divorce, but you cannot go through the simplified court process detailed above.

In a simplified divorce, the process is designed to expedite the dissolution for couples who agree on all major issues. This method not only saves time but can also be less emotionally taxing, allowing both parties to move forward amicably. This pathway is particularly useful for those without shared children and with straightforward asset arrangements.

In A Regular Divorce:

• One spouse files a petition for dissolution of marriage.
• The other must file an answer within 20 days.

Regular divorces may involve more complex disagreements, especially concerning custody arrangements, financial distributions, and other intricate matters. Our legal team is ready to advocate for your interests, ensuring that the proceedings are as smooth and fair as possible while aiming for resolutions that cater to your long-term goals with the guidance of a Tampa divorce attorney.

What Is a Wife Entitled to in a Divorce in Florida?

A divorce in Florida entitles a wife to 50/50 of all marital property. The court will usually divide marital assets and liabilities 50/50 that either spouse acquired during the marriage. Non-marital property, or property acquired before the marriage, is not divided equally.

Does Adultery Affect Divorce in Florida?

A spouse that has committed adultery may be in jeopardy of losing his or her right to custody or seeing that custody diminished. This is so because moral fitness is one of the factors a court considers when making a custody determination. Adultery can also affect the division of assets. Expenditures such as gifts, trips, dates, and other items purchased to further an affair are all considered wasted marital assets. Adultery can have serious effects on how property and custody issues are determined in a divorce.

While Florida is a no-fault state, meaning that adultery itself is not grounds for divorce, its consequences can permeate the divorce proceeding. It often impacts financial settlements if it led to the depletion of marital resources. Our legal team provides thorough guidance on how these issues might affect your divorce and strategizes to protect your best interests.

The Florida Divorce Process: What to Expect

The state of Florida has a set process in place for individuals who wish to file for divorce from their spouses. If you are contemplating a divorce, it is important to understand the legal steps that allow you to file. The process is as follows:

1. Consult a Divorce Lawyer: Whether you are the person filing for divorce or being served with divorce papers, it is never too early to speak with an attorney to help you navigate the complexities of divorce law. A skilled lawyer helps you understand all of the paperwork you will need to complete and ensures your interests are represented every step of the way.
2. Petition for Dissolution of Marriage: This document is where you will list the reason you are filing for divorce. In Florida, you do not need to file for a fault-based end to your marriage, as it is enough to state that the condition of yours and your partner’s relationship became broken beyond repair. You will also be required to make note of any minor children the two of you have.
3. Financial Affidavit: When you file for divorce, it will be necessary for you to disclose your financial details, such as your income and any information related to bank accounts, debts, and taxes. Your divorce attorney will help you understand exactly which documents need disclosing and the timeframe in which you must do so.
4. Submitting Your Papers: Your paperwork will need to be submitted to the circuit court in your county for processing. Additionally, your partner may be formally notified through serving him or her with the petition for dissolution of marriage that you completed. In most cases, you can provide the document to your spouse’s attorney, who will ensure relevant papers are completed.
5. Negotiation and Agreement: Spouses may wish to pursue divorce mediation in order to reach an agreement outside of court. If negotiations and mediation fail to bring an agreement, the divorce will go to court and the terms will be decided by a judge.

In a divorce, remember you and your spouse must also resolve difficult questions about child custody, asset division, and alimony, which can be done either inside or outside of court. An experienced divorce attorney from our firm can help you navigate either divorce process, helping you to protect your loved ones, your rights, and your interests at every step of the way.

Call a Tampa Bay divorce lawyer from K. Dean Kantaras, P.A. at (727) 939-6113 to schedule a consultation with a knowledgeable Tampa divorce attorney. We serve all of Florida.

Divorce Appeals in Florida

Under certain circumstances, a party who disagrees with the court’s decision has a right to appeal.

How Do You Appeal a Divorce Decree in Florida?

The requirements for appealing a divorce decree in Florida are:

• The determination must be final.
• The appeal must be brought within a timely basis.

Our Tampa divorce lawyers have specific training and experience to draft detailed appellate briefs and to make cogent, compelling arguments in appellate court. As a Board-Certified marital law attorney, K. Dean Kantaras is up to the task.

Frequently Asked Questions About Divorce in Tampa

How Long Does a Divorce Take in Tampa?

The duration of a divorce process in Tampa can vary based on several factors including the level of cooperation between spouses, complexity of asset division, and court availability. In simpler, uncontested cases, a divorce can be finalized in as little as a couple of months. However, contested divorces involving disputes over custody or significant assets often take longer, sometimes over a year. Our attorneys at K. Dean Kantaras, P.A. strive to expedite the process by facilitating open communication and working towards amicable solutions where possible, all while preparing meticulously for court proceedings if necessary.

What Are the Most Common Issues in Tampa Divorces?

Common issues that arise in Tampa divorces include child custody arrangements, division of marital assets, and alimony or spousal support. Given Florida's equitable distribution laws, these matters can become contentious, particularly when substantial assets or business interests are involved. At K. Dean Kantaras, P.A., we help our clients navigate these challenges by offering informed guidance, helping them to understand their rights and to effectively advocate for themselves. We aim to resolve these issues in a way that respects both parties' dignity and promotes future financial security.

How Is Child Custody Determined in Florida?

In Florida, child custody is based on the best interests of the child, focusing on factors like each parent's ability to provide a stable environment, the child's school and community connections, and any history of domestic violence or substance abuse. Tampa courts aim to foster relationships with both parents whenever appropriate. Our experienced family law attorneys work to ensure that custody arrangements reflect the child's needs and your family circumstances. We assist in crafting detailed parenting plans that prioritize the child's welfare while being mindful of parental rights.

What Should I Bring to My First Consultation?

For your first consultation at K. Dean Kantaras, P.A., we recommend bringing any relevant documents related to your marriage and finances, such as tax returns, pay stubs, property deeds, and parenting plans if applicable. Having a detailed understanding of your financial situation is crucial. Additionally, come prepared with questions about the divorce process and any specific concerns you might have. Our divorce lawyer in Tampa aims to make this initial meeting informative and reassuring, setting the groundwork for effective and proactive communication throughout your divorce proceedings.

Why Hire a Tampa Divorce Attorney?

Hiring a Tampa divorce attorney provides essential legal guidance and representation, ensuring that your rights are safeguarded throughout the divorce process. Lawyers offer expert advice on navigating complex legal landscapes and help negotiate fair terms regarding custody, asset division, and support. At K. Dean Kantaras, P.A., our team's experience with Tampa's specific legal environment allows for more tailored strategies that reflect local laws and practices, giving you the advantage of well-informed decision-making during this critical time.

Protect Your Best Interests with Help from Our Tampa Family Law Attorney

At K. Dean Kantaras, P.A., our family law attorneys understand that no two families are exactly alike and, therefore, no two divorce cases are the same. What works for one family may not work for yours—and vice versa. 

With this in mind, we offer a personalized approach to each and every divorce. 

Whether your situation is fairly straightforward or extremely complex, our Tampa family law attorneys will work with you to find an appropriate solution that is tailored to your unique goals.

In every case, our family law attorneys prioritize our clients’ best interests in the Tampa Bay area. 

While we always work to achieve agreeable and mutually beneficial solutions, particularly when children are involved, we understand that this is not always possible. As trial-tested Tampa family law attorneys, we are prepared to advocate for you in court whenever necessary.

Depending on the various factors involved in your unique situation, our family law attorneys may do any of the following when establishing a legal strategy for your divorce:

• Fully discuss your situation during a one-on-one consultation in order to better understand your circumstances, needs, and goals.
• Ensure you are fully aware of all applicable Florida law regarding divorce, child custody, spousal and child support, property division, and related issues.
• Gather and prepare all necessary paperwork, financial records, and other documents related to your divorce and the various issues involved.
• Develop a plan to safeguard your financial security and credit, particularly if the divorce involves the division of significant debts.
• Create a plan for your children, including how child custody and/or visitation will be determined and what the arrangement will look like, both in the short- and long-term.
• Determine the full value of your shared/marital property, including a family home, other real estate, shared business ventures, vehicles, household goods, etc.

During the actual divorce proceedings, our strategy is to protect your rights and best interests, as well as those of your children (if applicable), every step of the way. Our Tampa divorce lawyers will negotiate on your behalf and, if necessary, represent you at trial.

Our Tampa Divorce Lawyer Is Ready to Work for You

You can find the talented, compassionate, and ardent legal representation you need for your divorce at K. Dean Kantaras, P.A. From a pre-filing consultation all the way through a trial or even appeal if necessary, our divorce lawyers can provide the counsel and advocacy you need for every step of the way.

We tailor our services to meet the nuanced needs of each client, offering robust support through various stages of divorce. Our dedication goes beyond legal representation; it encompasses a commitment to understanding your personal goals and helping you achieve a fair and equitable outcome. Whether working through mediation or preparing for court, we provide the steadfast representation you need.

Contact us to learn more during a consultation.  Talk to a Tampa family law attorney today.