Brandon Divorce Attorney

Your Hillsborough County Divorce Attorneys Since 1988

If your future looks uncertain, you are worried about how your divorce will affect your children, and you fear it will severely drain your finances, you can turn to Barnett Gill, P.L. in the Tampa-Brandon area. Our team is known for our compassionate approach to family law, helping clients achieve peaceful results that save everyone involved from needless stress, expenses, and delays.

Brandon Divorce Attorney

"I always tell my clients that one day they will wake up and realize that a weight has been lifted off their shoulders and they will learn to be happy again. The stress that comes with divorce is inevitable, but it's not forever." 
- Tom Gill


Please don’t hesitate to reach out to our experienced Brandon divorce attorney to find out how we can craft a legal strategy tailored to your goals. Give us a call at (813) 305-0353 today.


How Can a Divorce Attorney in Brandon, FL Help Me?

Our Brandon divorce attorney will be next to you to address any questions that you may have and to help ensure that you have all of the legal advice and support that you need during this challenging time. A divorce lawyer can help you by:

  • Filing your paperwork and making sure that it is completed correctly
  • Helping you avoid mistakes that could potentially cost you time or money
  • Helping to ensure a smooth divorce process for both parties
  • Being there to support you emotionally
  • Providing you with important legal information to protect your rights
  • Representing you if your divorce case gets taken to court

Residency Requirements for Divorce in Brandon

If you wish to file for divorce in the Tampa area, you must first meet a residency requirement:

You or your ex-spouse must have been a Florida resident for at least six months before filing.

To qualify as a Florida resident, you must maintain a legal residence for at least six months. A legal residence is not just a house—it’s a permanent home. A Florida driver’s license, for example, is not enough to qualify as proof of residency. If you try to file without meeting the residency requirement, the court may not accept your case or dismiss it.

How to Get Divorced in Florida

All divorce cases are unique, which is why we offer a personalized approach to FL divorce law. 

That being said, these are generally the steps one must take to get divorced in Florida: 

  1. Meet the Florida residency requirement. At least one party must have lived in Florida for six months prior to filing for divorce.
  2. Determine the type of divorce you will be filing. You and your spouse will pursue either a simplified dissolution of marriage or a regular dissolution of marriage. On occasion, a simplified dissolution will turn into a regular dissolution, however it does help the process if this can be determined before filing.
  3. File the petition in the circuit court of your county. The party filing for the divorce must file a petition in the circuit court of the county where either spouse resides.
  4. Serve your spouse with a formal notice of divorce. Formal notice of the divorce proceeding must be served to the other spouse, either by a sheriff’s deputy or by certified mail. If you are unsure of how to handle this step, our Brandon divorce attorney can help you.
  5. Disclose all financial assets and debts. A full and accurate disclosure of all financial matters, debts, real estate, benefits, and retirement accounts must be made along with the affidavit.
  6. Reach a settlement agreement. You and your spouse, along with your attorneys, can negotiate a settlement agreement that leaves little to contest at trial. The settlement agreement will contain such issues as spousal support, property division, child custody, and child support.
  7. Attend the final court hearing. If a settlement agreement cannot be reached, you must attend a final hearing before a judge to determine the outcome of the divorce.

Contested vs. Uncontested Divorce in Florida

In Florida, as in many other states, divorce proceedings can be broadly categorized into two types: contested and uncontested divorces. These two approaches have significant differences, each with its own implications and considerations.

  • Uncontested Divorce: An uncontested divorce is typically the smoother and less adversarial option. In this scenario, both spouses agree on all major issues, such as property division, alimony, child custody, and child support. They've reached a settlement and simply need the court's approval. Uncontested, collaborative divorces are generally faster, more cost-effective, and less emotionally taxing for both parties involved.
  • Contested Divorce: A contested divorce occurs when spouses cannot agree on one or more crucial issues. These disputes may require litigation to resolve, with each party presenting their case in court. Contested divorces tend to be more time-consuming, expensive, and emotionally draining, as they often involve a protracted legal battle.

In Florida, there's a mandatory mediation requirement for contested divorces to encourage resolution outside the courtroom. However, if mediation fails, the case will proceed to trial.

Ultimately, the choice between contested and uncontested divorce in Florida hinges on the level of agreement between spouses. Uncontested divorces offer a smoother and more amicable route, while contested divorces are necessary when disputes cannot be resolved through negotiation or mediation. Consulting with an experienced Brandon divorce lawyer is essential to understanding your rights and options and making an informed decision based on your unique circumstances.

How Long Does a Divorce Take in Florida?

The duration of a divorce in Florida can vary significantly based on various factors. Florida law provides for both simplified and regular dissolution of marriage processes, each with its own timeframe.

In a standard divorce proceeding, the duration is shaped by the intricacy of the case and the court's timetable: 

  • Typically, uncontested divorces may conclude within approximately three to four months from the initiation to the completion of the process. 
  • Conversely, contested divorces, involving disagreements on significant matters, may prolong the timeline considerably, occasionally stretching to a year or more.

Factors contributing to a longer divorce process include disputes over asset division, child custody arrangements, and alimony. Additionally, court backlogs and scheduling availability can impact the overall duration. Individuals navigating a divorce in Florida need to seek legal guidance to understand their rights, expedite the process when possible, and work toward a fair and equitable resolution. Our Brandon divorce attorneys can help. 


Contact our Brandon divorce lawyer online or give us a call at (813) 305-0353 today to schedule a consultation and begin discussing your case. 


Does It Matter Who Files for Divorce First in Florida?

No, since Florida is a no-fault divorce state, it does not give either side a legal advantage or disadvantage whether you filed first or did not receive end-of-divorce papers. At Barnett Gill, our Brandon family law firm understands how demanding divorce can be. Our mission is to deliver comprehensive legal representation for all clients in the Brandon/Tampa, FL. As a result, you can confidently approach the case when you work with our law group. As your Brandon divorce attorney, our team provides years of family law experience and individualized representation for every case we take.

How Much Is a Wife Entitled to in a Divorce in Florida?

Typically, courts in Florida will divide marital property 50/50 unless there are grounds why an equal split would be inequitably unfair. According to the divorce law in Florida, all marital property is subject to equitable allocation.

How Many Years Do You Have to Be Married to Get Alimony in Florida?

A Florida judge can order a spouse in a long-term marriage of more than 17 years to pay alimony permanently. This alimony obligation lasts until one party passes or the recipient's spouse remarries.

Experienced Guidance for Each Step in the Divorce Process

Getting legal representation as soon as possible when filing for divorce in Brandon, FL is the best way to encourage a favorable result. Only an experienced Brandon divorce attorney can successfully defend your case. No case is too complex for our team. Whatever legal difficulties you face, his dedication is to helping you navigate each step, protecting your rights, and promoting a stronger future for you and your loved ones.

Our team can help you through a variety of divorce-related issues, including:

Far too many divorce lawyers market themselves as bulldogs in the courtroom, aggressive advocates who can “win” their clients’ divorces. But no one truly wins when an emotionally charged process ratchets up in intensity and hostility. You deserve to have a legal advocate who works to avoid litigation, someone who will instead seek to mediate or negotiate a swift, amicable, and cost-effective resolution so you and your family can move forward. 

Helpful Tips for a Successful Divorce

Every divorce is different, with unique issues to overcome and goals to achieve. Even so, there are a few ways you can protect your interests and help your family.

Here are a few tips from our Brandon divorce firm that can help make your divorce a success:

Involve an Attorney Early On
One of the most critical steps in ensuring a successful divorce is to involve an attorney as early as possible. Consulting with a knowledgeable divorce attorney at the beginning of the process can provide you with valuable legal advice, help you understand your rights, and develop a clear strategy for your case. A local divorce attorney in Brandon can guide you through the legal complexities, prevent costly mistakes, and ensure that your interests are protected from the outset.

Keep Communication Open and Respectful
Open and respectful communication with your spouse can significantly ease the divorce process. Try to maintain a civil tone in all interactions, whether in person, over the phone, or through written communication. Good communication can help avoid misunderstandings, reduce conflict, and facilitate more amicable negotiations.

Gather and Organize Financial Documents
Having all your financial documents in order is crucial for a smooth divorce process. Gather important documents such as tax returns, bank statements, investment accounts, mortgage documents, and records of debts and assets. Organizing these documents will help your attorney accurately assess your financial situation and advocate for a fair settlement.

Prioritize Your Children’s Well-Being
If you have children, their well-being should be your top priority. Work with your spouse to create a parenting plan that focuses on the best interests of your children. Keep their routines as consistent as possible and ensure they have access to both parents. Shield them from conflict and avoid discussing legal matters in their presence.

Consider Mediation
Mediation can be a beneficial alternative to traditional litigation. It involves a neutral third-party mediator who helps you and your spouse negotiate and reach mutually acceptable agreements. Mediation is typically less adversarial, less expensive, and faster than going to court. It can also lead to more amicable resolutions and better long-term relationships.

Stay Focused on the Big Picture
During a divorce, it’s easy to get caught up in small disputes. However, it’s important to stay focused on the big picture and your long-term goals. Prioritize what truly matters, such as your financial stability and your children’s well-being. Avoid unnecessary conflicts that can prolong the process and increase costs.

Navigating a divorce can be challenging, but with the right support and strategies, you can achieve a successful outcome. At Barnett Gill, our experienced Brandon divorce attorneys are here to provide you with the guidance and representation you need. Let us help you through this difficult time with professionalism and care.

Contact Our Brandon Divorce Lawyer Today

Our divorce law firm in Brandon, FL, can help you start your new chapter on the right foot. Our Brandon divorce lawyer offers a balance of skill, empathy, and compassion to each client, aiming to resolve your case swiftly and efficiently. Here are a few reasons people choose our firm:

  • Serving individuals and families since 1988
  • Trusted by thousands of clients
  • Passionate and encouraging approach

At Barnett Gill, our firm can confidently provide the comprehensive divorce representation you need to navigate your proceedings. We understand how difficult divorce is and want to assist you in expediting your case in any way possible, securing an optimistic outcome for you in all the terms of your agreement. 

Testimonials  From Real People

  • “very happy”
  • “Excellent Lawyer”
  • “The kindness that was show to me was outstanding and I felt Mr. Gill was with me step by step during the entire process.”
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