Knowledgeable Fort Lauderdale Attorneys Implement Proven Strategies to Resolve Difficult Domestic Issues
Caring Florida lawyers handles a diverse range of family law matters
When you have a sensitive legal issue, you need an efficient and caring attorney to guide you. At Greco Law, PLLC in Fort Lauderdale, we represent clients in Broward and Palm Beach counties in many types of family law matters, including child support and divorce proceedings conducted through negotiations, mediation and in court. We understand the stress and emotional toll these issues can produce. Our firm is highly adept at finding creative solutions to complex problems and can clearly explain what options exist to achieve your goals. Whether you need to enforce a child support order, file for divorce or discuss the mediation process, we will review your situation and thoroughly advise on what the best legal course might be.
Understanding the divorce process
Divorce is a significant decision, and how long it will take to obtain a final dissolution depends upon many factors, particularly whether the divorce is contested or uncontested. Uncontested divorce, where all the issues between spouses are settled and agreed upon, typically takes three to four months. Contested divorces, however, where spouses can’t agree on certain terms, can last from six months to two years, or even longer, depending upon whether the case goes to trial or is settled. We have extensive experience handling Florida divorce cases and procedures and will use our knowledge to seek a cost-effective and fair resolution in your case.
When can you modify a parenting plan?
As circumstances change, the parenting plan you initially put in place may no longer work. Modification orders can be negotiated by you and your ex or decided by the judge after a contested proceeding. If both you and your ex agree, the process is fairly simple, though any proposed changes should be reviewed by your attorney before being filed with the court. If you cannot agree, a judge will decide the issue based on the best interests of the child. Typically, courts will require proof of substantial and unanticipated changes in order to revise the existing terms, and an experienced attorney can assess the merits of your case. We understand how important your relationship is with your child and will make every effort to protect your rights.
What is the process to change or enforce child support obligations?
Modifying or enforcing a child support order requires court intervention. Modifications are permitted when a substantial change in circumstances occurs that would change the rate under state guidelines by at least $50 or 15 percent (whichever is greater). If the issue is payment, you can ask a court to hold the noncompliant parent in civil contempt, which means wages can be garnished, assets seized and property liens placed, among other options, to force compliance. Child support is vitally important to your child’s wellbeing, and we will determine the best and most direct route to resolve your issues.
Advantages of family law mediation
Mediation is a less adversarial approach to resolving disputes, and courts favor parties settling family law cases using this process due to the sensitive nature of the issues involved. In addition, mediation offers several advantages over litigation, including:
- Lower cost
- Confidential
- Control over the outcome
- Less time-consuming
Exploring all your options is a key part of achieving your objectives, and we are highly effective at helping parties reach agreement using this process.
Contact a dedicated Florida law firm to schedule an initial consultation
At Greco Law, PLLC, we represent clients throughout Palm Beach and Broward counties, and the surrounding areas, in a variety of family law matters. Call 754-233-4100 or contact us online today to schedule a consultation at our Fort Lauderdale office.
