
Legal Separation Lawyer in Jacksonville
Legal Separation vs. Divorce in Florida
Florida is one of nine states across the country that does not formally recognize a "legal separation." Instead, when a couple having marital problems realizes they need to be apart in order to calm the situation down, they can separate without any sort of court hearing. If there are children involved, the family law courts in Jacksonville do recognize the need for both parents to continue to provide for the welfare and support of the children during such a separation, and will act to safeguard their best interests in the situation.
When you have questions about the legal and practical aspects involved in separating from your spouse, you are invited to contact us at Problems? Pick Porter!™ We can provide you with an initial consultation to review your options and give you the information necessary to make an informed decision.
Common Reasons Couples Choose to Separate
Why should you pursue a legal separation? Many couples choose this course of action out of a desire to observe deeply held religious prohibitions against divorce, as it makes it possible to effectively bring about the conditions of a dissolution of marriage without violating their religious convictions. Some do so in order to avoid losing health care coverage or other benefits, while others are hoping to salvage the relationship and merely want to impose time and space between themselves to let a heated situation cool down.
Perhaps one of the best reasons to legally separate is as a precursor to divorce—you and your spouse can test out terms of alimony, such as property division and child custody, to find out what works best for both parties, thereby avoiding a costly and protracted contested divorce and the necessity of post-decree modifications, which can be difficult to secure.
Even though Florida does not legally recognize separation, it is possible to petition the court for an order to pay child support to the parent who has primary custody of the children. We can help you and your spouse prepare the necessary agreements for a separation including financial support, child custody and visitation.
When a married couple decides to live apart, does not share a common bank account and each pays their own living expenses, they are considered separated. It is always helpful to put the agreements governing such an arrangement in writing, to avoid conflicts over assumed agreements and misunderstandings. If you are separated and are now needing child support or are being asked for child support, we can help you ensure that your children are properly cared for and their needs are met.
Actions for Support in Jacksonville
A petition for child support is called an "action for support." While it is a mandatory step of any divorce proceeding when children are involved, the parent seeking support during a separation must file it personally. Alimony or spousal support is often much more difficult to secure in our state outside of a divorce proceeding, so it is in your best interests to retain a skilled attorney who can effectively advocate on your behalf.
At Problems? Pick Porter!™, our Jacksonville separation attorneys are sincerely committed to defending our clients' best interests, and will work diligently to help you secure a separation agreement which works in your favor. Whether it is a short term arrangement or a plan which you expect to use for many years, you should realize that the terms of the agreement may have a significant impact on your life, determining whether you are financially stable and can spend as much time with your children as you would like.
Let us guide you through this process, contact us today to get started! Pick Porter!™
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Serving Jacksonville, FL Since 2004
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The purpose of this letter is to compliment your law office and its associates on its excellent service. When needed, you answered my questions clearly and politely, offered recommendations, and worked expediently to ensure that all possible aspects of my case have been covered and researched.- Anonymous
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I have always been anti-lawyers, but I love this law firm. I give them 5-stars! The lawyer in my case was Nicole Carlucci and her assistant Brenda. They would always take the time to talk to me and help me to understand whatever questions I had. She actually cared about my situation and there aren't enough stars for them. Brenda was very helpful. I would most definitely use them again and I recommend them to anyone that wants someone to fight for you in court. Thank you!- Diego R.
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When our teen son made a poor choice and could have been facing a criminal charge, we contacted Attorney Jason Porter. Mr. Porter was not only professional, experienced and confident, he was also compassionate and understanding. His connections with the community, strong negotiating skills and empathy allowed for the best results possible for our son. Five Stars for Law Offices of Jason K.S. Porter, P.A.- D.A.
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I met Jason 13 years ago in a case I had. He wasn't my first choice of lawyer originally. Our original lawyer was unable to perform the task needed at the time. Jason took our case over and worked his magic in the courtroom. People, the is no substitute for a court case. This firm is head and shoulders above anyone. If you want to go generic with your cereal that's fine. You can buy Fruit Rings instead of Froot Loops. But when choosing an attorney and your life is on the line, go with this firm. You get what you pay for. And by Picking Porter, you get so much more. Since then my entire family has used this firm for random cases. All of which we have prevailed. Most recently, Chris Craun family law attorney has helped us win yet another case. His outstanding outlook and attention to the details and knowledge of the law was the difference. Chris comes from this same tree. They know people and the law. Do not mess up by acquiring sub-par representation. You should pick Porter before your counterpart does!!!- Ken O.
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Mr. Porter helped me in 2010 with a Breach of Contract case in which he was able to recover my earned commissions from my former employer. Mr. Porter was very friendly and knowledgeable in the area of Non Compete agreements which allowed for a quick settlement from my former employer. The staff was great and addressed my issues and questions in a timely fashion. I would recommend Mr. Porter to anyone that has a case in the areas he practices in.- John
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First off let me say how much I love this law firm!!! My boyfriend was referred by a friend and I'm glad we listened! This was the first time we ever needed a lawyer and Richard Watson was INCREDIBLE! He knows his stuff and he doesn't settle for anything less than what we deserved! We loved talking to Bonnie when we called she was always so cheerful and helpful! I recommend YOU to choose this office!!!!!! I promise you won't be disappointed !!!! I will definitely be using them again if I ever need to!- Sara B.
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Phenomenal Law Firm, professional, empathetic as well as friendly & personal. Best experience with a Law Firm I have ever had hands down.- J.B.
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When I got into an accident, I didn't think I needed a lawyer. However, everything was so confusing and the insurance company was being very pushy. Once I decided I needed to contact a lawyer, I wasn't sure who to call. On the recommendation of a friend who had used him in the past and had a very good experience, I called Jason Porter. I was given an appointment the next day and it was during that appointment I knew I had contacted the right law firm. Mr. Porter was so nice and explained everything in a way that I could understand. He assured me that I would not need to do anything but to get better and he was right! He and his amazing paralegal handled everything so I didn't have to deal with all of the confusion of the insurance company while trying to heal from the injuries I sustained in the accident. Ultimately my case was settled with the insurance company and I received a very fair settlement. I am hoping I never have to use a lawyer again, but if I do, I will definitely be contacting Mr. Porter again.
- Elizabeth E.
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Settled *Estate of Fred Fedorka
Largest settlement ever against Volusia County.
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*Medical Malpractice - $500,000