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Legal Separation Serving Families Throughout Jacksonville For Over 25 Years

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 Jason K.S. Porter, P.A. 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 the Law Offices of Jason K.S. Porter, P.A., 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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Hear From Our Happy Clients

Serving Jacksonville, FL Since 2004

    "Mr. Porter and his staff do an incredible job!"
    Mr. Porter and his staff do an incredible job! I would strongly recommend Mr. Porter, he is very easy to work with and does everything he can to help you in your situation.
    - N.B.
    "He prepared our family through each and every step."

    "Bad things happen to good families and people” That is one of the first things Jason said to me and my son. The laws are set to protect us. However, the law can be black and white when there are several shades of grey. If a man has a beer in his own house after coming back from war but is only 20, should his dad be charged for contributing to the delinquency of a minor? Have you ever done something now looking back, it may not have been the best decision but nothing happened? That was not the case a few years ago to my family. A bad decision, one I am sure many of us have done in our younger days. A bad decision was made and it could have ruined a young man’s future. The courts are busy and things can fall through the cracks; I was making sure my son was not one of them. I knew Jason had worked for the District attorney’s office so he knew both sides of the law. He knew what the other side was going to do and say because he was there for many years. He prepared our family through each and every step. He made sure that we were proactive “getting ducks in a row” so to speak. If there was something mentioned, we had already taken care of it and showed no history and really no where for the other side to go. What could have been jail time ended up being a bump in the road. No one can promise anything is a sure thing. Jason did not make any promises he was not prepared to keep. He told us what normally happens, and what he was going to try for and he did. I rather have someone say there is a 70/30 chance than, “sure this is no problem, don’t worry about it”. We do worry about it. It is our lives or one of someone we love. Some cases may not be life or death, but they all are between a life that could be and a life that never will be. Jason understands that and approached it as if was his brother standing next to him. Every now and then, I will look at my son when eating dinner or something and think, if it was not for Jason and his group, I would have to visit my son to see him. I thanked God for Jason being there then, and have every day since.

    - Satisfied Client
    "Five Stars for Law Offices of Jason K.S. Porter, P.A."
    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.
    "Jon Lorimier is an amazing and knowledgeable lawyer."
    Jon Lorimier is an amazing and knowledgeable lawyer. He helped me out. Highly recommend.
    - Cynthia J.
    "Nicely Done! Success has been reached!"
    Many times when you meet attorneys to represent you, there are thoughts that reside in the back of your head...some good and some bad. "Are these guys REALLY going to help me," or "do they REALLY have my best interest," or "can I really trust them?" Those are the many thoughts, plus more, that I had--it did go away after my first initial visit with one of the attorney's at Jason's Porter's law office. For my case, I worked with two different attorneys which included Jason Porter himself. Both of those guys were with me 100% from the beginning, in court, after court, late in the evening by phone calls, text, and emails, it was a great experience. What was consistent and what I valued most is that I got to know both of them, what they like to do in their personal time with family, which felt like I could communicate openly and honestly. My case was a criminal case and because of them, I do not have to be viewed as a criminal. I want to share and express my gratitude for how they have helped me so others can choose Jason Porter.
    - JW
    "Aggressive and Compassionate. Highly Recommend."
    I'd been accused of something I did not do. My situation was a total nightmare. I consulted with Attorney Porter and he assured me that my tough situation could be handled. Attorney Gary Shumar tirelessly worked my case, while showing patience and empathy when I felt frustrated. Needless to say, my charges were dropped. I highly recommend this firm.
    - Nikki
    "Thanks so much you guys!!!!"
    This was my first time ever getting a lawyer, and I am extremely pleased with the service I received. They moved fast, and my case was dropped. I will definitely go back to them and highly recommend this great Firm!!!! Jason himself is a pleasure to speak with!!! He’s very nice, understanding, and down-to-earth. Thanks so much you guys!!!!
    - B.M.
    "He is an awesome and very genuine guy."
    I had the pleasure of working with Attorney Jonathan D.Thacher! He is an awesome and very genuine guy. Thanks again, Law Offices of Jason K.S. Porter!
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