5 Essential Steps to Find a Divorce Lawyer in Miami, FL

May 30, 2025

Going through a divorce is one of life’s most emotionally and financially challenging experiences. It can be overwhelming to navigate complex legal proceedings while also managing personal stress and uncertainty about the future. That’s why it’s so important to have the right legal guidance by your side, someone who understands not only the law but also the unique circumstances that come with ending a marriage.

 

Knowing how to find a divorce lawyer in Miami, FL, can make all the difference in achieving a favorable outcome with understanding and proper representation. Whether you're facing issues related to asset division, alimony, child custody, or co-parenting arrangements, having a knowledgeable and experienced attorney can help protect your rights and interests throughout the process.

 

5 Essential Steps to Find a Divorce Lawyer:

 

1. Research Credentials and Experience Thoroughly

 

Before making any decisions, take time to verify the credentials of potential attorneys. Look for those who are licensed to practice law in the state of Florida and who specialize in family law. This ensures they’re well-versed in the specific statutes and court procedures relevant to your case.

 

You can check the Florida Bar Association website to review an attorney’s background, including any disciplinary actions or malpractice claims. Also, consider how long they’ve practiced and whether they have experience handling cases similar to yours.

 

2. Read Reviews and Client Testimonials

 

In today’s digital age, online reviews and testimonials offer valuable insight into how a law firm operates. Take the time to read what former clients have to say about their experiences. Pay attention to feedback regarding communication, professionalism, responsiveness, and overall satisfaction with the outcome of their case. When you're trying to find a divorce attorney in Miami, FL, look for consistent praise around empathy, transparency, and results.

 

3. Schedule Consultations with Multiple Attorneys

 

Most reputable law firms offer initial consultations, often at no cost. Use this opportunity to ask direct questions about how the attorney handles divorce cases, their courtroom experience, and their communication style. Consider asking how they approach negotiations, litigation, and mediation, as well as how they keep clients informed throughout the process. This is also a chance to assess how comfortable you feel working with them.

 

4. Choose Someone with Strong Local Knowledge

 

Miami has its own set of local court procedures, judicial expectations, and legal precedents. An experienced local attorney will understand these nuances and know how to navigate the system efficiently. Whether it’s filing deadlines, required documentation, or strategies for negotiating settlements, a Miami-based lawyer can provide strategic advantages that out-of-town attorneys may overlook. Having someone familiar with Miami-Dade County courts and judges can streamline your case and improve your chances of a favorable resolution when you find a divorce lawyer in Miami, FL.

 

5. Prioritize Compassionate Representation

 

Divorce isn’t just a legal matter, it’s deeply personal. You deserve a lawyer who combines legal skill with empathy, especially if children are involved or if there are high-conflict dynamics. A good divorce attorney should not only fight for your legal rights but also support your emotional well-being throughout the process.

 

Let Us Help You Find a Divorce Attorney Who Cares

 

Our legal team at Lisa A. Baird, P.A., is committed to helping residents find trusted legal counsel that aligns with their needs. Whether you’re dealing with a contested divorce, property disputes, or child-related issues, our team is here to guide you through every step of the process.

 

Call us at (305) 595-8185 to schedule a confidential consultation and learn more about how we can assist you and make it possible to find a divorce lawyer in Miami, FL. Our compassionate team is ready to listen, guide, and advocate for you during this pivotal moment in your life.

Judge with gavel on table | Baird, Lisa A PA | Miami FL

How a Divorce Attorney in Miami Can Protect Your Assets and Rights

March 28, 2025
Looking for a divorce attorney in Miami, FL? Baird, Lisa A PA can help protect your assets and rights. Get professional legal guidance for your divorce.

HOW WILL THE CHANGE IN ALIMONY LAWS AFFECT ME?

September 25, 2024
Florida’s alimony law underwent significant changes in 2023, which could impact you depending on your situation. Key aspects of the changes include: 1. **Elimination of Permanent Alimony**: Permanent alimony is no longer an option in Florida. Instead, alimony is now based on shorter, specific time periods, designed to give recipients financial assistance for a defined duration. If you were expecting or paying permanent alimony, this change could significantly affect you. 2. **Durational Alimony**: This type of alimony now has set time limits. It cannot last longer than 50% of the length of the marriage for marriages lasting less than three years. For longer marriages, the duration is more flexible but still limited. 3. **Modification of Existing Alimony**: The new law makes it easier to modify or terminate alimony if there's a "substantial change" in circumstances. This can include retirement or other significant financial shifts, meaning if you or your ex-spouse has a change in income or ability to pay, alimony obligations can be reconsidered. 4. **Retirement Provisions**: The law now allows a paying spouse to seek modification or termination of alimony upon reaching a "reasonable retirement age." This could lower or end alimony obligations based on retirement income. 5. **New Restrictions on Adultery**: Adultery can now factor into the determination of alimony awards in terms of the financial impact on marital assets, though it doesn’t guarantee or exclude alimony by itself. If you are currently receiving or paying alimony, or if you are in the process of a divorce, these changes could affect how much alimony is awarded, its duration, or whether it can be modified in the future.

Navigating Prenuptial Agreements in Florida: Key Considerations and Legal Requirements

July 5, 2024
Prenuptial agreements, often called "prenups," are legal contracts entered into by couples before marriage to outline the division of assets and financial responsibilities in the event of a divorce. In Florida, these agreements are governed by the Florida Premarital Agreement Act, which sets forth specific requirements and considerations to ensure their validity and enforceability. Understanding the Purpose of Prenuptial Agreements Prenuptial agreements serve several critical functions, including: 1. **Asset Protection**: Ensuring that individual assets acquired before the marriage remain separate. 2. **Debt Allocation**: Clarifying responsibility for debts incurred before and during the marriage. 3. **Business Interests**: Protecting business assets and interests. 4. **Estate Planning**: Coordinating with existing estate plans to provide for children from previous marriages. Legal Requirements for Prenuptial Agreements in Florida To be enforceable in Florida, a prenuptial agreement must meet the following criteria: 1. **Written and Signed**: The agreement must be in writing and signed by both parties. 2. **Voluntary**: Both parties must enter into the agreement voluntarily, without any coercion, duress, or undue influence. 3. **Full Disclosure**: There must be full and fair disclosure of all assets, liabilities, and income by both parties before signing the agreement. 4. **Fair and Reasonable**: The terms of the agreement must be fair and reasonable at the time of execution. Potential Challenges to Prenuptial Agreements Even when these requirements are met, a prenuptial agreement can be challenged in court under certain circumstances, such as: - **Lack of Voluntariness**: If one party can prove they were pressured or coerced into signing the agreement, it may be deemed invalid. - **Insufficient Disclosure**: Failure to fully disclose assets, debts, or income can render the agreement unenforceable. - **Unconscionability**: If the agreement is found to be unconscionable (grossly unfair) at the time of enforcement, a court may refuse to uphold it. Legal Counsel and Review Given the complexity and potential for future disputes, it is crucial for each party to seek independent legal counsel before signing a prenuptial agreement. An experienced family law attorney can ensure that the agreement complies with Florida law, is fair to both parties, and adequately protects their interests. Conclusion A well-drafted prenuptial agreement can provide clarity and protection for both parties entering into a marriage. In Florida, adhering to legal requirements and ensuring full disclosure and fairness are essential for the agreement's enforceability. Couples should work closely with legal professionals to create a prenuptial agreement that meets their unique needs and withstands legal scrutiny. Navigating the intricacies of prenuptial agreements in Florida requires careful consideration and expert guidance. By understanding the legal framework and taking proactive steps, couples can enter into their marriage with confidence and peace of mind. --- For more information on prenuptial agreements and other family law matters, contact Lisa A. Baird at (305) 595-8185.

How to Get Divorced in Florida

December 4, 2023
To get divorced in Florida with property and children involved, you will need to follow a few steps: 1. Determine if you are eligible: At least one spouse must have been a resident of Florida for at least six months before filing for divorce. 2. Consult with an attorney: Divorce can be a complex process, especially when property and children are involved. Seeking guidance from Attorney Baird with over 30 years of experience in family law will help ensure that you understand your rights, obligations, and the correct legal procedures to follow. 3. File the petition: To initiate the divorce process, you must file a petition for dissolution of marriage with the circuit court in the county where you or your spouse resides. The petition should include information about your marriage, property, and children. 4. Serve the petition: After filing the petition, you will need to serve your spouse with a copy of the papers. The court requires proper service through a sheriff's deputy or a private process server. Attorneys can also agree to accept service on behalf of a Respondent in a divorce case so that formal service on the individual will not be necessary. 5. Respond to the petition: If your spouse has been properly served with the divorce papers, they will have a certain period to respond. If they fail to respond within the given time frame, you may be eligible for a default judgment. 6. Parenting plan and child custody: If you and your spouse have children, both parties should create or agree upon a parenting plan, including child custody, visitation, and financial support arrangements. The court may require mediation to help reach an agreement, and if you cannot agree, a judge will make the determination based on the child's best interests. 7. Division of property and debts: Florida follows equitable distribution law, not community property law. This means that marital property includes assets and debts that are acquired during the marriage, but not prior to the marriage, in most cases. In some cases, however, pre-marital property may be deemed marital property, so you should consult with Attorney Baird to determine the likelihood of this applying in your situation. Marital property is divided fairly but not necessarily equally. You and your spouse can negotiate a settlement or, if you cannot agree, the court will make decisions on property division for you. 8. Finalize the divorce: Once all issues are resolved and agreed upon, you can proceed with finalizing the divorce. This involves preparing and signing a marital settlement agreement, attending a final hearing, and requesting a judge to grant the dissolution of the marriage. Note: Keep in mind that the process can vary depending on your specific circumstances and if any complications arise. It is highly recommended to seek legal counsel from Attorney Baird to guide you through the process and before coming to any agreements with your spouse to ensure you do not waive valuable legal rights.