Comprehensive Family Law Services

Martin Law Firm, P.L.: Your Trusted Advocates in Family and Domestic Relations Law

Family law matters can be emotionally overwhelming and legally complex. At Martin Law Firm, P.L., we provide compassionate, results-driven legal representation for individuals and families across Southwest Florida. Whether you are going through a divorce, child custody dispute, adoption process, or domestic violence case, our experienced attorneys are here to guide you every step of the way.

We stay up to date on Florida’s evolving family law statutes to ensure our clients receive the most current legal guidance. Our firm is committed to protecting your rights and securing the best possible outcome for you and your family.

Our Family Law Practice Areas

1. Divorce (Dissolution of Marriage)

Florida is a no-fault divorce state, meaning that either spouse may file for divorce on the grounds that the marriage is “irretrievably broken.” Our firm handles all aspects of divorce proceedings, including:

• Property Division – Florida follows equitable distribution laws, meaning marital assets and debts are divided fairly but not necessarily equally.
• Alimony (Spousal Support) – The court may award temporary, bridge-the-gap, rehabilitative, or durational alimony based on factors such as the length of the marriage, financial resources, and standard of living.
• Child Custody & Support – Establishing time-sharing arrangements and financial obligations to support minor children.

Recent Legislative Update: Florida has recently revised its alimony laws, eliminating permanent alimony and modifying the factors courts use to determine spousal support. These changes are designed to create a more predictable and fair process.

2. Child Custody and Time-Sharing

Florida courts prioritize the best interests of the child when determining custody and time-sharing arrangements. The law encourages co-parenting and meaningful relationships with both parents unless there are circumstances that would negatively impact the child’s well-being.

Key factors in custody cases include:

• Parental Responsibility – Courts often grant shared parental responsibility, requiring both parents to make major decisions regarding the child’s upbringing.
• Time-Sharing Schedules – Courts establish a parenting plan detailing how time with the child is divided. Equal time-sharing is preferred when possible.
• Relocation Rules – If a parent wants to move more than 50 miles away, they must obtain court approval or reach an agreement with the other parent.

Recent Legislative Update: Florida has updated custody guidelines to place greater emphasis on shared parenting time, reinforcing the importance of both parents’ active involvement in their child’s life.

3. Child Support

Florida law requires both parents to provide financial support for their children. Child support is determined based on income, healthcare costs, daycare expenses, and the time-sharing schedule.

• Child support calculations follow a state formula based on the parents’ combined income.
• Modifications can be requested if there is a significant change in financial circumstances.
• Enforcement actions may be taken if a parent fails to pay court-ordered child support.

Recent Legislative Update: Adjustments to Florida’s child support formulas have been implemented to ensure fairness in financial obligations, reflecting modern parenting dynamics.

4. Adoption

Adoption is a rewarding but legally intricate process. Our firm assists clients with all types of adoption, including:

• Stepparent Adoption – Formalizing the legal relationship between a stepparent and stepchild.
• Relative Adoption – Allowing grandparents, aunts, uncles, and other family members to adopt.
• Agency & Private Adoption – Assisting with legal processes for domestic and international adoptions.

Recent Legislative Update: Florida has streamlined adoption procedures, making it easier for qualified adoptive parents to complete the process efficiently.

5. Paternity

Establishing paternity is essential for both parental rights and child support obligations. Our firm provides legal assistance with:

• Voluntary Acknowledgment – When both parents agree on paternity, legal documents can be signed at birth.
• DNA Testing & Court Orders – If paternity is disputed, genetic testing can be requested.
• Parental Rights & Responsibilities – Establishing custody, time-sharing, and support obligations after paternity is confirmed.

6. Domestic Violence & Protective Orders

If you are experiencing domestic violence, legal protection is available. Our firm helps clients obtain:

• Injunctions for Protection (Restraining Orders) – Court orders preventing contact with an abuser.
• Emergency Legal Relief – Immediate court action to protect victims and their families.
• Legal Advocacy in Court – Representation in domestic violence hearings and related family law matters.

Recent Legislative Update: Florida has updated family law forms related to protective orders to improve clarity and enhance the safety of domestic violence survivors.

7. Modification and Enforcement of Court Orders

Life circumstances change, and existing family law orders may need to be modified or enforced. Our attorneys assist with:

• Modifying Child Support & Alimony – When income changes or a parent has new financial responsibilities.
• Adjusting Parenting Plans – When work schedules, relocations, or a child’s needs change.
• Enforcing Court Orders – If a former spouse or co-parent is not complying with a court order, we pursue legal remedies.

Recent Developments in Florida Family Law

To provide the best legal representation, we stay informed on Florida’s evolving family law statutes. Recent changes include:

✅ Alimony Reform – The elimination of permanent alimony and modifications to durational alimony guidelines.
✅ Equal Time-Sharing Preferences – Courts now emphasize equal parental involvement when determining custody.
✅ Child Support Adjustments – Updated calculations to better reflect modern family dynamics.
✅ Adoption Process Improvements – Simplified procedures to help families complete adoptions more efficiently.

Why Choose Martin Law Firm, P.L.?

At Martin Law Firm, P.L., we understand that family law matters are deeply personal and require both legal expertise and compassion. Our firm stands out because of:

🔹 Experienced Family Law Attorneys – Decades of experience handling divorce, custody, and support cases.
🔹 Statewide Representation – We serve clients throughout Florida, from Miami to Jacksonville, Tampa to Orlando.
🔹 Personalized Legal Strategies – Every case is unique, and we tailor our approach to meet your specific needs.
🔹 Aggressive Advocacy – Whether in negotiations or court, we fight to protect your rights.
🔹 Transparent Communication – We keep you informed and involved throughout your case.

Speak with a Florida Family Law Attorney Today

If you are facing a family law dispute, you don’t have to go through it alone. The right legal representation can make all the difference in protecting your rights, family, and future.

Take control of your family law case today—schedule your consultation!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Florida Family Law

1. How long does a divorce take in Florida?

The timeline depends on whether the divorce is contested or uncontested. An uncontested divorce may take a few months, while a contested case can take over a year.

2. Can a child decide which parent to live with?

Florida courts may consider a child’s preference, but the final decision is based on the child’s best interests.

3. Can I modify my alimony or child support order?

Yes, modifications are possible if there is a substantial change in circumstances, such as job loss or increased expenses.

✅ Still have questions? Contact us today for a case evaluation!