Naples Family Law Frequently Asked Questions

What is the initial step in retaining your services?

During your initial consultation, we will review the relevant issues in the order that the Court will address them, using the acronym PEACE:
  1. Parenting issues including time sharing schedule and decision making;
  2. Equitable distribution of marital assets and debts by identifying and valuing each asset including interests in businesses, pensions and real estate;
  3. Alimony including temporary, bridge the gap, rehabilitative, durational and permanent alimony;
  4. Child support including health insurance and child care; and
  5. Everything else including attorney fees and costs.

How long does it take to get a Divorce in Florida?

If you settle all of your issues by agreement with your spouse, it usually takes about 30 to 45 days to obtain a final judgment. You will not have to attend a court hearing. If you are unable to resolve your marital issues by agreement, contested proceedings normally last approximately 6 months from the date process is served. However, it can take much longer if the matter is contentious. We know this process is very difficult on you and, therefore, we make it our goal to finish cases promptly.

How much does a divorce cost?

I charge $75 for an initial consultation and $250 per hour once I am hired. I also require a retainer up front and the amount of the retainer is determined at your initial consultation.

How is child support calculated in Florida?

Child support is a function of, among other things, the parents’ respective incomes, the cost of health insurance and day care for the child/children, and the division of time sharing. Please contact Jameson Family Law for a free child support estimate.

Do I have to attend a Parenting Class?

A “Parent Education and Family Stabilization Course” is required for all parties in a paternity case or dissolution of marriage case in which there are children. Click below to see a list of courses in the State of Florida approved by the Department of Children and Families for this purpose. Scroll down to the 20th Judicial Circuit to see the courses available in our area with a link to the website for course signup. www.dcf.state.fl.us/programs/childwelfare/docs/ParentEducationAndFamilyStabilization.pdf

Should I move out of my home?

The answer is NO, unless ordered by the court or determined as a sound strategy after consulting an attorney. Usually moving out is a bad plan. Please call us and schedule a consultation before making this decision or any other crucial choice that will affect the outcome of your case and life for years to come.

Can the other parent move away with the kids?

It is possible to move outside the county or even the state with the children if permission is granted from the other spouse or a court Order is obtained. This area of law has seen significant changes in recent years and it is becoming apparent to all involved that relocating children is rarely, if ever, in the best interests of the children. If you find yourself on either side of this issue, please contact Jameson Family Law for help in assessing your options and implementing your best strategy.

DISCLAIMER

The information you obtain at this site is not, nor is it intended to be, legal advice. You should consult an attorney for advice regarding your individual situation. We invite you to contact us and welcome your calls, letters and electronic mail. Contacting us does not create an attorney-client relationship. Please do not send any confidential information to us until such time as an attorney-client relationship has been established.

The hiring of a lawyer is an important decision that should not be based solely upon advertisements. Before you decide, ask us to send you free written information about our qualifications and experience.

Naples

1415 Panther Lane #373
Naples, FL 34109
Ph: (239) 591-6655
Fax: (239) 591-6601