Florida PROPERTY DIVISION LAWYER

Understanding Equitable Distribution in Florida Divorce

Every divorce is different, and some divorcing couples are more agreeable than others when it comes to negotiating their divorce terms. When most people in the Florida area think of divorce, they imagine emotionally charged courtroom battles, while the reality is that most divorcing couples opt for alternative dispute resolution. While it’s not possible to solve every issue in every divorce through private settlement, alternative dispute resolution can provide substantial flexibility to divorcing couples negotiating property division.

Under the equitable distribution standard, the court expects divorcing spouses to split their marital assets and assign separate responsibilities for shared debts as fairly as possible. While it is possible to litigate a divorce and let a judge settle property division, the judge’s interpretation of what would be “fairest” isn’t likely to align with either of the divorcing spouses’ expectations. When a divorcing couple is willing to explore alternative dispute resolution, they have more flexibility in negotiating property division under the equitable distribution law.

Both spouses must provide complete financial disclosure statements that include all necessary financial records. If a divorcing spouse intends to assert separate property ownership rights, they must include all supporting documentation in their financial disclosure statement. All other marital property must be divided equally. The spouses could decide to liquidate certain assets and divide the proceeds, and a judge will likely require similar actions if a couple litigates property division. By exploring alternative dispute resolution, divorcing spouses may effectively negotiate “trades” of specific assets and otherwise customize their property division agreements to their preference.

What Counts as Separate Property?

The financial disclosure statement you provide to the court is the most important first step in your property division proceedings. Next comes your separate property ownership claims. In Florida, separate property can include any property you inherited from your parents and other family members, family heirlooms, gifts, and anything given to you in a “donatory” capacity by your spouse. It is important for all divorcing spouses to remember that the distinctions between “marital” and “separate” property also apply to debt in divorce. It’s common for disputes to arise in divorce proceedings when a couple argues over responsibility for certain debts.

In most cases, the court will treat a debt the same as physical property. If one spouse held the debt prior to marrying or acquired it without the other spouse’s knowledge or consent, they would likely face sole responsibility for the debt. If a spouse intentionally wastes marital assets or attempts to leave their spouse with credit card debt by squandering shared accounts during divorce, they can face severe penalties.

If you are unsure what qualifies as your separate property and your individual debt, it’s vital to consult an experienced Florida property division attorney as soon as possible. Your attorney will be an invaluable resource for identifying, classifying, and valuing all property and debt involved in your divorce proceedings. When you choose Johnson O’Keefe to represent you, you can expect responsive and meticulous guidance through all stages of property division in your divorce.

Property Valuation in Divorce

Before dividing assets in a divorce, each piece of marital property must be accurately valued. This ensures a fair distribution and protects both spouses' financial interests.

Here are the key types of property that may need valuation:

• Real Estate – Homes, rental properties, and vacation homes often require professional appraisals to determine their market value.
• Businesses – If one or both spouses own a business, a valuation expert may be needed to assess its worth.
• Investments – Stocks, bonds, retirement accounts, and cryptocurrency holdings should be carefully evaluated.
• Personal Property – Items like jewelry, vehicles, furniture, and collectibles may also require appraisal.

An experienced property division lawyer can help ensure that all assets are properly valued, avoiding disputes and financial losses.

Dividing Retirement Accounts and Pensions

Retirement savings and pensions accumulated during the marriage are considered marital property and must be divided fairly.

• A Qualified Domestic Relations Order (QDRO) is often needed to properly distribute funds from 401(k) plans and pensions.
• Without a QDRO, withdrawing or transferring retirement funds may result in tax penalties or legal complications.
• Other retirement accounts, like IRAs, may have different rules for division, making legal guidance crucial.

An attorney can assist in navigating these complexities, ensuring compliance with legal requirements and protecting your financial future.

Handling the Family Home in a Divorce

Deciding what happens to the marital home is often one of the most emotional aspects of property division. There are a few common options:

• One spouse keeps the home – They may buy out the other’s share or offset it with other assets.
• Selling the home – The proceeds are divided between both spouses.
• Deferred sale – If children are involved, one spouse may stay in the home temporarily before selling.

A lawyer can help determine the best option based on financial feasibility and legal considerations, ensuring a smooth transition.

Important Details to Remember About Property Division in an Florida Divorce

Every divorce is unique, and while all property divisions in Florida must unfold under the equitable distribution standard, there are many variables that can influence the financial aspects of a final divorce order. Johnson O’Keefe has a strong reputation for reliable and comprehensive divorce representation in Florida. In addition, our team knows the challenges facing divorcing spouses in the area and the difficulties they face in property division proceedings. Some of the variables that can easily complicate your impending property division determination include:

• High net worth. If you and your soon-to-be ex-spouse control significant assets, complex business interests, investment accounts, stock, and cryptocurrency, any of these issues has the potential to complicate the property division determination in your divorce.
• Prenuptial contracts. Some marrying couples develop prenuptial agreements that outline their financial rights and responsibilities for marriage, and some of these contracts include provisions that pertain to divorce. If you and your spouse have a prenuptial agreement in place, this can potentially streamline your divorce by outlining property division clearly right away.
• Hidden assets and fraud. While the thought of sharing your property with your spouse in divorce may be difficult for some to accept, attempting to hide assets to protect them from division in divorce carries severe consequences. Johnson O’Keefe can address any concerns you have about your spouse’s truthfulness in their financial disclosure statement.

Johnson O’Keefe specializes in helping clients resolve their divorce in the most efficient ways possible, and this usually entails alternative dispute resolution. However, if you must resolve your property division determination in court, you can rely on Johnson O’Keefe to represent you in litigation, helping ensure the judge delivers a fair ruling in your case. 

Need Help Dividing Property Fairly? Our dedicated attorneys are here to assist you. Call us at (888) 445-2318 or contact us online to get started.