Guiding You Through the Divorce Process with Compassion and Expertise

Divorce is one of life’s most challenging experiences, and the decisions you make during this time will have long-lasting effects on your future. Whether you’re concerned about dividing assets, determining custody arrangements, or setting up spousal support, we’re here to help you navigate the complexities of divorce with confidence and clarity.

At Craig A. Vigodsky, P.A., we offer personalized legal support to individuals and families throughout Pensacola and the Florida Panhandle. With over 25 years of experience, Craig Vigodsky is dedicated to finding solutions that prioritize your best interests while minimizing stress and conflict.

Uncontested vs. Contested Divorce: What’s Right for You?

Divorce doesn’t have to be a battle. Many couples choose to pursue an uncontested divorce, where both parties agree on key issues like property division, child custody, and alimony. This path can save time, money, and emotional strain.

However, when disagreements arise or reaching a mutual decision is difficult, a contested divorce may be necessary. In these cases, mediation is often required before the matter goes to court. If mediation doesn’t result in an agreement, a judge will make the final decisions.

As a former state prosecutor with years of family law experience, Craig Vigodsky knows how to effectively advocate for your needs through negotiation, mediation, or litigation, depending on what’s best for you and your family.

Military Divorce Expertise

If you or your spouse is in the military, divorce can be even more complex. Whether dealing with issues of child custody, alimony, or military relocations, Craig understands the unique challenges military families face. He has extensive experience working with service members stationed at Eglin AFB, Pensacola NAS, Whiting Field, and beyond, including those stationed overseas.

Alimony (Spousal Support)

Determining alimony can be one of the most sensitive aspects of a divorce. Florida courts consider factors like the length of the marriage, income disparities, and the ability of one spouse to support themselves. We help you understand your options and work toward a fair outcome, whether it’s temporary, durational, or permanent alimony.

How We Can Help You

• Property Division: We’ll help ensure that assets and debts are divided fairly, whether you’re looking to reach an agreement or need court intervention.
• Child Custody & Support: Let us guide you through the decisions that will affect your children’s lives, ensuring their well-being is always the top priority.
• Spousal Support: We’ll help you understand your rights and responsibilities regarding alimony, whether you’re seeking support or required to pay it.

Frequently Asked Questions About Divorce in Florida

Here is a list of common asked questions related to divorce in Florida

What are the requirements to file for divorce in Florida?

To file for divorce in Florida, at least one spouse must have lived in Florida for at least six months before the petition is filed. Florida generally does not require spouses to prove fault; a marriage may be dissolved when it is irretrievably broken.

How do I file for divorce in Pensacola, Florida?

A divorce begins by filing a petition for dissolution of marriage with the appropriate Florida circuit court. The process may involve serving the other spouse, exchanging required financial information, resolving issues such as property and parenting, and obtaining a final judgment from the court.

How long does a divorce take in Florida?

The time required to complete a Florida divorce depends on whether the case is uncontested or contested and how quickly the spouses can resolve issues such as property, finances, parenting, and support. Uncontested cases generally take less time than cases requiring extensive negotiation, mediation, or litigation.

Can I get a divorce if my spouse does not agree?

Yes. Your spouse does not have to agree to the divorce for you to seek a dissolution of marriage in Florida. If the spouses disagree about financial, parenting, or other issues, those disputes may need to be resolved through negotiation, mediation, or court proceedings.

Do I have to live separately from my spouse before filing for divorce in Florida?

No. Florida law does not establish a mandatory separation period before filing for divorce. However, at least one spouse must satisfy Florida’s six-month residency requirement before the petition is filed.

What happens after a divorce petition is filed in Florida?

After the petition is filed, the other spouse must generally be properly notified, and the parties may need to exchange financial information and address disputed issues. Depending on the circumstances, the case may proceed through negotiation, mediation, hearings, or trial before the court enters a final judgment.

Do I have to go to court to get divorced in Florida?

Not necessarily. Some Florida divorces are resolved by agreement without a trial. However, the court must still approve and finalize the dissolution, and the procedures required can vary depending on whether the divorce involves minor children, property, support, or disputed issues.

What financial information is required in a Florida divorce?

Florida divorce cases may require spouses to exchange financial information so the parties can determine marital assets, liabilities, income, expenses, and other financial circumstances relevant to the case. The specific disclosure requirements depend on the circumstances of the divorce.

What happens if my spouse refuses to sign the divorce papers?

A spouse generally cannot prevent the divorce simply by refusing to sign an agreement. If the spouses cannot reach an agreement, the case can proceed as a contested divorce, and unresolved issues may ultimately be decided by the court.

Can a Florida divorce involve both property division and child-related issues?

Yes. A divorce involving minor children may address several separate issues, including division of marital assets and liabilities, parenting and time-sharing, child support, and potentially alimony. The specific issues addressed depend on the circumstances of the family.

Call Now for a Consultation

Divorce is tough, but you don’t have to go through it alone. Contact Craig A. Vigodsky, P.A., to discuss your divorce case today. We offer compassionate legal counsel and aggressive representation when necessary, ensuring your needs are always at the forefront.

Call us at (850) 912-8520 or fill out our contact form to schedule your consultation.