Full-Service Family Law Help So You Can Move Forward

Without an experienced attorney’s counsel, family law cases can become lengthy and very expensive. After 37 years of experience as a family law attorney, I know how to provide efficient, effective representation. At Russell G. Marlowe, PA, I serve the people of New Port Richey and the surrounding communities with transparent, caring and personalized divorce counsel.

I provide clients with clear information in plain English, and I usually respond to questions the same day because I know how important these matters are to you. I do not create conflict where none needs to exist. I am, however, willing to be assertive in my family law representation when it is in your best interests.

Cohesive Services Across The Board

Learn more about the family law services I provide, including:

• Divorce in Florida: Marriage dissolution is a life-changing event. I provide experienced, effective guidance through contested and uncontested divorce.
• Military divorce: I know the many different details that apply to the lives of military servicemembers and their spouses.
• The division of property: Whether you have modest or complex assets, a family law attorney can ensure that you protect your rights during property division.
• Spousal support: I understand how critical this issue is for both parties. I represent people seeking and contesting spousal support.
• Child custody/parenting time: Custody is often the most highly contested issue in a divorce. I know that this is probably causing you considerable stress, and I will strive to help you come to a favorable custody arrangement.
• Child support: Child support is the right of the child. It is crucial that children receive adequate support, but it is also important that the payments are manageable for the payor. I represent people on both sides of this issue.
• Paternity rights: I can help you establish paternity to obtain custody, visitation or child support.
• Prenuptial agreements and postnuptial agreements: Protecting your assets through legally sound contracts in the event of a divorce.
• Modifications to existing orders: Sometimes people need to revise custody, child support or spousal support orders. I can help you when there is a substantial change in circumstances after orders are finalized.

Many Florida counties require mediation for contested family law cases. I am a Florida Supreme Court-certified family law mediator and can provide mediation services where I don’t represent either party. If I am your attorney, I represent you in the process with another mediator facilitating.

It is often beneficial to speak with a lawyer before filing. I will help you understand your options so that you can make good choices if you decide to move forward with divorce.

What Is The Florida Family Law Process Like?

To: The process for a family-related legal issue often begins with filing the proper documentation with the local County Clerk. Once one party has filed the documents online or in person, they must have them served to the other party involved. You can do this in person or by using a court process server. The recipient has up to 20 days to respond. The duration of a family law case from beginning to end depends heavily on the details at hand. Some uncontested divorces, for example, can take just a few weeks. However, drawn out cases involving disputes over marital assets or child custody may take years.

To reduce the number of cases in court, the state encourages parties to use family mediation, collaborative law, private negotiation or family arbitration to resolve their family disputes out of court. If alternative dispute resolution does not lead to a mutually satisfactory resolution, then the matter may proceed to a family law trial. In divorce litigation, a judge will hear each side’s case before issuing a final, binding decision. With the help of a family law attorney, you may still have the right to petition the court for a modification of alimony, child custody and child support.

Petitioning For Modification Of A Family Law Order In Florida

If you experience a significant change in life circumstances, then you may need to petition the court to modify an existing order. However, not everyone can do so. You must follow these steps:

1. Determine eligibility: Begin by determining the substantial change in circumstances that justifies a modification. This could include significant changes in income, relocation or changes in the needs of a child.
2. Consult a family lawyer: Speaking with a family law attorney can provide guidance on the modification process and ensure your petition is correctly prepared.
3. Prepare the petition: Draft a petition for modification. Clearly state the modifications you are requesting.
4. Serve the other party: Legally serve the other party with the petition and any accompanying documents.
5. Attend a hearing: The family court will schedule a hearing to review the petition. Present evidence and arguments supporting your request for modification.

After reviewing the evidence and arguments, the judge will issue a decision on whether to grant the modification. If approved, they will issue a new order reflecting the changes.

Legal Pathways For Grandparents’ Rights

In Florida, grandparents’ rights are limited. They can apply under specific circumstances, such as when a parent is deceased, missing or in a vegetative state. In these situations, grandparents may obtain visitation or custody if they can demonstrate that it is in the best interest of the child and that denying such rights would harm the child.

Understanding the complexities of grandparents’ rights law can be challenging, which is why hiring a family law attorney would benefit you. I regularly help grandparents understand their rights and the legal criteria required to pursue visitation or custody. I can assist in preparing a compelling case, gathering necessary evidence and representing your interests in court. Above all, I fight to preserve your relationship with your grandchildren.

Now Is The Time To Consult A Family Law Attorney

You can take the first step today by contacting Russell G. Marlowe, PA, online or by calling 727-490-8877. I offer initial consultations at my family law firm so that you can determine how to move forward. I have offices in New Port Richey and Lutz and represent people from the surrounding areas.