Tampa Divorce Attorney

For a non-custodial parent, visitation schedules must be worked out. These schedules should be as detailed as possible. It is not uncommon for spouses to specifically designate where the children will spend Christmas, birthdays, Thanksgiving, and other important holidays. Spouses can reach terms for taking the children on vacations.

What About Alimony?

Each spouse has the right to live in the manner they were accustomed to before the divorce—or, if that is not possible, it is expected that each spouse will share in any decline in living standards. Furthermore, Florida law values all contributions to a marriage equally. Some of those contributions—notably, the raising of children and caring for elderly parents—might not have produced income, but they are no less important in the eyes of the law. The goal of spousal support (alimony) is to protect the lower-earning spouse from disproportionate financial hardship after the divorce.

If a disagreement over maintenance has to go to court, the judge will likely consider these factors:

• The length of the marriage
• The age of the spouses
• The health of the spouses
• The income available to each spouse
• The standard of living that was enjoyed during the marriage
• The parenting responsibilities of each spouse after the divorce
• The time it will take for the lower-earning spouse to effectively ramp up a new career
• Any other factor the judge considers relevant can also be introduced

We aim to achieve fair support arrangements that reflect both the financial realities and personal sacrifices made during the marriage. Our Tampa divorce attorneys are skilled in negotiating terms that consider everything from career breaks taken for family responsibilities to future earning capacity and educational opportunities of each spouse. They meticulously prepare for potential court deliberations, are rigorous in evaluating the nuances of income sources, and are diligent in portraying a comprehensive picture of spousal support needs.

Sessums Law Group, P.A. has Florida Bar board-certified lawyers ready to help. Call (813) 212-8330 today or contact us online.

Why Choose Sessums Law Group, P.A. For Your Tampa Divorce

Choosing the right law firm for a divorce in Tampa is about more than just filing paperwork; it is about having a team that understands how every decision you make now can affect your future. At Sessums Law Group, P.A., we draw on our board-certified qualifications in marital and family law and civil trial law to evaluate both the immediate and long-term implications of property, parenting, and support issues. Because we regularly handle matters in Hillsborough County and surrounding Central Florida courts, we are familiar with local procedures and expectations, which helps us prepare clients for what to expect at each stage.

Our team approach means that when you work with a Tampa divorce attorney at our firm, you benefit from the collective insight of attorneys who routinely address complex situations such as closely held businesses, professional practices, and high-conflict parenting disputes. We take the time to explain your options in plain language, outline likely scenarios, and help you weigh risk versus benefit before you decide how to move forward. For clients who are more comfortable communicating in Spanish, our bilingual services ensure that important details are understood and questions can be addressed without language barriers.

Frequently Asked Questions

How Long Does a Divorce Usually Take in Florida?

The length of a divorce case depends on how many issues are contested and how quickly spouses can exchange information and negotiate. A simplified or uncontested divorce, where both parties agree on all terms, may be resolved in a few months once required disclosures and hearings are completed. Contested matters, especially those involving disputed parenting issues or complex assets, often take longer because of discovery, mediation, and court scheduling.

Do I Have to Go to Court for a Divorce in Tampa?

Many divorce cases in Tampa are resolved without a full trial, but you should expect at least one brief court appearance so a judge can review and finalize your agreement. If you and your spouse cannot agree on some or all terms, additional hearings may be necessary for temporary matters or to resolve disputed issues. Mediation is commonly used to narrow disagreements before the court is asked to make final decisions.

What Should I Bring to My First Consultation About Divorce?

For an initial divorce consultation, it is helpful to bring basic financial information such as recent pay stubs, tax returns, and a list of major assets and debts. If there are children, a general outline of current parenting responsibilities and schedules can also be useful. These materials allow the attorney to give more tailored guidance about potential approaches, likely areas of dispute, and the documentation you will need as your case progresses.