Tampa Lawyer Helps Divorcing Spouses With Equitable Distribution of Property
Experienced Attorney Works Diligently to Achieve Division of Assets and Debts
Determining how marital assets should be divided can be one of the most contentious aspects of divorce. Though Florida courts start their review with the presumption that the property should be split evenly, sometimes an “equitable distribution” of assets can result in an uneven distribution of the marital assets. The Law Offices of Patricia Palma, P.A. in Tampa advises divorcing spouses on the state’s equitable distribution standard and works vigorously to achieve an fair solution. Whenever possible, we seek to resolve these matters through mutual written agreement but deliver strong courtroom advocacy if consensus cannot be reached.
Florida courts consider the following factors and make a determination based on what they decide is fair and just for both parties:
- Contributions of the parties, including contributions to the care and education of the children and services as a homemaker
- The financial circumstances of the parties
- The length of the marriage
- The interruption of the personal career of one party to help develop the other’s opportunities for growth
- The importance of retaining assets, like a business, corporation or professional practice
- The contribution of each spouse to income, incurring debts
- Whether the marital home should be retained as a primary residence for children, or the other party, when it would be equitable to do so, it is in the best interest of the child or that party, and it is financially feasible for the parties to maintain the residence
- The intentional waste or destruction of marital assets after the filing of the petition or within two years prior to the filing of the petition.
Tampa Attorney Simplifying Complex Equitable Distribution Issues:
Arriving at a fair allocation of marital assets is often trickier than it seems. While monetary holdings and debts might be easily divisible, assets such as retirement accounts, business shares and investments can create problems. If necessary, we bring in appraisers and other professionals to develop a true evaluation of a marital estate’s value. Once the accurate value of the assets are determined, we can help you achieve an equitable distribution of the assets and liabilities through settlement or courtroom advocacy.
