Orlando Contested Divorce Lawyer
Strong Advocacy for High-Conflict Divorce Cases
The Donna Hung Law Group practices family law in Orlando to guide clients through some of the most challenging and emotionally charged experiences they may ever face. When spouses cannot agree on key issues such as property division, alimony, child custody, or child support, the divorce becomes contested. Contested divorces require skilled negotiation, detailed preparation, and strong courtroom advocacy. Our attorneys are here to protect your rights, fight for your goals, and ensure that your voice is heard throughout the entire process.
Clients of the Donna Hung Law Group receive clear communication, practical advice, and consistent support as they navigate the complexities of their contested divorce. Our Orlando contested divorce lawyers take a strategic, solution-oriented approach, working diligently to present compelling evidence, negotiate fair arrangements, and advocate for the best possible outcome.
Understanding Contested Divorce in Florida
A contested divorce occurs when spouses do not agree on one or more key issues. Florida is a no-fault divorce state, which means the court does not require proof of wrongdoing; however, disagreements over financial matters, parenting arrangements, or future obligations can lead to a lengthy and complex process.
Contested divorces often involve multiple court hearings, mediation sessions, and extensive legal filings. Our attorneys guide you through each step with clarity and preparedness.
Key Considerations in a Florida Contested Divorce
A contested divorce involves several legal considerations that can significantly impact your future. Here are some of the primary issues that arise during contested divorce proceedings:
Child Custody and Parenting Plans
One of the most challenging aspects of a contested divorce is determining child custody. Florida courts prioritize the best interests of the child when making custody decisions. Factors such as the child’s relationship with each parent, each parent’s ability to provide stability, and any history of abuse or neglect will be considered. A well-structured parenting plan will outline time-sharing arrangements, parental responsibilities, and decision-making authority.
Division of Marital Assets and Debts
Florida follows the principle of equitable distribution, which means that marital property is divided fairly but not necessarily equally. Disputes often arise over real estate, retirement accounts, investments, and personal assets. Courts will consider factors such as the length of the marriage, contributions of each spouse, and any economic misconduct when determining asset division.
Spousal Support (Alimony)
Alimony may be awarded to one spouse based on financial need and the other spouse’s ability to pay. There are several types of alimony in Florida, including bridge-the-gap, rehabilitative, durational, and permanent alimony. The court evaluates factors such as the standard of living during the marriage, each spouse’s income and earning potential, and the duration of the marriage when determining spousal support.
Disputes Over Prenuptial and Postnuptial Agreements
If a couple has a prenuptial or postnuptial agreement in place, disputes may arise regarding its validity and enforceability. Courts will review the agreement to ensure that it was entered into voluntarily and without coercion, as well as whether both parties had full financial disclosure at the time of signing.
Domestic Violence and Protective Orders
In cases where domestic violence is a factor, protective measures such as restraining orders may be necessary. The court may consider evidence of domestic violence when making custody and spousal support determinations. If you are facing domestic violence allegations or need protection from an abusive spouse, legal representation is essential.
Common Issues in Contested Divorce
The disagreements that lead to contested divorce typically involve:
- Child custody and parenting plans
- Time-sharing schedules
- Child support
- Spousal support (alimony)
- Division of marital assets and debts
- Business ownership and valuation
- Retirement accounts and pensions
- Real estate or investment property
- Domestic violence or safety concerns
- Attorney’s fees and litigation costs
The more issues in dispute, the more complicated the divorce becomes. Our firm helps clients prioritize their goals and build strong legal strategies.
Why Contested Divorce Happens
Divorce is never an easy process, and when spouses cannot agree on key issues such as child custody, asset division, or spousal support, the divorce becomes contested. A contested divorce requires litigation, which can make the process more complex, time-consuming, and emotionally draining. If you are facing a contested divorce in Orlando, understanding your rights, obligations, and legal options is crucial. Working with an experienced Orlando contested divorce attorney can help protect your interests and ensure a fair resolution.
Couples dispute divorce terms for many reasons, including:
- Strong emotional conflict
- Distrust or poor communication
- Financial disagreements
- Complicated assets
- Different expectations regarding custody
- Allegations of misconduct
- Unequal financial knowledge or power dynamics
We help clients navigate these emotionally fueled disputes while focusing on logical, evidence-driven solutions.
The Role of Mediation in Contested Divorce
Florida requires most couples to participate in mediation before going to trial. Mediation is a structured negotiation process with a neutral mediator who helps the parties attempt to resolve disputes.
Benefits include:
- Reducing court time and legal costs
- Creating more flexible, personalized agreements
- Allowing parents to maintain greater control over parenting plans
- Encouraging cooperation rather than litigation
Even when emotions run high, mediation often leads to partial or full resolution. If mediation fails, our attorneys are fully prepared for trial.
Preparing for a Contested Divorce
Preparation is essential in contested divorces. Clients play a critical role in gathering documents, organizing information, and identifying priorities. We help clients prepare by:
- Collecting financial records
- Identifying marital vs. non-marital property
- Documenting parenting involvement
- Analyzing expenses and income
- Tracking communication and events
- Preparing for depositions or hearings
Thorough preparation strengthens your case and improves your ability to negotiate effectively.
Evidence Used in Contested Divorce Cases
Contested divorces often require detailed evidence to support your position. Evidence may include:
- Text messages, emails, and communication records
- Bank statements and financial documents
- Tax returns
- Medical or school records
- Witness testimony
- Photographs or digital evidence
- Expert evaluations
- Business records or financial analysis
Our firm works with financial experts, appraisers, mental health professionals, and parenting evaluators when necessary to strengthen your case.
Contested Child Custody Matters
Child custody is one of the most emotional and heavily litigated issues in contested divorce. Parents may disagree about:
- Time-sharing schedules
- Decision-making authority
- Relocation
- Schooling, health care, or religious decisions
- Allegations of abuse or neglect
- Parenting styles and communication
Florida courts prioritize the child’s best interests, and our attorneys advocate strongly to protect your parental rights and achieve a parenting arrangement that supports your child’s stability and well-being.
Financial Disputes in Contested Divorce
Financial matters often play a major role in contested divorces. Common disputes include:
- Alimony amounts and duration
- Distribution of debts
- Valuation of real estate or businesses
- Division of investments or retirement accounts
- Claims of hidden assets
We take a structured approach to financial disputes, ensuring all assets and liabilities are disclosed, valued correctly, and divided fairly.
Domestic Violence and Contested Divorce
When domestic violence is a factor, contested divorces become even more complex. Protective orders, supervised visitation, and safety concerns may affect custody and negotiations. Our firm provides strong advocacy for survivors and ensures that safety is addressed from the beginning.
What to Do If You Are Involved in a Contested Divorce
If your divorce is contested, take the following steps early to protect your interests:
- Consult an attorney before filing or responding
- Gather financial and personal records
- Document communication with your spouse
- Record your involvement in your child’s life
- Avoid hostile communication
- Remain transparent and honest with your attorney
- Prepare for potential mediation or trial
Making informed decisions early is critical to achieving a favorable outcome.
What Happens During Contested Divorce Litigation
Litigation involves several stages.
Filing and Response
One spouse files the petition, and the other responds with their own requests or counterclaims.
Discovery Phase
Both sides exchange documents, take depositions, and request evidence.
Temporary Motions
Hearings may occur to address:
- Temporary custody
- Temporary support
- Property possession
- Protection orders
Mediation
Courts require mediation to attempt settlement before trial.
Trial
If the case does not settle, a judge will make the final decisions after reviewing evidence and hearing testimony.
Final Judgment
The judge’s ruling becomes legally binding and enforceable.
Comprehensive Orlando Family Law Practice
The Donna Hung Law Group handles a wide range of divorce and family matters. In addition to contested divorce, our attorneys assist clients with:
- High net worth divorce
- Complex financial disputes
- Parenting and custody matters
- Alimony and spousal support
- Property and debt division
- Domestic violence injunctions
- Enforcement and modification
- Mediation and settlement
Our firm is committed to protecting your rights and guiding you toward a more stable future.
Orlando Family Courthouse Information
Contested divorce cases are heard at the Ninth Judicial Circuit Court of Florida.
Orange County Courthouse
425 N. Orange Avenue
Orlando, FL 32801
Phone: (407) 836-2000
Website: www.ninthcircuit.org
These cases often involve multiple hearings and significant judicial review.
Orlando Contested Divorce FAQs
Navigating a contested divorce requires strategic planning and skilled legal representation. The Donna Hung Law Group provides comprehensive legal support for individuals facing divorce disputes in Orlando. The firm’s attorneys have extensive experience handling complex divorce cases, ensuring that clients receive knowledgeable and aggressive representation throughout the legal process.
How long does a contested divorce take?
It depends on the complexity of the disputes, but many take months to over a year.
Do I have to go to trial?
Not always. Many contested divorces settle through mediation or negotiation.
What if my spouse refuses to cooperate?
Florida law provides tools to compel disclosure and participation.
Can contested divorce become uncontested later?
Yes. With agreement, the case may resolve without trial.
Does contested divorce cost more?
Because of the added court time, evidence, and expert involvement, contested cases typically cost more than uncontested ones.
Serving Throughout Orlando
- Baldwin Park
- College Park
- Lake Nona
- Winter Park
- Thornton Park
- Dr. Phillips
- MetroWest
- Hunters Creek
- Avalon Park
- Windermere
- Celebration
- Waterford Lakes
- Mills 50 District
- Audubon Park
- Conway
- South Eola
- Bay Hill
- Lake Como
- Lake Mary
- Vista Lakes
Orlando Contested Divorce Lawyers Here for You When You Need Us
At the Donna Hung Law Group, we understand the stress and uncertainty that come with contested divorce. Our attorneys provide strong courtroom advocacy, strategic planning, and clear communication so you can move forward with confidence. Whether your case involves complex finances, difficult custody issues, or intense conflict, we are here to protect your rights every step of the way.
Call the Donna Hung Law Group at 407-999-0099 to schedule a confidential consultation and begin building your legal strategy.
