In Florida, dissolution of marriage actions, which are commonly referred to as divorces, are based on either the marriage is irretrievably broken or mental incapacity of one of the spouses. Florida does not require a party to prove fault as a grounds for divorce, i.e. no-fault divorce. Divorcing couples may settle their divorce terms outside of court through negotiation, mediation, or collaborative law. Because of high legal costs and animosity often generated by divorce litigation, many couples opt to settle their divorce rather than go the trial. In the majority of divorces, the parties utilize the services of a certified Family Law Mediator to facilitate settlement discussions and negotiations. If a case is resolved by way of an agreement, the parties do not have to participate in a timely and costly trial before a judge.
Type of Divorce
After graduation, Meshelle began her legal career in Southwest Florida. After several years as an associate, Meshelle opened her own firm so that she could personally manage her caseload and devote her time and attention to helping her clients receive the care and attention each deserves. In 2002, Leah Meshelle Snyder, P.A. opened its doors to serve the Southwest Florida community in all matters of family law and divorce.
- Uncontested Divorce - An uncontested divorce is one in which no divorce issues were disputed. In other words, the parties agree on how to resolve all issues raised in their divorce action. Such divorces usually proceed quickly through the legal process and are less expensive than contested divorces.
- Contested Divorce - In a contested divorce, the parties are unable to resolve all of the issues raised in their divorce action, such as property division, alimony, child parenting decisions, time-share schedules, child support and/or attorney’s fees. The issues may be resolved through mediation or other alternative dispute resolution methods, or by litigation in court.
- Mediated Divorce - A mediated divorce uses mediation as an alternative to litigation to resolve disputed issues and reach settlements. The parties may elect to participate in a mediated divorce prior to opening a divorce action with the Clerk of Court. If a case is already filed, the parties will be required to attend mediation in an effort to resolve or to limit the disputed issues in their divorce. At the conclusion of mediation, the parties’ settlement is memorialized in writing and ultimately submitted to the Court to become a court order.
- Collaborative Divorce - In collaborative divorce, the parties are represented by their own divorce attorneys but may jointly utilize other professionals such as financial consultants, mental health therapists, parenting coordinators, and other various specialists to resolve issues. The parties along with the team of professionals work together (collaboratively) to settle the divorce without restoring to litigation. Professional experts may help resolve conflicts and offer solutions for finances, property distribution, allocation of debts, parenting plans, and timeshare schedules. If either party decides to end the collaborative process and proceed with litigation, both parties must obtain different divorce attorneys.
- Litigated Divorce - A litigated divorce proceeds through the legal system with the final decision being made by the Judge after a trial. While most divorces are settled out of court, litigation is often necessary to protect a spouses rights and the only viable recourse when the parties cannot otherwise agree.
Fort Myers Divorce Law Firm
Are you struggling to get through complicated divorce proceedings? Leah Meshelle Snyder, P.A. has been helping Florida residents through the stress and complexities of divorce for over 20 years. Her knowledge and experience have helped countless clients put the pains of divorce behind them so they can begin to move forward. Call Leah today for your own personal consultation.
Contact Us
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Address
2077 First St.
Suite 201 Fort Myers, FL
33901-3061
Phone
239-334-1582
meshelle@lmsnyderpa.com
Hours
Mon 9 am - 5 pm
Tues 9 am - 5 pm
Wed 9 am - 5 pm
Thu 9 am - 5 pm
Fri 9 am - 5 pm
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