
Legal Separation Lawyer in Jacksonville
Legal Separation vs. Divorce in Florida
Florida is one of nine states across the country that does not formally recognize a "legal separation." Instead, when a couple having marital problems realizes they need to be apart in order to calm the situation down, they can separate without any sort of court hearing. If there are children involved, the family law courts in Jacksonville do recognize the need for both parents to continue to provide for the welfare and support of the children during such a separation, and will act to safeguard their best interests in the situation.
When you have questions about the legal and practical aspects involved in separating from your spouse, you are invited to contact us at Jason K.S. Porter, P.A. We can provide you with an initial consultation to review your options and give you the information necessary to make an informed decision.
Common Reasons Couples Choose to Separate
Why should you pursue a legal separation? Many couples choose this course of action out of a desire to observe deeply held religious prohibitions against divorce, as it makes it possible to effectively bring about the conditions of a dissolution of marriage without violating their religious convictions. Some do so in order to avoid losing health care coverage or other benefits, while others are hoping to salvage the relationship and merely want to impose time and space between themselves to let a heated situation cool down.
Perhaps one of the best reasons to legally separate is as a precursor to divorce—you and your spouse can test out terms of alimony, such as property division and child custody, to find out what works best for both parties, thereby avoiding a costly and protracted contested divorce and the necessity of post-decree modifications, which can be difficult to secure.
Even though Florida does not legally recognize separation, it is possible to petition the court for an order to pay child support to the parent who has primary custody of the children. We can help you and your spouse prepare the necessary agreements for a separation including financial support, child custody and visitation.
When a married couple decides to live apart, does not share a common bank account and each pays their own living expenses, they are considered separated. It is always helpful to put the agreements governing such an arrangement in writing, to avoid conflicts over assumed agreements and misunderstandings. If you are separated and are now needing child support or are being asked for child support, we can help you ensure that your children are properly cared for and their needs are met.
Actions for Support in Jacksonville
A petition for child support is called an "action for support." While it is a mandatory step of any divorce proceeding when children are involved, the parent seeking support during a separation must file it personally. Alimony or spousal support is often much more difficult to secure in our state outside of a divorce proceeding, so it is in your best interests to retain a skilled attorney who can effectively advocate on your behalf.
At the Law Offices of Jason K.S. Porter, P.A., our Jacksonville separation attorneys are sincerely committed to defending our clients' best interests, and will work diligently to help you secure a separation agreement which works in your favor. Whether it is a short term arrangement or a plan which you expect to use for many years, you should realize that the terms of the agreement may have a significant impact on your life, determining whether you are financially stable and can spend as much time with your children as you would like.
Let us guide you through this process, contact us today to get started! Pick Porter!™
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Hear From Our Happy Clients
Serving Jacksonville, FL Since 2004
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I haven't had a lot of legal problems in my life but enough to truly evaluate my attorneys. By far Jason Porter makes you feel like you are his only client. He knows the law and the legal loop holes. To boot he is a heck of a nice guy. You can trust him with your life. You feel that he loves his work and really cares about you. You couldn't find a better lawyer anywhere.- Ed W.
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Mr. Porter is an excellent attorney. He helped me and my teenage son through a very difficult situation. He was right there immediately ensuring we had representation. He even called to follow up to ensure we were ok. He is very passionate about helping his clients. He also does not try to charge you if he knows you don’t have a case. He’s very honest and a great person. Highly recommend him if you need legal advice. Kelley- K.H.
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It always baffled me how much both Jason and Gary knew about the intricacies of my case at any given time. These guys work for, and show up to court for, their CLIENTS - in other words, they're not cutting a bunch of deals to clear dockets. I will never go anywhere else for legal advice - these guys are the real deal.- Meagan V.
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Mr. Porter and his staff do an incredible job! I would strongly recommend Mr. Porter, he is very easy to work with and does everything he can to help you in your situation.- N.B.
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I retained The Law Offices of Jason K.S. Porter, P.A. a few years back. They were honest, personable, reasonable, and effective. I would recommend a consultation for any legal matter. If it is out of their field of expertise, they will advise you of that as well.- Lido B.
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There are times when you may need unforeseen legal assistance and your scared and don't have a clue if youre making the right choice. The decision is not an easy one when it's based on your family and life. You worry if they have your best interest at heart, if they know enough, if they know the right people and it's very emotional & confusing. Ten years ago my family was faced with the worst nightmare any mother could ever imagine & I prayed to God to make the right decision and I did. Meeting Jason Porter & his assistant Darlene C. (she's been with him longer than that), was the best in my life in my family's life. Jason doesn't have a big office turn around, in fact I have watched his office grow to the success it is today. His staff stays because they know they are with a terrific guy & great attorney. I can go on and on and mean every word from the bottom of my heart but the are truly no words to describe the great outcomes he has had for 2 of my sons on separate occasions. Unfortunately, we don't live in a society anymore where "boys will be boys". There are way too many laws and not enough of societal morality (due to a change of the times). Boys may get in trouble, they did get in trouble but with their unfortunate choices, my choice was the better in retaining Jason and his law firm. He is our family attorney forever.- Anonymous
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I have to go into detail here because there’s no way That I cannot give high praise for what Nicole Carlucci did for my daughter and I. I’ve learned the hardest way possible that men tend to be at a great disadvantage when dealing with a divorce and with custody problems. My ex-wife kidnapped our child and had every intention of destroying our bond and the great relationship we have. It’s the saddest thing in the world how some people take their own struggles and personal feelings out by using their children as pawns and manipulating to hurt others. Which is why I could not be happier and more grateful for the day I walked into Porter & Porter Law Firm. From day one, my story was heard, understood, and through a year and a half of what felt like full on war just so I could maintain my relationship with me daughter without us being ripped from each other’s lives, Nicole Carlucci supported me and used her expertise to get as close to the absolute best result possible. She never gave up or gave in and that helped me to stay strong, too, when there would be days or weeks my daughter and I would not see each other. If not for Nicole, I can only imagine how much more awful such a nightmare of a situation could have gotten. However, I am now divorced, continue to have an amazing relationship with my daughter, and have court orders to hold my ex responsible and accountable so that way certain things will hopefully never happen again, and if they do, I know who I am calling!! Nicole’s passion to help someone being taking advantage of and her drive to ensure justice be served when someone is manipulating the system is exactly what my daughter and I needed so we can live a happy life. Thank you Nicole and Firm!!- Robert B.
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I meet with Mr. Porter today, he was so helpful with my situation. He was kind and should true compassion for this situation. He gave me information I have not been able to get anywhere else and I have tried. He gave me hope that there is light at the end of this tunnel. I have a much better understanding of what I need to do and how to proceed with this situation. I am grateful that Mr. Porter gave me the time and attention that he did today. I would encourage anyone needing help in a criminal case, no matter how big or small go and see Mr. Porter, I can assure you that you will not be disappointed. Mr. Porter thank you for your time today and all of the information you provided me with, it is appreciated beyond belief.- Rena P.
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