Skip to Content
Law Offices of Jason K.S. Porter, P.A. Law Offices of Jason K.S. Porter, P.A.
Pick Porter! TM 904-701-0591
Top
Legal Separation Serving Families Throughout Jacksonville For Over 25 Years

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!™

  • A Guided, Hands-On Approach
    Step-by-Step Guidance for Any Legal Matter
  • A Compassionate Team
    Your Story Matters - We're Here to Listen
  • Extensive Experience
    Approximately 100 Years of Combined Legal Experience On Your Side
  • Award-Winning Counsel
    Top-Rated Ethics & Legal Skill – AV Preeminent® Rating
  • Trusted & Recommended
    Trusted by the Media & Recommended by Our Clients
  • Top-Rated Attorneys
    Top-Rated Personal Injury, DUI, & Criminal Defense Lawyer

Hear From Our Happy Clients

Serving Jacksonville, FL Since 2004

    "Very helpful."
    Very helpful. Always there when needed.
    - K.S.
    "This firm is head and shoulders above anyone."
    I met Jason 13 years ago in a case I had. He wasn't my first choice of lawyer originally. Our original lawyer was unable to perform the task needed at the time. Jason took our case over and worked his magic in the courtroom. People, the is no substitute for a court case. This firm is head and shoulders above anyone. If you want to go generic with your cereal that's fine. You can buy Fruit Rings instead of Froot Loops. But when choosing an attorney and your life is on the line, go with this firm. You get what you pay for. And by Picking Porter, you get so much more. Since then my entire family has used this firm for random cases. All of which we have prevailed. Most recently, Chris Craun family law attorney has helped us win yet another case. His outstanding outlook and attention to the details and knowledge of the law was the difference. Chris comes from this same tree. They know people and the law. Do not mess up by acquiring sub-par representation. You should pick Porter before your counterpart does!!!
    - Ken O.
    "If I could give 10 stars, I would"
    If I could give 10 stars, I would. I was blessed to have selected first, from a long list of lawyers, Jason Porter. From our first meeting, Jason was kind, comforting, and non-judgmental. Jason and his team fought long and hard for me, and our outcome was as predicted, far better than I was expecting considering my initial circumstances. A heart felt Thank You to Jason, Jonathan, and Darlene.
    - S.H.
    "Jonathan Thacher made me feel like I had someone on my side from beginning to end."
    I am so happy and grateful that I picked Porter!! Jonathan Thacher made me feel like I had someone on my side from beginning to end. He told me he would fight for me, and I am thrilled to say he did just that! I was always able to reach him, and he made sure to reach out to me as well...and that means a lot. I highly recommend The Porter Law Firm to any and everyone who needs legal help! They will fight for you!!! I can say, without a doubt, they have been my "Dream Team" and if I ever need any kind of legal help, I will be calling them again!!!
    - Lindsi W.
    "Jason is the best lawyer in Jacksonville."
    Jason is the best lawyer in Jacksonville. I have had the pleasure of having him represent a family member and his work was above and beyond what any other attorney would have done. He will work with you where ever he can to get the best outcome. You can trust what he says. Very high ethics .I have called him my Perry Mason, and I really mean it. If you want THE BEST trust Jason Porter, he's real.
    - Carla B.
    "Five Stars for Law Offices of Jason K.S. Porter, P.A."
    When our teen son made a poor choice and could have been facing a criminal charge, we contacted Attorney Jason Porter. Mr. Porter was not only professional, experienced and confident, he was also compassionate and understanding. His connections with the community, strong negotiating skills and empathy allowed for the best results possible for our son. Five Stars for Law Offices of Jason K.S. Porter, P.A.
    - D.A.
    "Jonathan made us feel comfortable and confident that he would work diligently on our behalf."
    The purpose of this letter is to express our appreciation for Jonathan Thacher's legal services associated with our daughter's case. Jonathan was and is always available for questions. If we left a message, he would always get back to us in a prompt fashion. It isn't easy to find such a capable lawyer who seems to be in the right job. He is caring and very attentive to us. No questions went unanswered. Jonathan made us feel comfortable and confident that he would work diligently on our behalf. In the end, we felt blessed that we had the right person to help us when we felt lost. I can't tell you how important it is to choose the right lawyers for your case. He certainly lifted a weight off our shoulder to know that Jonathan and the firm's staff were working for us and a good conclusion to our problem.
    - Edward & Sondra A.
    "They will work with you and fight for you."
    If you're reading this then it is not too late!! I too spent countless time searching for the right law firm for me personally and let me tell you that Jason Porter and associates have to be the best around town!! They will work with you and fight for you. If you have any problems, Pick PORTER. I promise you won't regret it!!!
    - Boss N.

Pick Porter!™ Today

A member of our team will be in touch shortly to confirm your contact details or address questions you may have.

  • *Motorcycle accident - $2,835,000
  • $1,502,500 Premises Liability - $1,502,500

    Bodily Injury Claim

  • *Wrongful Death - $1,000,000
  • Settled *Estate of Fred Fedorka

    Largest settlement ever against Volusia County.

  • *Medical Malpractice - $500,000