Coral Gables Divorce Attorneys: Meeting Your Divorce Needs With Professionalism And Empathy
Last updated on March 17, 2026
The divorce process can be full of challenges and complexities. Known as dissolution of marriage in Florida, it can involve a myriad of impactful issues, such as property division, child custody and alimony. Whether it’s a simple uncontested divorce or a contentious Miami high net worth divorce, it requires careful consideration and planning. Our experienced and caring Coral Gables divorce attorneys at Yablen Valiente are here to guide you and advocate for your best interests.
What Are The Grounds For Divorce In Coral Gables?
The state currently has just two grounds for divorce. The first is the one most Florida divorces are based on. This is the marriage being irretrievably broken. The second, less common one, is that one spouse has been legally declared mentally incapacitated for at least three years.
Filing For Divorce In Coral Gables
To start a divorce in Florida, either you or your spouse must file a divorce petition. You do so in the county circuit court where you or your spouse live. The divorce process can be regular or simplified. A simplified divorce is only available for couples without minor children who agree on property division. No matter the divorce type, our divorce attorneys can help you with the filing process.
What Can You Expect From The Divorce Process In Coral Gables?
Understanding the Florida divorce process helps you prepare for what lies ahead and make informed decisions during this challenging time. While each case is unique, most divorces in Coral Gables and throughout Florida follow a similar procedural path.
1. Filing The Petition
The divorce process begins when one spouse files a Petition for Dissolution of Marriage with the circuit court in the county where either spouse resides. The petitioner must have lived in Florida for at least six months before filing. The petition outlines basic information about the marriage, children and the relief sought.
2. Serving The Other Spouse
After filing, the petition must be formally served on the other spouse, who then has 20 days to file an answer responding to the allegations and requests in the petition. Proper service protects your legal rights and starts the clock on important deadlines.
3. Financial Disclosure
Both spouses must complete mandatory financial disclosure forms documenting income, assets, debts and expenses. Florida requires full transparency about finances, and failing to disclose assets can result in serious legal consequences. This step is critical in property division and alimony determinations.
4. Temporary Relief And Orders
During the divorce, either spouse may request temporary orders addressing immediate concerns such as temporary child custody and visitation schedules, temporary child support and spousal support, exclusive use of the marital home or vehicle, and responsibility for paying bills and debts. These orders remain in effect until the final judgment.
5. Discovery And Investigation
The discovery phase allows both sides to gather information through interrogatories, requests for production of documents, depositions and subpoenas for records. This process uncovers hidden assets, establishes income levels and builds evidence for contested issues.
6. Mediation
Florida courts typically require mediation before trial. A neutral mediator helps spouses negotiate and reach agreements on disputed issues. Many divorces settle during mediation, avoiding the time, expense and uncertainty of trial. Our attorneys prepare you thoroughly for mediation and advocate for favorable settlement terms.
7. Trial
If mediation fails to resolve all issues, the case proceeds to trial, where a judge hears evidence and testimony before making final decisions on property division, alimony, child custody and support. Trials can last days or weeks depending on complexity.
8. Final Judgment
After settlement or trial, the court issues a Final Judgment of Dissolution of Marriage. This legally binding document ends the marriage and establishes all terms regarding property, debts, children and support. Once entered, both parties must comply with its provisions.
Do I Need A Lawyer For My Coral Gables Divorce?
While you can proceed without a lawyer, having trusted Coral Gables divorce and child custody attorneys at your side can provide significant advantages. Such advocates can:
- Provide you with tailored guidance
- Protect your legal rights
- Stand up for your interests in mediation, negotiation or litigation
With a deep knowledge of Florida divorce laws, our compassionate lawyers stand ready to support you in all aspects of your case.
Contact Our Coral Gables Divorce Attorneys Today
When facing divorce, you deserve a dedicated and responsive legal team. Let us help you move forward. Reach out to our firm today by calling 305-476-5444 or sending an email.