Divorce Attorney and Mediator

Serving St. Johns, Putnam, Flagler & Volusia Counties

At St. Johns Law Group, we understand that divorce, also known as dissolution of marriage, is one of the most emotional and life-changing experiences a person can face. Whether you’re planning to file or responding to a petition, getting early, experienced legal guidance is critical.

We are proud to offer the legal knowledge and compassion of Attorney Rachael Greene, a Florida Supreme Court Certified Family Law Mediator, and Attorney Felecia Walker, alongside a dedicated team of family law professionals.

Why Hire an Experienced Divorce Attorney Early?

Your spouse may already be speaking with or hiring an attorney. Understanding your legal position before taking action—or reacting—is key.

If you reside in St. Johns, Putnam, Flagler, or Volusia County, the Seventh Judicial Circuit issues a Standing Family Law Court Order as soon as a divorce case is filed. This order imposes legal obligations that can significantly affect your rights and responsibilities depending on whether you are the petitioner or the respondent.

What Makes St. Johns Law Group Different?

• Decades of experience in Florida family law

• Certified mediators and trial-ready litigators

• Tailored strategy based on the unique dynamics of your case

• Local knowledge of court procedures and judges

• Compassionate guidance through emotional decisions

Whether your case is uncontested or contested, involves children or not, we are ready to guide and advocate for you every step of the way.

Understanding Divorce in Florida

❯ What Is “Dissolution of Marriage”?

Florida refers to divorce legally as “dissolution of marriage.” The term reflects the legal process of ending the marital partnership and resolving associated legal matters.

❯ What Does “No-Fault” State Mean?

Florida is a no-fault state, meaning that you don’t need to prove wrongdoing to obtain a divorce. The only requirement is that the marriage is irretrievably broken.
However, misconduct may still factor into decisions about:

• Alimony

• Division of assets

• Parental responsibility
  For example, if a spouse wastes marital funds on an affair, the court may consider that when dividing property.

The Divorce Process in Florida

Filing for Divorce

Either spouse can file if:

• A legal marriage exists

• One spouse has lived in Florida for at least 6 months

• The marriage is irretrievably broken

Types of Divorce

• Simplified Dissolution: Available for couples without children, alimony claims, or complex assets—if both spouses agree on all terms.

• Regular Dissolution: Required if there are children, alimony is requested, or the parties disagree on terms.

Initial Steps

• File a Petition for Dissolution of Marriage

• The other spouse must file a response within 20 days

• A Counter-Petition may also be filed with additional requests

Financial Disclosure Requirements

Both parties must exchange:

• Financial Affidavits

• Supporting documents (e.g., bank statements, pay stubs)

• Child Support Worksheet, if applicable

Failure to comply may result in sanctions, dismissal, or waived rights.

What Happens During the Case?

• Discovery: Exchange of evidence and documents

• Case Management Conferences: Regular court check-ins

• Social Investigations / Guardian ad Litem: May be appointed for child-related concerns

• Therapy or Parenting Classes: Sometimes ordered to support family welfare

• Mediation: Required if no settlement is reached voluntarily

• Trial: If unresolved, the case proceeds to a non-jury trial, where the judge makes final decisions

Get Answers, Get Support

We’re here to protect your rights and support your family during this challenging time. Whether you need a skilled divorce litigator or a neutral mediator, our team has the experience and resources to help you make informed decisions.

Call today: 904.495.0400
Email us: info@sjlawgroup.com