Practice Areas / Family Law / Divorce
Divorce Attorney
Straightforward legal guidance through contested and uncontested divorce in Saint Augustine and Northeast Florida.
Divorce is one of the most significant legal and personal events a person can navigate. Whether your situation is amicable or highly contested, having an attorney who communicates clearly and prepares thoroughly can make a meaningful difference in the outcome.
At The Desai Firm, we represent clients in all types of divorce matters — from straightforward uncontested filings to complex contested divorces involving significant assets, business interests, or disputes over alimony. Our approach is to give you an honest assessment of your position and build a strategy tailored to your specific goals, not a one-size-fits-all solution.
Florida is a no-fault divorce state, which means neither spouse needs to prove wrongdoing to obtain a divorce. However, fault-related conduct can still influence court decisions on alimony and, in some circumstances, asset distribution. Understanding how these factors apply to your situation requires careful legal analysis — and that's where we come in.
Common Issues We Handle
- Contested divorce (disputes over assets, alimony, or children)
- Uncontested divorce and simplified dissolution
- Division of marital assets and debts (equitable distribution)
- Division of retirement accounts (QDROs)
- Business valuation and division
- Real estate and marital home disputes
- Alimony (bridge-the-gap, durational, permanent)
- Hidden asset discovery and financial disclosure
- High-net-worth divorce
- Military divorce
What We Do
- Review all marital assets, debts, and financial records to establish a complete picture
- Identify and document marital versus non-marital property under Florida law
- Negotiate settlement agreements that protect your financial interests
- Pursue or defend alimony claims based on the relevant statutory factors
- Litigate contested divorce proceedings with thorough preparation and courtroom advocacy
- Coordinate with forensic accountants or business valuators when complex assets are at issue
- Draft or review marital settlement agreements before you sign
What to Expect
- An honest assessment of your divorce timeline and realistic expectations for outcomes
- Clear explanation of Florida's equitable distribution standard and how it applies to your assets
- Regular updates as your case progresses through negotiation or the court process
- Direct access to your attorney — not a paralegal — when you have questions
- A strategy aligned with your priorities, whether minimizing conflict or maximizing your position at trial
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does divorce take in Florida?
An uncontested divorce can be finalized in as little as 20–30 days after all paperwork is filed and the mandatory waiting period passes. Contested divorces vary widely — straightforward cases may resolve in 3–6 months, while complex matters involving significant assets, business valuation, or entrenched disputes can take 12–18 months or more.
Does Florida require separation before filing for divorce?
No. Florida does not require a period of legal separation before filing for divorce. You can file for dissolution of marriage as long as at least one spouse has been a Florida resident for at least 6 months prior to filing.
How is property divided in a Florida divorce?
Florida follows the equitable distribution standard, which means marital assets and debts are divided fairly — but not necessarily 50/50. Courts consider factors such as the length of the marriage, each spouse's economic circumstances, contributions to the marriage, and intentional dissipation of assets. Non-marital property (assets owned before the marriage or received as gifts or inheritance) is generally not subject to division.
Can I get alimony in Florida?
Alimony (now called 'spousal support' under recent legislative changes) depends on one spouse's need and the other's ability to pay. Florida courts consider factors including the length of the marriage, each spouse's earning capacity, the standard of living during the marriage, and contributions as a homemaker. Florida law was significantly amended in 2023 — if alimony is an issue in your case, it's important to consult with an attorney familiar with the current statute.
What is the difference between contested and uncontested divorce?
An uncontested divorce means both spouses agree on all terms — property division, alimony, and (if applicable) child custody and support. These cases move faster and cost less. A contested divorce means the parties disagree on one or more issues and require the court to resolve them, either through mediation or a trial. Most contested divorces settle before reaching trial.
This information is for general educational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Consult with an attorney for advice specific to your situation.