Florida Family Law Lawyer
At the Law Offices of Arcadier, Biggie & Wood, we know that there is nothing more important than family. When changes to your family structure result in disputes, contact our Florida family law lawyer for guidance. As a full-service, AV-rated law firm, we are uniquely positioned to deliver comprehensive solutions to all of your legal matters, including divorce, child custody, adoption, and more. Start the journey towards resolution by scheduling a consultation with our family attorneys today.
A Strategic Approach To Family Law
Family law matters are emotionally charged. It is not easy to put aside personal differences when a loved one is involved. Our attorneys handle family legal issues with compassion and empathy and work diligently to reach a solution that appeals to everyone’s best interests and goals.
One of the most common family law matters our lawyers handle is divorce, separation, and child custody. Deciding to leave your spouse is life-changing, and disputes are common, especially if there is no prenup in place. Our Florida family law lawyer will listen to your concerns, answer your questions, and outline a strategy that puts you in the best position possible post-divorce. From negotiating with your ex’s attorney to mediating the division of assets, establishing financial support, and finalizing a parenting plan, we make sure that your divorce agreement sets you up for a promising future.
We are also skilled at advocating for adjustments to existing agreements, including alimony increases/decreases and custody changes. Our attorney takes on the task of filing with the court, drafting a new agreement, and presenting your case effectively. For families looking to expand, we can also assist with the legal aspects of adoption.
Our team is well-versed in Florida laws and leverages this knowledge to protect your rights, finances, and overall well-being. We have experience handling disputes involving abusive or neglectful family members and have access to resources to help you secure the safety of you and your children.
Why Experience Matters In Family Law Cases
When it comes to divorce, your entire future can depend on the outcome of your finalized agreement. You need an attorney who is a skilled negotiator and prepared to advocate for you in court. Our family law attorneys have extensive experience in these matters and have an arsenal of legal arguments and resources at their disposal to deliver an optimal outcome in your case.
When you partner with our law firm, you will benefit from a team backed by:
- Over 75 years of combined legal experience
- A group of six skilled attorneys
- Award-winning legal services recognized by Lawyers.com and Martindale-Hubbell / LexisNexis
- 24/7 live call answering
Dealing with family law issues can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to take on these matters alone. Let the Law Offices of Arcadier, Biggie & Wood stand up for you. Our Florida family law lawyer will make sure your voice is heard and aggressively represent your interests. Don’t wait to get the legal guidance you need. Call now to schedule a consultation with our esteemed attorneys.
Types Of Family Law Cases We Handle
At the Law Offices of Arcadier, Biggie & Wood, we take pride in providing thorough, results-driven family law services to individuals and families throughout Florida. With over 75 years of combined legal experience, our Florida family law lawyer is trusted by clients across Melbourne and Brevard County for both our professional skill and our unwavering commitment to personal service. Family law touches every part of a person’s life—emotions, finances, relationships, and futures. That’s why our approach balances legal strategy with empathy and straightforward guidance.
Divorce And Legal Separation
Divorce is one of the most common legal matters we handle, and also one of the most life-changing for our clients. Whether your separation is amicable or contested, we provide practical and steady counsel from the initial filing through final settlement or judgment. Our attorneys work to protect your rights while pursuing fair outcomes in areas such as equitable distribution of marital assets, retirement accounts, debts, and real estate. We also advise on temporary support arrangements and how to prepare for life after divorce.
Child Custody And Parenting Plans
Few matters are more sensitive than the care and custody of children. We help clients develop and formalize parenting plans that reflect the best interests of the child while maintaining meaningful relationships with both parents. Whether you are seeking primary custody, shared custody, or modifications to an existing plan, our lawyers are skilled at negotiating child-focused solutions—and litigating when necessary. We prioritize the child’s stability and safety while advocating strongly for your parental rights.
Child Support
Child support is more than just numbers on a page—it’s about providing for your child’s needs now and into the future. Our firm assists both custodial and non-custodial parents in calculating and modifying child support based on Florida’s guidelines. We help make sure all sources of income are fairly assessed and work to avoid overpayments or underpayments. If enforcement becomes necessary, we can take legal action to hold the other party accountable for unpaid support.
Spousal Support (Alimony)
Spousal support—often called alimony—may be appropriate when one spouse has a significant economic disadvantage following a divorce. Whether you are seeking support or being asked to pay it, we guide you through your legal rights and obligations. Our Florida family law lawyer evaluates all factors considered by Florida courts, including the length of the marriage, standard of living, and both parties’ earning capacities. We also represent clients in modifications when financial circumstances change.
Property Division And Asset Protection
In divorce and separation cases, dividing property can become a major point of contention. Our family attorneys work to uncover all marital assets and liabilities to make sure our clients receive a fair share. We also assist with identifying separate (non-marital) property and strategizing around high-value assets such as businesses, retirement accounts, and real estate. Whether your case is settled or litigated, our goal is to protect your financial future.
Domestic Violence And Protective Orders
If you are experiencing threats, harassment, or violence in a family or household setting, we can act quickly to help protect your safety. Our attorneys file for restraining orders and represent clients in injunction hearings. We also defend those wrongfully accused of domestic violence. Your physical and emotional safety are our top priorities, and we take every legal step necessary to provide immediate and long-term protection.
Paternity And Parental Rights
Establishing paternity can have a major impact on both parents’ rights and responsibilities. Whether you are a mother seeking child support or a father pursuing visitation or custody rights, our team provides experienced legal guidance in establishing legal paternity. Once paternity is confirmed, we work with you to build parenting time agreements and fair child support arrangements. We approach these cases with sensitivity and attention to the long-term relationships involved.
Experienced Representation In Family Law Matters
At the Law Offices of Arcadier, Biggie & Wood, we offer more than just legal knowledge—we offer clear, experienced counsel built on years of helping families throughout Florida move forward. Our attorneys are trusted for their professionalism, discretion, and commitment to securing outcomes that support your family’s best interests long after your case is resolved. Our Florida family law lawyer has helped hundreds of clients take the next step toward financial stability, healthy co-parenting, and long-term peace of mind. If you’re facing a family law matter, don’t go through it alone. Contact us today to schedule a confidential consultation with our seasoned family law attorney who understands your situation and knows how to help.
What To Do Immediately After Being Served With Divorce Papers
We understand that being served with divorce papers can be a daunting and emotional experience. With decades of combined legal experience, our team is committed to providing clear, compassionate, and effective legal support tailored to your unique circumstances. Our Florida family law lawyer is here to guide you through the challenges of family law and help you make informed decisions during this challenging time. If you’ve recently been served with divorce papers, it’s essential to take immediate and thoughtful action. Your response in the first few days can significantly impact the outcome of your case.
Carefully Review The Divorce Papers
Upon receiving the divorce papers, take the time to read each document thoroughly. Pay close attention to the summons, response deadlines, and any temporary orders that may be in place, such as restrictions on financial accounts or child custody arrangements. Understanding these details is vital to make sure you meet all necessary deadlines and respond appropriately.
Consult With Our Experienced Family Law Attorney
Engaging with our knowledgeable family law attorney promptly is one of the most important steps you can take. Our Florida family law lawyer can help you understand your rights, explain the legal process, and develop a strategy tailored to your situation. We can also assist in drafting and filing your response to the divorce petition, so that your interests are adequately represented.
File Your Response On Time
In Florida, you typically have 20 days from the date you were served to file a response to the divorce petition. Failing to respond within this timeframe can result in a default judgment, where the court may grant your spouse’s requests without considering your side. It’s essential to work with our Florida attorney to prepare and file your response promptly.
Gather Financial Documentation
Divorce proceedings often involve the division of assets and liabilities. To facilitate a fair distribution, collect and organize all relevant financial documents, including:
- Tax returns (typically the last three years)
- Bank statements
- Investment and retirement account records
- Pay stubs
- Real estate documents
- Debt records (credit cards, loans, mortgages)
Having these documents ready creates a smoother legal process and helps our attorney build a strong case on your behalf.
Protect Your Assets
To safeguard your financial interests, consider opening a separate bank account in your name alone. While you cannot transfer marital assets into this account, you can deposit your income to keep it separate from joint funds. Additionally, update passwords for online accounts and monitor financial transactions to prevent unauthorized access or depletion of assets.
Maintain Open Communication With Our Attorney
Throughout the divorce process, maintain regular communication with our lawyer. Keep us informed of any developments or concerns, and promptly provide any requested documentation. Our attorney is your advocate and can offer guidance on how to handle negotiations, court proceedings, and potential settlement options.
Consider Alternative Dispute Resolution
Not all divorce cases require lengthy court battles. Explore alternative dispute resolution methods, such as mediation or arbitration, which can be more cost-effective and less adversarial. Discuss these options with our attorney to determine if they are suitable for your situation.
Legal Support For Your Divorce Journey
At the Law Offices of Arcadier, Biggie & Wood, we are dedicated to providing compassionate and skilled legal support during your divorce proceedings. Our team brings a wealth of experience and a client-centered approach to each case. If you have been served with divorce papers, contact our Florida family law lawyer today to schedule a consultation and take the first step toward resolving your family law matters with confidence.
