Family Law
C. Michael Kelly, P. A.
Empathetic Legal Support for Your Family Matters
At C. Michael Kelly, P. A., I understand that family law encompasses a broad spectrum of legal matters that deeply affect individuals and families. With my experience, I provide comprehensive legal support for all aspects of family law in Bradenton, Sarasota, and Arcadia, FL. From navigating divorce and custody disputes to facilitating adoptions and addressing domestic violence issues, I am committed to guiding my clients through these challenges with empathy, integrity, and skill.
The end of a marriage can be emotionally and legally complex. I provide guidance and support to clients navigating divorce and separation, helping them understand their rights and options regarding asset division, spousal support, and child custody arrangements. I empower my clients to make informed decisions about their futures as they transition to the next chapter of their lives.
Protecting the best interests of children is a top priority in any family law matter involving custody and support. I advocate tirelessly for my clients' parental rights while prioritizing the well-being of their children. I assist clients in negotiating custody agreements, modifying existing arrangements, and ensuring that child support obligations are fair and equitable.
Building a family through adoption or surrogacy is a joyful and life-changing experience. I provide legal guidance and support to individuals and couples navigating the adoption or surrogacy process. I help clients understand the legal requirements, facilitate adoptions, and draft surrogacy agreements, ensuring that they can expand their families with confidence and peace of mind.
If you are facing a family law issue in Bradenton, Sarasota, or Arcadia, FL, don't navigate the legal process alone. Contact C. Michael Kelly, P. A. today to schedule a consultation with me. I am here to provide you with the compassionate guidance and skilled legal representation you need to protect your rights and achieve a favorable outcome in your family law matter.
Virtual Consultations Available
PHONE
cmichaelkellypa@gmail.com
FAX
(941)749-3185
Business Hours
- Mon - Fri
- -
- Sat - Sun
- Closed
ADDRESS
339 6th Ave. West, Bradenton, Florida, 34205
DIVORCE GROUNDS IN FLORIDA
In Florida, the legal termination of marriage, commonly referred to as divorce, can be granted based on various grounds as outlined in the state statutes. Here, we detail the grounds recognized under Florida law:
1. No-Fault Grounds: • Irretrievable Breakdown: Florida operates as a no-fault divorce state, requiring neither spouse to prove fault for divorce. The primary reason for dissolution is often cited as an "irretrievable breakdown" of the marriage, where both parties agree that the marriage is irreparable.
2. Fault-Based Grounds (less common yet applicable): • Mental Incapacity: If one spouse is deemed mentally incapacitated for a minimum of three years prior to filing for divorce, and the incapacity is deemed uncurable, it can serve as grounds for dissolution.
• Adultery: Although less common due to Florida's no-fault system, adultery can still be cited as a reason for divorce if relevant to the case.
• Desertion: Willful desertion by one spouse for at least a year without justification can be grounds for dissolution.
• Cruelty or Abuse: Instances of physical or emotional abuse towards one spouse by the other can be cited as grounds for divorce in Florida.
• Felony Conviction: A spouse's conviction of a felony and a prison sentence of at least three years can be grounds for dissolution if the other spouse does not forgive or resume cohabitation after the conviction.
It is important to note that while these fault-based grounds exist, they are less commonly used in modern divorce proceedings due to the simplicity and efficiency of no-fault divorce. No-fault divorce typically involves less conflict and is often less emotionally taxing for both parties.
In conclusion, Florida offers both no-fault and fault-based grounds for the dissolution of marriage. However, most divorces in the state are granted based on the irretrievable breakdown of the marriage, eliminating the need to assign blame to either party.
C. Michael Kelly, P.A.
