Practice Area
Family Law
Divorce, custody and time-sharing, paternity, and support matters in Palm Beach and Broward counties. Answer a few questions below and we’ll look for a participating attorney suited to your matter.
Family Law in Florida
What Florida family law actually looks like
To file for divorce in Florida, at least one spouse must have lived in the state for the 6 months immediately before filing — the other spouse doesn’t need to live in Florida at all. Once filed, Florida law requires a minimum 20-day waiting period before a final judgment can be entered, though most cases take considerably longer than that in practice.
If minor children are involved, Florida no longer uses the terms “custody” or “visitation.” Courts order a parenting plan with a time-sharing schedule, and generally presume shared parental responsibility between both parents unless the court finds that would be detrimental to the child — including on evidence of domestic violence.
Deadlines and procedures vary by case type and circumstances — confirm your specific situation with an attorney. This summary is based on Fla. Stat. §§ 61.021, 61.19, 61.13, and 741.30.
What To Expect
What shapes a family law matter
Every case turns on its specific facts — this is general information, not advice about your situation.
- 01
Every matter starts with a parenting plan question
If minor children are involved, Florida courts require a parenting plan with a time-sharing schedule — not the older term "custody." We ask about children early so the right questions follow.
- 02
Contested vs. uncontested changes everything
Matters where both parties already agree on major terms typically move faster and cost less than contested matters — this shapes what an attorney will want to know first.
- 03
Existing orders matter
Modifying a prior parenting plan or support order is a different legal standard than starting a new case — Florida generally requires a substantial, material, and unanticipated change in circumstances.
- 04
Domestic violence concerns are handled with priority
If you indicate an active safety concern, we flag your inquiry for priority review — and the Florida Domestic Violence Hotline is available 24/7 regardless of how your inquiry is handled.
Start an Inquiry
Tell us about your matter
This isn’t a request for legal advice, and it doesn’t obligate you to anything. We use your answers to look for a suitable participating attorney.
FAQ
Family law referral questions
Is this service a law firm?+
No. EzuLaw is a lawyer referral service. We connect you with participating, independently practicing Florida attorneys — we don't represent you, and we don't provide legal advice.
Do I need a lawyer for an uncontested divorce?+
Not always — some people file pro se (without a lawyer) for a simple, fully agreed divorce with no children or complex assets. Many people still choose to have an attorney review or handle the paperwork to avoid mistakes. An attorney can tell you what makes sense for your situation.
What's the difference between custody and time-sharing?+
Florida law no longer uses the term "custody." Since 2008, courts order a parenting plan that includes a time-sharing schedule and either shared or sole parental responsibility for decision-making.
Will you tell me where the attorney is located before I talk to them?+
Yes. If we identify a participating attorney for your matter, we disclose that attorney's name, firm, and location (city/county) to you as part of the referral, before any next step.
What if I have an active domestic violence concern?+
Tell us in the form — we flag those inquiries for priority review. If you're in immediate danger, call 911. The Florida Domestic Violence Hotline (1-800-500-1119) is available 24/7, independent of anything you submit here.
Does consultation with a listed attorney create representation?+
No. An attorney-client relationship is only created if and when that specific attorney agrees to take your case. Read our full referral service disclosures for details.