Florida Family Law Blog

Straightforward answers to top family law questions in Fort Lauderdale

If you’re currently going through a family legal issue in Fort Lauderdale—whether it’s divorce, custody disputes (called time-sharing in Florida), paternity, child support, or alimony—you probably have a million questions and not enough clear answers. That’s exactly why we created this blog. 

At Shemtov Hillstrom, we know how stressful and confusing Florida family law can be, so we’re here to provide you with the clarity and support you need to take control of your situation. Think of this as your go-to guide for real, straightforward legal insights. 

In our blogs, we break down complicated topics like how alimony and child support work, what counts as marital property, what to expect in a custody case, and how to modify a support order—all in a way that makes sense. 

With years of experience inside and outside the courtroom, our trial-tested Fort Lauderdale family law attorneys give you the knowledge you need to make smart, informed decisions about your future.

Check back often for new posts, legal tips, and honest advice—because when it comes to protecting yourself and your family, the more you know, the better prepared you’ll be.

Divorce

Even when you and your spouse are more or less on the same page, divorce is rarely simple. From splitting assets and retirement accounts to child custody, alimony, and legal fees, there are a lot of moving parts that can make the process overwhelming.

Our divorce blog dives into these topics, providing answers to common questions around how assets are divided and what’s included, who has to pay attorney fees in a divorce, whether or not dating while separated is considered cheating, how infidelity during marriage can impact a divorce settlement, and the unique considerations involved in a Jewish divorce.

Child and spousal support (alimony)

Without a doubt, a significant concern for anyone going through a divorce is how it will impact their finances. So, whether you anticipate you’ll be providing or receiving financial support, you need to understand how child support and alimony payments are calculated, what’s required to challenge or modify a support order, and the impact of 50/50 custody on child support. 

Florida law takes several factors into account, including income, parenting time, and financial needs, but the process isn’t always straightforward. Whether you’re seeking support, being asked to pay, or looking to modify an existing order, this blog will help you understand how the law might impact your bottom line.

Child custody and time-sharing

In Fort Lauderdale and throughout Florida, family courts favor shared parental responsibility, meaning both parents should play an active role in major decisions about their child’s upbringing. However, even after a parenting plan has been established and approved by the courts, disputes often arise over issues like how far a parent can move with joint custody and at what age a child can refuse to see a parent. 

For parents who were never married or fathers who aren’t listed on the birth certificate, these challenges can be even more complex. Establishing paternity is about more than just a name on a birth certificate—it determines a father’s legal rights. In cases where children are born outside of marriage, the mother may have sole parental responsibility until paternity is legally established, which can lead to disputes over visitation, financial support, and parental involvement. 

Courts prioritize the child’s best interests, so if there are serious safety issues—like in cases of domestic abuse—sole custody may be awarded to one parent, but proving what’s best isn’t always simple. This blog will provide crucial insights into how Florida courts handle these cases to help parents protect their rights, secure fair time-sharing arrangements, and ensure the well-being of their children.

Still have questions about a family law issue in Fort Lauderdale? We can help!

When it comes to family law in Florida, you need more than just legal advice—you need an attorney who can effectively fight for what matters most. At Shemtov Hillstrom, our seasoned Fort Lauderdale family law attorneys are former prosecutors, so they bring trial-tested experience to every case, giving you an edge in negotiations and the courtroom. 

We know that no two cases are the same, which is why we take the time to understand your unique situation and craft a strategy that works for you. Whether you need a fierce advocate in a custody dispute, strong representation in a divorce, or help enforcing court orders, we’re here to guide you every step of the way. 

Contact Shemtov Hillstrom today to schedule a free consultation.