Orlando Family Courts

Orlando family law matters are handled by the Orange County Family Law Court. The Orange County Family Law Court has jurisdiction over cases involving residents of Orlando and the surrounding cities in Orange County. The court is located at 425 North Orange Avenue, Suite 320, Orlando, FL.

Continue reading to find out more about the Orange County Family Law Court, including the types of cases they hear and what to expect during your court hearing.

What Do Family Law Courts Handle?

Family courts handle matters related to family members. They have authority to hear cases involving:

Family law is a broad practice area covering all types of domestic relationships. The goal of the family court is to equitably settle matters in the best interest of all parties whenever possible.

How Do You File for a Divorce in Orlando?

Parties who qualify may file for a Simplified Dissolution of Marriage without an attorney. However, the parties must agree on all matters related to the divorce and have no minor or dependent children born out of the relationship or marriage. In addition, neither party can seek spousal support in a simplified dissolution of marriage.

If you do not qualify for a simplified dissolution of marriage, you and your spouse may still file for an uncontested divorce. You and your spouse must agree to all terms of the divorce. You may or may not hire an attorney to file an uncontested divorce.

It is strongly recommended you hire an Orlando divorce lawyer if you and your spouse disagree on any terms of the divorce. Even if you agree, it is still wise to retain a lawyer to ensure your rights are protected.

A divorce proceeding can significantly impact your future. Therefore, you want to ensure you are treated fairly by your spouse.

What Should You Expect During Your Court Hearing?

The court schedules a hearing when you file for divorce, custody, adoption, spousal support, a name change, or other matters handled by the Florida family courts. It is crucial that you respond timely to the pleadings served on you by the other party and appear at the court hearing.

If you’re attending a preliminary or temporary hearing, the judge may not hear testimony. However, your attorney may have you sign an affidavit to submit to the court. The judge will rule based on the evidence filed with the court and the attorneys’ statements at the hearing.

At a final trial, each side presents their case in court. Both attorneys can make opening and closing statements. The parties may testify and call witnesses to testify and enter documents into the record.

The judge may rule on the case in court or may take the matter under advisement, meaning the judge intends to consider the matter and issue a ruling within a few days.

How Can a Family Law Attorney Help You?

Every family court matter is serious because the outcome has profound implications for your future. Therefore, never assume that you do not need an Orlando family law attorney to represent you in a case.

A family law attorney will:

  • Explain your legal rights and your options for dealing with a family law matter
  • Provide legal advocacy and protection from abuses by the other party
  • Provide sound and objective legal assessments when you are not thinking clearly
  • Investigate and gather evidence
  • Streamline the process because the attorney understands court procedures and policies
  • Provide compassionate support and guidance throughout your case
  • Appear with you at all court hearings and advocate for your wishes and best interests
  • Handle all paperwork for your family court case
  • Utilize alternative dispute resolution to resolve cases and save you time and money

There is no such thing as a “simple” case. Family law cases that begin with agreements can take a turn for the worse as the parties fight for property, custody, and support.

Resources for Families Going Through a Divorce

Going through a divorce action can be stressful. There are many resources that you might utilize to ease the process. Some resources for families going through divorce include:

Contact an Orlando family attorney immediately if you have questions about a family court matter or receive court documents from your partner or another party. An attorney can offer additional resources and legal advice regarding your case.

Contact Our Divorce Law Firm in Orlando, FL

Contact the experienced Orlando divorce lawyers at McMichen, Cinami & Demps today for legal assistance. Contact our Orlando, FL office at (407) 898-2161 to schedule a free consultation.

McMichen, Cinami & Demps – Orlando Office
1500 E Concord St
Orlando, FL 32803