Separating Your Physical Assets in a FL Divorce

In Florida, marital property and other physical assets fall under equitable distribution. While some states rely on community property, Florida uses equitable or fair distribution. But, just because the state offers “fair” does not necessarily mean that physical assets are split 50/50.

If you are filing for divorce in Florida, it is best to consult an attorney regarding your assets and how they will be distributed during the divorce.

Separate Property Does Not Qualify

Before property can be divided in a divorce case, couples must first determine what property is “separate” and what “marital” property is. Separate property is physical property not subject to equitable distribution. This property was acquired by a spouse before the marriage or via inheritance or under special circumstances, during the marriage. Separate property can include multiple assets, such as:

• Assets or debts that were excluded via a prenuptial agreement
• Income from rental properties acquired pre-marriage
• Inherited items (whether money or property) acquired before the marriage

Determining Marital Property

Unless there is a prenuptial agreement stating otherwise or other circumstances , physical property – including debts and assets – normally acquired during the marriage is considered “marital property.” These items can include:

• Credit card accounts
• Money
• Property
• Retirement accounts
• Profit-sharing accounts

Even if only one spouse’s name is on the property or account and it was acquired after marriage, it maybe be considered marital property.

How the Courts Divide Property

While equitable division starts with the 50/50 distribution of marital assets and liabilities. the court will seek the fairest division possible, however, that does not always mean each of your physical assets will be divided 50/50. Couples are encouraged to work together and come to a settlement independently, because if it is up to the judge, they may distribute assets based on circumstances you may not feel are relevant. Some factors the judge will consider include:

• How long you were married
• Your financial/economical circumstance
• Which spouse will have the children primarily and if it benefits them to live in the marital home
• Each spouse’s independent contribution to the marital assets – and whether or not one was a homemaker while the other was the income-earner
• Whether a spouse interrupted their own career or education to contribute elsewhere in the marriage
• Debts and liabilities owned by each spouse
• If a spouse intentionally wasted or destroyed marital assets within two years up to the divorce petition

In some cases, the judge may require couples to sell an asset and split the profits. For example, you cannot agree on the family home; therefore, the judge may require that you sell the home and then split any profits associated with that sale. If there are minor children living in the home, the best interests of the children in regard to the home will be taken into consideration.

Need Assistance with Your Property Division? Contact a Florida Divorce Attorney

Understanding how equitable distribution works is not easy – and negotiating with a spouse when emotions are high make it hard to come to a reasonable agreement. Hiring a divorce attorney that understands the property division laws in Florida is key. The attorneys at McMichen, Cinami & Demps can assist you with your divorce case. We understand emotions are high, and we are here to help you and your spouse come to a collaborative arrangement.

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