Fort Lauderdale Family Attorney
When you are facing divorce or dealing with other family law concerns, you likely have many things on your mind, from protecting your legal rights to managing emotional stress. The Fort Lauderdale family attorneys of Sandra Bonfiglio, P.A. do more than just take you through the legal steps to end your marriage—you will find a counselor and a steady hand to guide you and support you through this difficult time.
- Divorce
- Child Custody
- Child Support
- Paternity
- Prenuptial & Postnuptial Agreements
- Stepparent Adoption
Learn more about our services below, our Fort Lauderdale family law attorneys can help you today.
- Divorce – We handle all types of divorce cases, including uncontested, contested and military divorce proceedings handled through mediation and litigation. Our website also provides information on grounds for divorce, the divorce process in Florida, filing a petition for dissolution of marriage, and new divorce laws.
- Property division – Divorcing spouses must divide their assets and debts during the dissolution of marriage process. Sandra Bonfiglio, P.A. helps clients establish fair arrangements for property division.
- Alimony – If either spouse still needs financial support once property division is complete, a Florida court may consider awarding alimony during or after the divorce.
- Child custody – We represent mothers and fathers in all types of child custody matters, including cases involving temporary custody, shared parental responsibility, full custody and child visitation rights.
- Child support – There are new child support laws in Florida that may affect how child support is determined during or after your divorce. At Sandra Bonfiglio, P.A., we also assist clients with child support enforcement and modifications.
- Grandparents’ rights – Unlike many states, Florida courts will consider requests for visitation from grandparents. We can help you assert or contest grandparents’ rights in a child custody case.
- Guardianships – Sometimes a guardian may be appointed in a divorce or custody proceeding. We have experience representing clients in guardianship litigation.
- Prenuptial and postnuptial agreements – Our firm helps clients create prenuptial and postnuptial agreements that protect assets in the event of a divorce.
- Legal separation – While legal separation does not formally exist in Florida, there are ways to achieve a similar result with legal agreements and petitions for court orders.
- Paternity – Establishing paternity gives a father certain rights and responsibilities in regard to his child, and also enables a child to receive benefits or inheritance from his or her father. We can help clients assert or challenge paternity depending on their needs.
- Relocation – Shared custody can be significantly affected if one parent relocates, especially if he or she moves to another state. We help mothers and fathers determine how parental responsibility and time sharing may be affected in the event of relocation.
- Stepparent adoptions – At Sandra Bonfiglio, P.A. we provide representation and guidance in stepparent adoption cases to solidify the parent-child relationship through formal legal channels.
Our law firm takes on many roles for our clients during the divorce process, but the most important one is to represent their best interests. While other attorneys look at the obvious issues and decide what they think is best or easiest, we will work with you to find solutions that fit you and your family.
The scope of family law
From divorce to child custody, the path can feel overwhelming. Whether you have lived in Broward County for years or are new to the area, understanding Fort Lauderdale’s family law framework can help reduce stress. Sandra Bonfiglio, P.A. can provide support during life’s most critical moments.
Family law in Florida covers an expansive range of legal matters that affect household relationships. While divorce, child custody, and child support are some of the most common issues, family law also encompasses topics such as prenuptial agreements, paternity, domestic violence injunctions, and modifications of existing court orders. Each matter carries unique emotional and financial implications, making legal counsel especially valuable. Proper understanding of these topics may prevent common pitfalls and costly mistakes.
Divorce: a life-changing decision
Divorce is often the first topic people associate with family law. In Florida, a divorce is legally referred to as a “dissolution of marriage.” Because the state follows a “no-fault” system, neither spouse must prove wrongdoing by the other. Instead, one partner needs to demonstrate that the marriage is irretrievably broken. Depending on whether spouses can agree on matters such as property distribution, alimony, and child-related issues, a divorce can be uncontested or contested.
• Uncontested divorce: This process is usually quicker and smoother. If you and your spouse can settle on the division of marital assets, child custody, and support without prolonged negotiation or litigation, you can finalize the divorce more swiftly.
• Contested divorce: For couples unable to see eye-to-eye on key issues, a contested divorce is the likely outcome. This involves negotiations, possible mediation, and, if disagreements persist, a courtroom trial.
Child custody and support: focus on the best interests
When children are involved, custody and support become critical points requiring careful consideration. Florida law uses the term “time-sharing” to describe child custody arrangements. The ultimate goal is always to protect the best interests of the child, taking into account factors like each parent’s ability to provide a stable environment, the child’s school and community ties, and any special needs.
Child support is typically determined using Florida’s established state guidelines that factor in each parent’s income, healthcare expenses, and the child’s educational requirements. Courts expect both parents to share the financial responsibilities of raising a child. Failing to meet child support obligations can lead to wage garnishments or additional legal actions to ensure compliance.
Modification of orders
Post-judgment modifications are sometimes necessary when a family’s circumstances significantly change. Common reasons to seek modification include shifts in income, relocation, or notable changes in a child’s needs. Because family dynamics evolve over time, these updates to existing court orders help ensure fairness and appropriateness, reflecting current realities rather than outdated arrangements.
Navigating the local courthouse
In Fort Lauderdale, family law cases generally proceed through the Broward County Judicial Complex, located at 201 SE 6th Street. This large facility manages courtrooms for a variety of case types, including those specific to family law. Filing for divorce, requesting child support adjustments, or submitting other family-related petitions typically begins with the appropriate paperwork and filing fees.
Court staff members can answer basic procedural questions, but they are not permitted to provide legal advice. That is why partnering with a knowledgeable attorney is highly recommended. An attorney will help you complete and file the necessary documents accurately, meet court deadlines, and advocate on your behalf if your case moves to litigation. While the courthouse might initially feel intimidating, entering the process with a prepared plan and experienced legal guidance can significantly ease the journey.
How Sandra Bonfiglio, P.A. can help
Seeking sound legal counsel can be one of the most crucial decisions you make in any family law matter. The firm of Sandra Bonfiglio, P.A. specializes in these areas, offering services that address divorce, child custody, support negotiations, paternity disputes, and more. By combining a thorough understanding of Florida’s family laws with genuine empathy for the emotional weight these cases carry, the firm strives to protect both your rights and your long-term well-being.
• Personalized approach: No two families are exactly alike. Sandra Bonfiglio, P.A. tailors legal strategies to your specific needs, whether you are dealing with a straightforward uncontested divorce or a high-conflict matter involving time-sharing.
• Clear communication: From your initial consultation to the resolution of your case, the firm prioritizes clarity, breaking down complex legal jargon and keeping you informed at every step.
• Negotiation and mediation support: Many family law disputes can be resolved without a full trial. Through negotiation and mediation, Sandra Bonfiglio, P.A. seeks amicable outcomes designed to minimize emotional strain.
• Litigation experience: If litigation becomes unavoidable, you can rely on an experienced advocate ready to represent your interests in court.
Serving Throughout Fort Lauderdale
- Las Olas
- Victoria Park
- Coral Ridge
- Harbor Beach
- Rio Vista
- Colee Hammock
- Imperial Point
- Tarpon River
- Central Beach
- Sailboat Bend
Finding the right path for your family
Family law extends beyond legal procedures; it impacts your financial outlook, living arrangements, and, above all, your relationship with the people you care about most. By familiarizing yourself with the processes surrounding divorce, child custody, and support, you can approach the Broward County court system with greater confidence. Although every family’s circumstances are different, having reliable counsel greatly increases your chance of reaching a stable outcome that respects your rights and the best interests of your children.
When legal challenges arise, choosing an attorney who aligns with your values is key. With Sandra Bonfiglio, P.A. by your side, you have an experienced professional dedicated to providing compassionate, detail-oriented representation. If you are facing a family law issue in Fort Lauderdale, consider consulting an attorney who understands the local landscape and is committed to guiding you through each phase of the process. Your family’s future is paramount, and securing the right assistance now can lay the foundation for a more positive tomorrow.
Contact A Compassionate Fort Lauderdale Family Attorney Serving Broward County
If you live in Ft. Lauderdale or Boca Raton, and you have a family law concern, please contact Sandra Bonfiglio, P.A. to schedule a consultation. The first 15 minutes of your one-on-one meeting are free, our experienced Fort Lauderdale family law attorney can help.