Gathering Evidence In Contested Fort Lauderdale Divorce Cases
In some Fort Lauderdale divorces, both spouses agree to end the marriage and work out property division and other divorce-related matters amicably. Other cases are more complex and involve bitter disputes between the parties.
Evidence plays a major role in contested cases and can help you get what you are entitled to in a settlement. Our experienced Fort Lauderdale divorce attorney explains what types of evidence matter most and how to build a strong record from the very beginning.
Types of Evidence That Matter in a Broward County Divorce
In any divorce case, Florida law requires couples to resolve legal issues such as property division, alimony, and child custody. Unfortunately, fierce disputes over how to handle these matters are a common problem in contested divorce cases. This is where evidence plays a key role in protecting your rights.
Under Florida Statutes Chapter 90, the rules of evidence govern what a Broward County family court judge can consider, which means not everything you collect will be admissible. Common types of evidence valuable in a contested Fort Lauderdale divorce include:
- Financial records such as bank statements, tax returns, pay stubs, credit card statements, and investment account records.
- Texts and emails between you and your spouse documenting agreements, threats, admissions about finances, and missed obligations.
- Posts made on social media, either publicly or shared with you, can reveal undisclosed assets or behavior relevant to child custody or alimony.
- Photographs and videos can document living conditions, property, parenting behavior, or incidents relevant to your case, but must be legally obtained.
- Witness testimony from people with direct, firsthand knowledge of relevant facts, such as a teacher, counselor, neighbor, or family member.
Organized, well-documented evidence is one of your most important assets when filing for a contested divorce in Fort Lauderdale.
How the Discovery Process Works in a Contested Fort Lauderdale Divorce
Beyond what you gather on your own, Florida’s discovery process helps you obtain information your spouse may not volunteer. Discovery is especially useful when you suspect hidden assets, undisclosed income, or financial misconduct.
Under Florida Family Law Rules of Procedure, both parties must exchange certain financial documents, but you can obtain additional evidence through formal discovery requests, including:
- Production of documents requests to obtain financial records, property documents, and other materials that your spouse controls.
- Interrogatories are written questions that your spouse must answer under oath.
- Depositions of your spouse or third-party witnesses to lock in sworn testimony before trial.
- Forensic accounting if you think your spouse is hiding assets or underreporting income.
Start the evidence-gathering process early to protect your rights in a contested Broward County divorce.
Contact Our Experienced Fort Lauderdale Divorce Attorney Today
Evidence plays a crucial role in getting what you are entitled to in a contested Fort Lauderdale divorce. At The Law Office of Sandra Bonfiglio, P.A., we provide trusted, professional representation to clients throughout Broward County, helping them build strong cases and navigate the discovery process.
To request a confidential consultation, call or contact our experienced Fort Lauderdale divorce attorney online today.
Source:
flsenate.gov/Laws/Statutes/2025/Chapter90
