Orlando Divorce Lawyer
Helping you Through Some of Life’s Most Challenging and Important Moments
The Donna Hung Law Group practices family law and criminal defense in Orlando to guide people through some of the most difficult times they will face in their lives. If you are going through a divorce or custody dispute, if you have been accused of domestic violence or have yourself been a victim of domestic violence, or if you have been arrested and charged with a crime, our attorneys are here to protect your rights and be a strong voice on your behalf. We truly have your best interests at heart and work hard to achieve a favorable outcome for you.
Clients of the Donna Hung Law Group are kept fully informed throughout the entire course of their representation. You will know what to expect at every stage of your case, and you will be given high-quality, practical advice that will enable you to make the best decisions regarding your legal issues. Our Orlando divorce lawyers take an aggressive, solution-oriented approach to resolve your matter efficiently and effectively.
Types of Divorce in Florida
Divorce can be a challenging and emotional time for many couples, especially in a bustling city like Orlando, FL. Whether couples are facing irreconcilable differences or have decided that their marriage is no longer sustainable, understanding the process and knowing your options can make a significant difference. At Donna Hung Law Group, we are committed to providing compassionate and experienced legal guidance to help you navigate your divorce in Orlando.
In Florida, divorce is commonly referred to as the “dissolution of marriage.” There are two main types of divorce in Orlando:
- Uncontested Divorce: In this type of divorce, both parties agree on all terms, such as division of assets, child custody, and spousal support. An uncontested divorce is often faster, less stressful, and less expensive.
- Contested Divorce: A contested divorce occurs when the parties cannot agree on one or more aspects of the divorce. This can lead to litigation and court involvement, as a judge may need to make final decisions on issues like child custody, alimony, and property division.
Common Divorce Issues in Orlando
Many couples experience significant challenges during a divorce, and some of the most common issues include:
- Division of Property and Assets: Florida is an equitable distribution state, meaning marital property and debts are divided fairly, but not necessarily equally. Determining what constitutes marital property versus separate property can be complex.
- Child Custody and Support: Child custody and child support are often emotional and contentious issues. Florida courts prioritize the best interests of the child, taking into consideration factors such as the parents’ ability to provide for the child and maintain a stable environment.
- Alimony: Also known as spousal support, alimony may be awarded to one party to ensure they maintain the standard of living established during the marriage. Florida courts consider various factors when determining alimony, including the length of the marriage and each spouse’s financial situation.
- Parenting Plans: Parents are often required to submit a detailed parenting plan outlining how they will share custody and responsibilities for their children. The plan must address time-sharing, decision-making authority, and communication methods.
Florida Divorce Filing Process
The divorce process in Orlando follows the state laws of Florida. Here is an overview of the typical steps involved:
- Filing a Petition: One spouse (the petitioner) files a Petition for Dissolution of Marriage with the local circuit court. This petition outlines the grounds for divorce, which in Florida is often “irreconcilable differences.”
- Serving the Petition: The other spouse (the respondent) must be served with the divorce papers and has 20 days to file a response.
- Financial Disclosures: Both parties are required to exchange financial information, including income, assets, and debts.
- Negotiation or Mediation: In an uncontested divorce, the couple may negotiate the terms of the divorce with or without the help of attorneys. If mediation is required, a neutral third party will facilitate discussions to help the couple reach an agreement.
- Final Judgment: If the couple can agree on all aspects of the divorce, they may submit a settlement agreement for court approval. In a contested divorce, a trial may be necessary, and a judge will make the final decisions.
- Divorce Decree: Once the judge signs the final judgment, the divorce is official. Both parties must adhere to the terms of the divorce as outlined in the decree.
Comprehensive Orlando Family Law Practice
At Donna Hung Law Group, we understand the emotional and financial toll divorce can take on you and your family. Our experienced Orlando divorce attorneys are here to provide you with compassionate, knowledgeable, and strategic legal guidance throughout the entire divorce process. We handle all aspects of divorce, from uncontested divorces to complex contested cases involving child custody, alimony, and property division.
Our lawyers guide you through every aspect of your Florida divorce, making sure that your interests are properly represented in the division of marital property, the determination of timesharing and parenting plans, and the payment of child support and alimony. Our office is available to assist you in the full range of post-divorce issues that may arise as well, including modification of court orders, relocation, and contempt and enforcement proceedings.
Our family law practice also encompasses the following matters:
- Alimony
- Child Custody & Visitation
- Child Relocation
- Child Support
- Collaborative Law
- Contempt & Enforcement
- Divorce
- Domestic Violence
- Family Modifications
- Mediation
- Property Division
- Paternity
- Prenuptial & Postnuptial Agreements
- Child Relocation
- Timesharing & Parenting
Our team works diligently to protect your rights and interests while helping you navigate the legal system as smoothly as possible. Whether through negotiation, mediation, or litigation, Donna Hung Law Group is committed to helping you achieve the best possible outcome. If you’re considering divorce or have questions about your legal options, contact Donna Hung Law Group today to schedule a consultation. We’re here to support you every step of the way.
Orlando Divorce & Family Law FAQs
What is your fee?
The fee is determined by the type of case you have, issues in the case, a contested versus uncontested matter, evidence in the case, etc. The fee will be discussed at your initial consultation. The initial consultation is important to determine if the Donna Hung Law Group is a good fit for your case and vice versa.
Can I make a payment online?
Yes. You can make a convenient online payment by clicking here. We accept Visa, Master Card, and Discover.
What do I do if I am served with a divorce or paternity petition?
If served with an original petition for divorce or paternity, you should seek the advice of an attorney immediately. You only have 20 days from the date you were served to file an answer to the Court, otherwise your Spouse or the other parent may obtain a default judgment against you. Even if a default judgment is entered against you, contact the Donna Hung Law Group immediately as we may be able set the default aside.
How do I set up my confidential consultation?
Call (407) 999-0099 for the Donna Hung Law Group’s assistant to schedule or contact us here. For family law cases, we charge $150.00 for an initial thirty (30) minute (zoom or telephone only) or $300.00 for an initial (60) minute confidential consultation (zoom, telephone or in person)*. This rate is for new consultations only.
*Please note that we cannot take every single case that is presented to us. In the event you decide to retain the firm, there is a possibility the firm cannot take your case. This will be determined at or after your consultation. The initial consultation is important to determine if the Donna Hung Law Group is a good fit for your case and vice versa. The consultation fee is non-refundable.
Can I speak to an attorney on the phone before they are hired for advice?
Not in family law cases. All appointments are made through the legal assistant.
What should I be doing to prepare myself if served or is serving divorce papers?
Knowing your assets and liabilities is a start. Make sure you have copies of financial statements (savings, checking, investments, credit cards, etc.). Have copies of important documents, payroll records, insurance, etc.
Determining your monthly expenses (household, children, auto, etc.)
Evidence of any issues that are significant to your divorce (domestic violence, child related issues, criminal history, etc.)
Is a trial necessary?
The majority of cases that the Donna Hung Law Group. represents, settle without a trial. This is usually accomplished in the following ways:
Mediation: Mediation involves a neutral third party, who assists both sides to come to a resolution of the matter. The Court requires the parties to mediate before having the matter be heard. If mediation is successful, the mediator or attorney, will draft an Agreement, the parties sign and it is filed with the Court. If this settles all matters, then a Final Judgment is entered at a final hearing. If mediation is not successful, then we set the matter before the Court.
Settlement Conferences: – Should your case fail at mediation, settlement conferences between the parties and their attorneys will occur during the course of your case and if an agreement is reached, a Marital Settlement Agreement is drafted, signed by the parties, filed with the court and a final hearing is scheduled.
Negotiations in criminal cases: – Negotiations with the state attorney’s office will occur throughout your case and if a favorable resolution is reached, the case will be set for a plea or the case dropped if that is the state’s decision.
When will the other party get served? I filed all my motions with the court regarding modification of child custody and support. it has been about 5 weeks. How long does it generally take? What if they can’t find the him at a residence? (he is in-between places) Can they serve him at his place of employment? And what can I expect after he is served, or not served?
Did you provide a good address on the summons? The process server will only serve at the address provided to him or her. Yes, your ex can be served at his place of employment but he will need to be personally served and not through substitute service. You should check with the process server you used.
How much is an uncontested divorce: I left my alcoholic husband back in 2009. He now is in prison in Texas. The youngest of our children is 16.
It depends if it is truly uncontested which means you both agree on how you two will settle your divorce. If your husband agrees and will sign the marital settlement agreement and parenting plan, most attorneys charge a flat or reduced rate as the case will settle with no litigation. The problem arises when you tell your attorney that it is uncontested but it turns into a contested matter and you end up paying for a contested case as most divorce attorneys charge by the hour. Good luck.
Husband arrested for 2 counts of felony battery, want to get no contact lifted also both parties want to drop charges we live in Florida, want to drop the charges I made against my husband and my father does as well I know the state will pick it up but will my dropping the charges or not going to court help his case? What can I do to help him?
You and your father should file a declination of prosecution with the state attorney’s office so they know your position on moving forward with the case. Also, speak to your husband’s criminal defense attorney on how to properly move forward in the criminal case if it is filed by the state. The attorney can explain subpoena powers of the court and your obligations moving forward.
Dedicated and Experienced Florida Criminal Defense Lawyers
Among our attorneys you will find a former Orlando and Kissimmee criminal prosecutor with experience handling domestic violence cases along with a wide range of criminal law matters. This knowledge and experience enables us to provide strong, insightful defense to resolve your matter at the earliest possible stage or represent you all the way through trial if necessary. Our lawyers keep you fully informed with every aspect and every stage of your case, so that you are involved and understand what to expect as your case progresses.
Our Florida criminal defense practice covers many different types of criminal charges and legal proceedings, including:
- Assault, Battery & Stalking
- Drug Offenses
- Theft Offenses
- DUI/DWI & Traffic
- Bond Hearings
- Early Termination of Probation
- Record Sealing & Expungement
- Juvenile Offenses & School Hearings
- Violations of Probation & Community Control
Serving Throughout Orlando
Orlando offers a wide variety of neighborhoods, each with its own unique charm. Below is a simple list of 20 of the most popular neighborhoods in the city:
- Lake Nona
- Baldwin Park
- College Park
- Winter Park
- Thornton Park
- Dr. Phillips
- MetroWest
- Hunters Creek
- Avalon Park
- Windermere
- Celebration
- Waterford Lakes
- Mills 50 District
- Audubon Park
- Conway
- South Eola
- Bay Hill
- Lake Como
- Lake Mary
- Vista Lakes
Orlando Family & Divorce Lawyers Here For You When You Need Us
At the Donna Hung Law Group, our Orlando divorce attorneys try to make your access to legal services as convenient as possible. We offer secure, convenient online payments through LawPay and accept Visa, Master Card and Discover. Services for Spanish speakers are available as well. For help with a family law or criminal law matter in Orlando, call the Donna Hung Law Group at 407-999-0099 to schedule an appointment today.
