Divorce has the potential to be either complex or simple, depending on the circumstances and the willingness of the involved parties to compromise. With all of the regulations and the information out there, it may be difficult to discern between the true facts and the falsehoods.
As a result, there are a number of myths about divorce in Florida.
1. Teenage children may pick the parent they live with
One common misconception is that children may choose where to live once they reach a certain age, usually 13, though some people think kids may pick at 12 or 14. In reality, they have no such decision-making ability until they reach age 18. The judge may choose to take the preference of older children into account, but they have no legal obligation to do so. The parents may also address it in a settlement.
2. Courts automatically favor mothers
Florida does not show bias based on gender when determining time sharing. Judges base it on the best interests of the child, which in turn has a basis in many considerations. They set child support by following specific guidelines.
3. If one spouse wrongs the other, the latter has the upper hand
Many individuals have the idea that if their partner committed adultery or otherwise wronged them, the law is in their favor and will grant them the majority of the assets. In general, unfaithfulness has little effect on property distribution, except in special cases. One circumstance in which it may have an impact is if the offending individual committed “marital waste,” by blowing shared marital funds on the affair.
In a divorce, it is important to keep the facts straight and try for a peaceful resolution. Doing so may make the process considerably easier for everyone.