Florida is what is known as an "Equitable Distribution" state. Equitable Distribution refers to the statutory scheme designed for distribution of property at the time of divorce. Property is made of the assets owned by the spouses at the time of divorce, including any real estate, personal belongings, even the family pets.

Equitable does not mean equal, but an equal distribution is generally the starting point. There are many factors the court will consider in determining the property each spouse gets, including the length of the marriage, whether there are children, the contributions of each spouse to the marriage, and how the property was acquired and used. Marital property is divided between the spouses at the time of divorce. Generally, property acquired during the marriage would be considered marital property, although, there are exceptions. Property that is considered non-marital property is not subject to distribution. That includes property that was acquired by a spouse before the marriage, or received as inheritance during marriage. Non-marital assets, however, can become marital assets under certain circumstances, such as when they are co-mingled with marital property or treated as marital property by the spouses.

For more information about property division and how Florida law applies to your situation, contact our office to speak with an attorney today at (561) 472-0919.