Family Law
Prepare to thrive.Palm Beach Family Law Attorney
30+ Years of Experience Serving Clients Throughout Florida
We explain your options and their consequences. You inform the strategy we develop on your behalf. Together, we develop a definable and achievable blueprint for the optimal outcome. We then execute, strategically.
Over many years, our firm has handled a myriad of complex divorce, alimony, child custody and support matters, as well as other family law matters. We have gained a formidable mastery of both the process and nuance of negotiating a successful resolution and litigating a case before a judge.
Open to every genuine offer of collaboration, we remain able and willing to maneuver and strike as strategy and situations dictate.
Ready to get started? Call our family lawyer in Palm Beach Gardens today at (561) 589-3120 or contact us online.
Divorce and Legal Separation in Palm Beach
Divorce is one of the most common family law matters in Florida, and it can be an incredibly difficult process for everyone involved. As a no-fault divorce state, Florida does not require the filing party to prove any wrongdoing to obtain a divorce. Instead, one or both parties need to prove that the marriage is "irretrievably broken." While this simplifies the legal grounds for divorce, the process itself can still be complex, especially when dividing assets, determining alimony, or deciding on child custody and visitation.
A Palm Beach family law attorney will guide you through the process of filing for divorce, addressing any concerns about the division of property, spousal support, and child-related matters. Florida is an equitable distribution state, meaning that marital assets are divided fairly, but not necessarily equally. Our lawyer will ensure that you receive a fair portion of the marital estate, whether through negotiation or litigation.
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Decades of Dedicated Service
With over 30 years in family law, we bring seasoned insight to every case, focusing on high-conflict and high-net-worth matters.
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Custom Strategies for Every Case
Our boutique approach means every client receives direct, attentive care from our skilled team, ensuring your needs are front and center.
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A Deep Bench of Resources
We work closely with credentialed experts in fields like psychology, mediation, and forensic accounting, providing a robust foundation for complex cases.
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Compassionate Advocacy & Care
We understand the emotional toll of family law matters and provide compassionate support while fiercely advocating for your rights and best interests.
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I am so much better off because of your strength and power.- Former Client
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The definition of a true professional and compassionate attorney. Her outstanding team treated me as a top priority.- Former Client
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They were caring, considerate and compassionate in the midst of an emotionally trying situation. Her solid moral compass is not easy to come by.- Former Client
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We were in the best of hands—not only in terms of legal expertise, but also in terms of honesty and integrity.- Former Client
Helping with Child Custody and Parenting Plans in Florida
In Florida, child custody is referred to as "timesharing," and the courts always prioritize the best interests of the child when making decisions about custody arrangements. There are two main components of timesharing:
- Physical custody, which refers to where the child will live.
- Legal custody, which pertains to the right to make decisions about the child's welfare, such as education, healthcare, and religious upbringing.
Florida encourages shared parental responsibility, meaning both parents should have a role in making important decisions for their child, unless it is proven that one parent is unfit. However, one parent may be granted primary physical custody, meaning the child will live with them the majority of the time, while the other parent may have visitation rights. The amount of time each parent spends with the child is outlined in a parenting plan, which is a detailed schedule that includes timesharing arrangements, holidays, vacations, and decision-making responsibilities.
If there is a dispute about custody, the court will consider several factors to determine what is in the best interests of the child. These factors include the child's age, the relationship with each parent, the child’s needs, the ability of each parent to provide for the child’s emotional and physical well-being, and any history of domestic violence or substance abuse. In some cases, the child’s preferences may also be considered, depending on their age and maturity level.
Seeking Child Support in Florida
Child support is another crucial component of family law cases. In Florida, both parents are responsible for supporting their children, and child support is determined based on a formula that takes into account the income of both parents, the needs of the child, and the amount of time each parent spends with the child.
A Palm Beach family law attorney can help you understand how child support is calculated and ensure that the amount ordered is fair. If you believe that the child support amount is too high or too low, your attorney can request a modification based on changes in your financial situation or the needs of the child. Child support orders can be enforced by the court, and if a parent fails to comply, there are legal remedies available to ensure that the support is paid.
Fighting for a Fair Property Division Settlement in Florida
Florida is an equitable distribution state, which means that property acquired during the marriage is divided fairly, but not necessarily equally. In a divorce, marital property is classified into two categories: marital property and non-marital property. Marital property includes all assets and debts acquired during the marriage, while non-marital property refers to assets owned by one spouse prior to the marriage, as well as any property received as a gift or inheritance.
The division of marital property is based on the principle of fairness, and not necessarily a 50/50 split. Several factors are considered when determining the equitable distribution of property, including:
- the duration of the marriage,
- the economic circumstances of each spouse,
- each spouse's contribution to the marriage (both financial and non-financial),
- the desirability of maintaining certain assets, such as the family home, for the welfare of any children.
In some cases, spouses may be able to reach a mutually agreeable settlement regarding property division through negotiation or mediation. However, if the parties cannot agree, the court will make the final decision.
Take the First Step Towards Resolution - Contact C. Debra Welch Law Firm Today
Whether you’re facing a divorce, custody issue, or another family law matter, our experienced team is here to provide the support and guidance you need. Contact us today for a consultation, and let’s work together toward the best possible outcome for you and your family.
We are dedicated to providing compassionate, high-quality family law services centered on integrity, expertise, and personalized attention. Our firm values trust, transparency, and a collaborative approach, ensuring each client feels supported and empowered through every step of their case. With a commitment to excellence, we leverage our experience and deep network of professionals to work towards the best possible outcomes for those we serve.
When we face your family law case together, you won't just survive; you'll thrive. Call (561) 589-3120 or contact us online to get started with your initial consultation.