Divorce Lawyer Lakeland, FL
Deciding to end a marriage is a difficult choice. Whether you seek a more peaceful resolution through mediation or need to proceed with litigation for a high asset divorce, we can help.
Attorney Debra J. Sutton has handled family law cases for three decades. Contact her law firm today if you need a divorce lawyer in Lakeland, FL.
What Sets Our Lawyer Apart Why Choose the Sutton Law Firm for Your Divorce Case
When facing a crumbling relationship, it can be difficult to know where to turn to for assistance. Family law is unique because it involves someone who has been close to you, someone you have depended on throughout the years. Your selection of an attorney will influence your future, and the team at Sutton Law Firm understands the gravity of the situation before you. More than just another lawyer, when you choose our divorce attorney to represent you, you are hiring a family law specialist with qualifications that include:
Over 30 Years in Practice
Our founding partner and divorce lawyer, Debra J. Sutton, has assisted clients throughout Polk County with their legal needs since 1989. During the last three decades, the Sutton Law Firm has earned a reputation amongst other divorce attorneys in Lakeland for our tactful skill and professional approach to all types of family law matters.
Compassionate Counsel
Each member of our caring team of family law specialists understands the difficult decisions that need to be made when seeking the help of a divorce attorney. During these troubling times, our attorneys will answer any questions you have along the way and provide you with the individualized attention and support you need to move forward towards this next chapter.
Board-Certified
Divorce lawyer Debra J. Sutton has been board-certified in marital and family law by the Florida Bar since 2001. She can assist all types of families with divorce, such as cases involving spousal support, child support, child custody, and high assets. To best suit your needs, our law firm offers traditional divorce services as well as collaborative divorces and divorce mediation.
Work With a Board-Certified Divorce Lawyer Lakeland Can Count on the Sutton Law Firm
Attorney Debra J. Sutton has helped many people with the divorce process. As a board-certified marital and family law attorney, she's a rarity among her peers. Less than 1% of Florida divorce attorneys are certified by the Florida Bar. This distinction in family law means she has the rigor and the focus to provide exceptional legal guidance.
Are You Ready to Begin a New Chapter? Schedule a Consultation with a Divorce Lawyer Today
The attorneys at Sutton Law Firm know the anxiety that a deteriorating relationship can have on a family. We strive to provide clients in Lakeland, FL with effective and timely legal services tailored to their individual situations. To learn more about how our attorneys can help you take the first steps towards a new life, fill out the form below and we will be in touch:
We Will Guide Your Through Your Divorce Lakeland Can Count on Us
Steve Steiner
Lakeland, FL
2024
I have known Debra and Matt on both a professional and personal basis for a number of years, and have recommended Sutton Law Firm to others, based on their expertise and guidance on legal matters I have encountered, knowing they can --- and have --- done so for a multitude of clients. While other law firms may boast they are on the side of their clients, and I am sure those are, Debra and Matt and their incredible support staff "walk the walk "
View on Googleserhiy barsukov
St Petersburg, FL
2024
Sutton Law Firm has personally helped me and my family in many situations. The team works together to create the best case for their clients. I will only use Sutton Law Firm in the future, they are the absolute best!
View on GoogleOur Lakeland Divorce Attorneys Can Help You We Can Handle Different Aspects of a Divorce
Attorneys Debra J. Sutton and Matthew J. Kovschak have helped many families in the Lakeland, FL, area successfully navigate through the divorce process. Our award-winning family law attorneys are ready to help you navigate through a difficult time in your life. Sutton Law Firm can help you with:
Division of Property
Deciding how to divide property like land, a home, vehicles, and other assets can create a roadblock in the divorce proceedings. Our Lakeland attorneys can ensure your assets and debts are divided in a manner that has your best interest in mind. If you have a family-owned business involved in the divorce proceedings, Mr. Kovschak's background in business law can help create a favorable outcome.
Custody and Child Support
Disputes over time sharing and child support payments can add a great deal of stress to the divorce process. As an attorney who works in many aspects of family law, Ms. Sutton understands the numerous factors courts look for when it comes to granting custody and determining child support payments. We will advocate for an outcome that serves the best interests of you and your children.
Alimony Payments
Alimony payments allow a spouse to cover gaps in their income when a marriage ends. The goal of spousal support payments is to ensure a person has the ability to be self-sufficient. Whether you're entitled to alimony or have to pay spousal support, our team can help you. We can assist with modifications based on changing circumstances and also enforce penalties for late payments.
Planning Your Future
The decisions made during your divorce can determine your quality of life for years to come. It's helpful to have people on your side who can outline potential setbacks and challenges you may not have anticipated. Having the family law attorneys at the Sutton Law Firm on your side from the beginning will greatly increase your chances of a successful future after your divorce is finalized.
We Stand With Survivors of Domestic Violence We Will Protect and Advocate for You During Divorce Proceedings
Ending a marriage can be extraordinarily difficult if your partner is violent. If you've endured physical or emotional abuse from your spouse, the Sutton Law Firm can offer much needed legal, moral, and emotional support. As victims' rights advocates, we will give you the space you need to tell us your story and the strength you need to take back control of your life.
Individualized Attention At Our Comforting Offices
Divorce proceedings can be time-consuming and emotionally draining. All of our clients are treated with the utmost sensitivity and discretion. Your separation will be handled privately, and we carefully manage our schedules to preserve confidentiality. Appointments are always staggered at our family law offices in Lakeland, St. Petersburg, and Bartow, FL, so two clients are rarely in the office at the same time and we can give you individualized attention.
Ms. Sutton's firm handles amicable to hostile divorces, and everything that falls in between. She offers collaborative and mediated divorce services that can streamline important agreements like child custody, child support, alimony, and other important decisions.
If you are involved in a divorce, you deserve attorneys who will work for your best interests. Request a consultation to meet at our law offices or call:
(863) 533-8912
A Client Shares Her Experience Kindness and Competence Throughout the Legal Process
"I was being represented by a former attorney in my divorce proceeding. I did not feel the attorney was representing me on my behalf. I immediately hired attorney Sutton. Not only was she knowledgeable in divorce, but she and her staff were compassionate and knowledgeable. There was definitely a sigh of relief when I realized that I finally hired an attorney who was there to represent my interests. I will always be grateful." Barbara Stone
High-Asset Divorce
A high-asset divorce involves spouses who have accumulated substantial net worth. It can also include cases where an individual has substantial non-marital income and assets. This may be in the form of high income, substantial assets, substantial home and business equity, multiple properties, overseas assets, large insurance and retirement accounts, a trust, or valuable artwork.
As a result, there are often prenuptial agreements or payout provisions on certain types of accounts that require special attention. Some of the provisions of prenuptial agreements may have been modified or compromised during the marriage by conduct of one of the spouses. In addition, high net worth individuals face challenges not experienced by others; the rules, entities involved, and tax consequences are just a few. Our divorce lawyers can help you maximize your financial settlement.
Is Your Business at Stake in a High-Asset Divorce? Our Lawyers Can Help You Plan Ahead and Protect Your Business
Your business is fair game in a divorce. Attorney Matthew J. Kovschak is well-versed in business law. Collaborating with Debra J. Sutton, Mr. Kovschak, and our legal team can help you make smart choices about your key assets. This ability to address high-asset property division disputes sets us apart from other divorce lawyers in Lakeland, FL.
Save Your Assets from an Unfair Split Contact Divorce Lawyers Who Know What's at Stake
If you have substantial investments in stocks, bonds, real estate, or businesses, you need a family lawyer who understands the minutiae of business law as well as divorce proceedings. That's why the team of Debra J. Sutton and Matthew J. Kovschak is essential for anyone going through a high-asset divorce in Florida.
Together we can help you look after your nest egg and remain financially independent when your divorce is finalized. To set up a consultation, contact the Sutton Law Firm today.
(863) 533-8912
Get the Help You Need in a High-Asset Divorce Florida Trusts the Lawyers at the Sutton Law Firm
Melanie Carson
St Petersburg, FL
2024
Ms. Sutton and her partners go above and beyond to take care of their clients and their difficult cases. She has been in the area for many years and has been a part of many high profile cases. I highly recommend Sutton Law Firm!
View on GoogleAmber Levidiotis
Bartow, FL
2024
Excellent in both professionalism and experience Andrea was truly amazing she made us feel so at ease her customer service was excellent. Thank you Sutton Law firm for handling our case!
View on GoogleCollaborative Divorce An Alternative to Proceedings in Family Court
Collaborative divorce offers a more conciliatory approach to legal separation and the resolution of marriage. Most people have a hard time imagining divorcing parties agreeing on anything. However, this approach to divorce or any family law matter is intended to remove the complexity and hostility that often surrounds the process.
In this setting, both parties agree to work out their differences, including issues of child custody and child support, outside of the courtroom. Parties are assisted by their attorneys and other professionals.
The focus is on the good of the family as a whole, rather than on the individual. This approach allows us to consider the needs of everyone, particularly children, and develop solutions that are agreeable to all parties involved.
The Collaborative Divorce Process
During this process, each spouse retains a lawyer to represent them in the case. Our divorce attorneys in Lakeland will then work out the details of the divorce in a fair and amicable manner. We will address the following issues:
Contact Our Law Firm Meet with a Lawyer for Legal Guidance
Having a qualified attorney by your side can ease the tension and lift the anxiety you feel about ending a marriage or litigating matters related to children. Debra Sutton has been board certified in Marital and Family Law since 2001 and board certified in Appellate Practice since 1997, handling family law matters before trial and appellate courts for 30 years. In fact, she is one of less than 6% of Florida attorneys who have achieved certification and less than 1% of attorneys who have earned board certification in family law.
We have three office locations around central Florida: in Bartow, St. Petersburg, and Lakeland. To schedule an appointment with a divorce lawyer, contact us online or call us at:
Always Dedicated to the People of Florida A Family Law Client Shares Her Years-Long Experience
“Debra Sutton has been my attorney in family law matters for five years. She has been most professional and effective in every action... Her staff is also exceptional in their dedication to service. Ms. Sutton has been a blessing, going above and beyond, in her willingness to work with me on my bill. She genuinely cares about her clients, keeping their best interest at heart. I highly recommend her to serve your family law needs.” Bridget
Divorce Mediation
Divorce mediation is recommended in some cases as a more amicable option than traditional divorce. It offers an alternative to contentious and expensive litigation, which can result in an antagonistic and hostile relationship between parties.
During mediation, a neutral third party serves as the mediator between the separating spouses, providing guidance and helping to facilitate discussion to arrive on a settlement of contested issues. This may include division of assets and debts, child support, parenting plans, and what type of time sharing schedule works best for the child.
The Mediation Process
Discuss Your Needs with a Lawyer
In preparing clients for mediation, we want to learn more about your situation and understand who you are and what you want for your family. We work with you to clarify the most pressing issues and identify the ideal outcome.
Negotiating the Best Outcome
From there, Ms. Sutton can guide negotiations during mediations to achieve the outcome that best meets your needs and concerns. Your lawyer should make sure that you understand the legal implications of any agreement you may reach.
Divorce Settlement
Any settlement in mediation is reduced to a written agreement and signed by both parties. Both parties are then expected to abide by the terms of the settlement, including property and asset division, child custody, child support, and alimony.
What If We Don't Reach a Settlement?
If a settlement is not reached, you will have the satisfaction of knowing that you explored all options. Even if mediation is not successful at the time of the mediation conference, Ms. Sutton has been successful in settling disputes afterward and prior to trial. If not, we will be ready and prepared to go to trial to have a judge decide the final terms. Our lawyers in Lakeland will help build a strong case.
Your Divorce Does Not Have to Be a Battle Contact a Lawyer for Help With Your Case
At the Sutton Law Firm in Lakeland, our lawyers and staff are sensitive to the legal requirements of each case, as well as the psychological impact it can have on former spouses and children. We also understand that these legal proceedings are uncharted waters for most people. Our divorce attorneys pride ourselves on our ability to promptly respond to clients' needs in an effective and timely manner, with information specific to their situation. We serve clients across central Florida. For help with your case, contact our divorce lawyers online or call us at:
(863) 533-8912
You Can Rely on Our Divorce Lawyers Serving Lakeland, FL
Debbie Mandish
Bartow, FL
2024
Got a subpoena in the mail the Friday before Christmas to go to court. Needless to say I panicked so I found the Sutton Law form online called them during the holidays. They emailed me back during the holidays to reassure me that they could help me and that they would take care of things. Who does that ?Sutton Law firm does. Because of them I was able to have a decent Christmas . Deborah Sutton is absolutely the best. She is so knowledgeable when she tell you something you can believe in it. Also dealt with Taylor that is a PA at the law firm. What a wonderful person the whole crew there at Sutton Law firm will stand behind you. I cannot thank them enough.
View on GoogleBryan Serdynski
Bartow, FL
2023
For 2 years I hit walls in my divorce and child custody untill 6 months ago when I found Debra Sutton. I can't began to tell you how much she has changed everything for me. I was on the verge of losing everything when I walked into her office and now she has not only gotten me back my children but more then then I expected. Not just Ms. Sutton, her entire team is amazing. She has staffed the entire office with amazing powerful women who while they never miss anything and they are not afraid of anyone, somehow they manage to do it with respect and pride. Ms. Sutton and her entire staff put my children before anything and I have never met an attorney do that, it's as if my children are one of their family members. Thank you so much to everyone at Sutton Law Firm for everything you did for me and my kids.
View on GoogleDivorce FAQ
What's the difference between a divorce and an annulment?
A divorce marks the end of a legal marriage. An annulment erases a legal marriage, declaring the initial union completely null and void. Typically people seek an annulment if they were coerced or tricked into getting married. We can discuss the annulment process as part of a legal consultation.
Can I file for divorce in Florida if I got married out of state?
Yes, as long as you or your spouse meets Florida's residency requirements, you can file for a divorce within the state. That means one of you must live in Florida for at least six months before filing for divorce.
Do I need a reason to file for divorce in Florida?
No. Florida is a no-fault divorce state. This means that a married couple can file for a divorce simply because they cannot agree on matters and do not want to remain married. This is also known as irreconcilable differences.
What's the difference between a contested divorce and an uncontested divorce?
In simple terms, an uncontested divorce (uncontested dissolution of marriage) is when both spouses agree on all terms of a divorce. A contested divorce is when spouses cannot agree on the terms of a divorce. An uncontested divorce can also occur when a spouse fails to respond to divorce papers, which can lead to a default divorce judgement.
Have More Questions About Divorce Proceedings? Contact Our Family Law Attorneys for Answers
Divorces cases are complicated, even when there's a collaborative or cooperative atmosphere between former spouses. You likely have additional questions that are not answered here. To get additional information about divorce and family law, contact our law offices in Lakeland, Bartow, and St. Petersburg, FL. We can provide the insight you need during a consultation.
(863) 533-8912
We Will Put Your and Your Needs First A Florida Divorce Attorney in a League of Her Own
“There are law firms and then there is Sutton Law Firm. It's like they are not even playing in the same league. Ms. Sutton is a force to be reckoned with for sure, but she also has an amazing team behind her. Barbie, Kerry, Sherri, and Taylor are just as professional as Ms. Sutton. This entire office went above and beyond for us. The amount of ethics that this office holds and the respect they demand—it's amazing.” Crystal
