Practice AreasFamily Law

Family Law Attorney in Bradenton
Family law is a legal practice that impacts individuals during some of life’s most pivotal transitions. Whether navigating divorce, child custody disputes, or parental rights, understanding family law empowers individuals to make informed decisions that protect their best interests. At McNary Powers, our family law services are led by Libby McNary, who is dedicated to providing compassionate and strategic legal support. We proudly serve clients in Bradenton, Lakewood Ranch, and Sarasota, guiding them through these complex matters with trusted advocacy. This guide offers a comprehensive overview of family law, addressing key concerns and providing clarity on essential legal processes.
What Is Family Law?
Family law encompasses a broad range of legal issues, including everything from marriage and divorce to child custody and support. Family law cases often involve high emotional stakes, requiring careful legal navigation to ensure fair and just outcomes for all parties involved.
Key Areas of Family Law
At McNary Powers, we focus on several key areas of family law, including:
- Alimony – Determining spousal support obligations
- Child Custody – Determining parenting plans and custody arrangements
- Child Relocation – Navigating relocation laws for parents
- Child Support – Ensuring fair financial support for children
- Collaborative Divorce – Seeking amicable solutions through collaboration
- DCF & Dependency Cases – Protecting parental rights in dependency matters
- Divorce – Guiding individuals through contested and uncontested divorces
- Equitable Distribution – Dividing marital property fairly
- Modifications – Adjusting existing court orders as needed
- Paternity – Establishing legal fatherhood and associated rights
- Uncontested Divorce – Simplifying the divorce process with mutual agreement
Divorce: A Closer Look
Types of Divorce
- Contested Divorce – When spouses cannot agree on key issues like child custody, asset division, or alimony.
- Uncontested Divorce – When both parties agree on all matters, leading to a smoother legal process.
- Collaborative Divorce – A method where both parties work with legal professionals to resolve outside of court.
Key Considerations in Divorce
- Residency Requirements: Florida law requires at least one spouse to have resided in the state for six months before filing.
- Equitable Distribution: Assets and debts acquired during the marriage are divided equitably, but in some limited circumstances, not equally.
- Alimony Guidelines: Courts consider factors like the length of the marriage, financial need, and earning capacity.
Child Custody & Support
Child Custody in Florida
Custody decisions in Florida prioritize the best interests of the child. Courts consider:
- Each parent’s ability to provide a stable home
- Parental cooperation in co-parenting
Child Support Guidelines
Child support calculations in Florida consider:
- Each parent’s income
- Healthcare and childcare costs
- Percentage of overnights
Establishing Paternity
Paternity cases involve legally establishing a child’s father, impacting:
- Child support obligations
- Parental rights, including custody and visitation
- The child’s right to inherit or receive benefits
Modifications of Court Orders
Life circumstances change, and court orders sometimes require adjustments. Common reasons for modifications include:
- Significant income changes
- Relocation of a parent
- Changes in a child’s needs
Domestic Violence & Injunctions
Victims of domestic violence may seek protective injunctions (restraining orders). Florida law provides several types:
- Domestic Violence Injunctions: Protecting individuals from abuse within a household.
- Repeat Violence Injunctions: For ongoing harassment or threats from someone outside the household.
- Stalking Injunctions: For individuals experiencing persistent stalking behavior.
Working with a Family Law Attorney
Navigating family law issues alone can be overwhelming. An experienced attorney ensures that:
- Your legal rights are protected
- You understand the legal process
- You achieve the best possible outcome for your case
At McNary Powers, we pride ourselves on honesty, integrity, and compassionate advocacy. We aim to support Bradenton, Lakewood Ranch, and Sarasota families with the legal guidance they need during life’s most challenging transitions.
Conclusion
Family law matters can be complex, but you can navigate them confidently with the proper legal support. If you need assistance with a family law case in Florida, McNary Powers is here to help. Contact us at (941) 345-1662 today to discuss your case and explore your legal options.
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