Category Archives: Divorce

Why Do I Need a Lawyer for My Uncontested Divorce?

Even in an uncontested divorce, where both parties agree on key issues, having a lawyer can make the process smoother and more secure. Here’s why hiring an attorney is essential:

Ensuring Proper Documentation

A divorce involves numerous legal documents that must be completed accurately and submitted on time. A lawyer ensures all forms are correctly prepared, minimizing the risk of delays or errors that could complicate your case.

Understanding Legal Rights

Even when both parties agree, it’s vital to understand your legal rights regarding property division, child custody, and support arrangements. A lawyer helps ensure your interests are protected and no important details are overlooked.

Avoiding Future Disputes

An uncontested divorce may seem straightforward, but poorly drafted agreements can lead to misunderstandings or disputes later. A skilled attorney ensures the settlement is clear, comprehensive, and enforceable, reducing the chance of future conflicts.

Navigating State-Specific Laws

Divorce laws vary by state, and an experienced lawyer understands the specific requirements and procedures in your jurisdiction. This knowledge is crucial for a seamless process.

Saving Time and Reducing Stress

Filing for divorce involves navigating the legal system, which can be overwhelming. A lawyer streamlines the process, allowing you to focus on moving forward with your life.

Peace of Mind

Even in amicable situations, having a lawyer gives you confidence that everything has been handled correctly and fairly. This peace of mind is invaluable during a challenging time.

Hiring an experienced attorney like Gary Dolgin, who is Board Certified in Marital and Family Law, ensures your uncontested divorce is managed efficiently, protecting your rights and providing clarity for the future.

With over 34 years in practice, Board Certified Expert in Marital and Family Law, Gary Dolgin is an experienced and knowledgeable divorce attorney in Tampa who can represent your best interests.

To schedule a consultation with Gary S. Dolgin, Attorney At Law, call (813) 999-2772 and it will be our pleasure to help you.

To see what past clients have to say about retaining Gary Dolgin to represent them during their divorce, and to learn more about divorce, visit:
Best Divorce Attorney in Tampa – Gary S. Dolgin

Google Business Page:
Divorce Attorney Near Me – Gary Dolgin
625 E. Twiggs St., Suite 101i
Tampa, Florida 33602

Facebook Page: Tampa Divorce Attorney – Gary Dolgin

How Do I Know If a Divorce Lawyer Is Good?

Choosing the right divorce lawyer can significantly impact the outcome of your case. But with so many attorneys out there, how do you know if a divorce lawyer is good? Here are some key factors to consider when making this important decision.

Experience in Marital and Family Law

A good divorce lawyer should have extensive experience in marital and family law. This specialization ensures they are well-versed in the nuances of divorce proceedings, child custody arrangements, and asset division. An attorney like Gary Dolgin, who has 34 years of experience in this field, brings a wealth of knowledge to the table.

Board Certification

Board certification is a mark of excellence and a testament to an attorney’s expertise. Board Certified Marital and Family Lawyers have demonstrated exceptional expertise, passing a rigorous exam, peer review, and meeting strict experience requirements, including handling complex family law cases. They must complete extensive continuing education and are re-certified every five years, ensuring they stay at the forefront of their field. Choosing a Board Certified lawyer like Gary Dolgin means trusting an expert recognized for their competence, ethics, and dedication to guiding clients through divorce and family law matters.

Strong Communication Skills

Effective communication is crucial in legal matters. A good divorce lawyer should be able to explain complex legal terms in plain language, keep you informed about your case, and be responsive to your concerns. This ensures you are always in the loop and can make informed decisions.

Positive Client Testimonials

Feedback from previous clients can provide valuable insights into a lawyer’s capabilities. Look for testimonials that highlight the attorney’s professionalism, compassion, and success in handling cases similar to yours.

Personalized Attention

Every divorce case is unique, and a good lawyer should offer personalized attention to address your specific needs. They should take the time to understand your situation and develop a strategy that aligns with your goals.

Reputation in the Legal Community

A respected lawyer often has a strong reputation among peers and within the legal community. This can be an indicator of their professionalism and the quality of their work.

How Do I Know If a Divorce Lawyer Is Good?

Determining if a divorce lawyer is good involves considering their experience, credentials, communication skills, and reputation. Attorneys like Gary Dolgin, with decades of experience and board certification in marital and family law, exemplify the qualities you should look for. By choosing a lawyer who meets these criteria, you can navigate your divorce proceedings with confidence.

 

With over 34 years in practice, Board Certified Expert in Marital and Family Law, Gary Dolgin is an experienced and knowledgeable divorce attorney in Tampa who can represent your best interests.

To schedule a consultation with Gary S. Dolgin, Attorney At Law, call (813) 999-2772 and it will be our pleasure to help you.

To see what past clients have to say about retaining Gary Dolgin to represent them during their divorce, and to learn more about divorce, visit:
Best Divorce Attorney in Tampa – Gary S. Dolgin

Google Business Page:
Divorce Attorney Near Me – Gary Dolgin
625 E. Twiggs St., Suite 101i
Tampa, Florida 33602

Facebook Page: Tampa Divorce Attorney – Gary Dolgin

Do Family Law Lawyers Deal with Divorce Cases?

Absolutely, family law lawyers, including Tampa’s own Gary Dolgin, frequently handle divorce cases as a central part of their practice. Divorce is a complex legal area within family law, requiring skilled navigation of sensitive issues like child custody, child support, alimony, and property division. These cases often demand an attorney who can provide both compassionate guidance and knowledgeable advocacy to help clients through this challenging life transition.

 

The Role of Family Law Lawyers in Divorce Cases

Family law lawyers play a pivotal role in divorce cases. They not only manage the legal complexities but also ensure their clients’ rights and interests are protected throughout the process. In Florida, where divorce laws have unique regulations, it is critical to work with a family law attorney familiar with state-specific guidelines. This expertise is vital for securing fair agreements on financial matters, child custody arrangements, and the equitable division of marital assets.

Divorce cases often involve emotionally charged issues, making the attorney’s ability to provide a steady, informed, and compassionate presence invaluable. A lawyer like Gary Dolgin brings years of experience in Florida family law, helping clients feel supported while advocating for outcomes that respect their unique circumstances.

 

Why Consult an Experienced Family Law Lawyer?

For those in Tampa facing the challenges of divorce, consulting an experienced family law attorney can be invaluable. Lawyers like Gary Dolgin provide:

•        Knowledge of Florida Family Law: Expertise in the most recent divorce-related statutes ensures clients achieve legally sound outcomes.

•        Personalized Advocacy: Every divorce case is unique, and an experienced lawyer tailors their approach to meet the client’s individual needs.

•        Emotional and Legal Support: Divorce is not just a legal matter but a deeply personal one, and having a supportive attorney by your side makes a significant difference.

 

With over 34 years in practice, Board Certified Expert in Marital and Family Law, Gary Dolgin is an experienced and knowledgeable divorce attorney in Tampa who can represent your best interests.

To schedule a consultation with Gary S. Dolgin, Attorney At Law, call (813) 999-2772 and it will be our pleasure to help you.

To see what past clients have to say about retaining Gary Dolgin to represent them during their divorce, and to learn more about divorce, visit:
Best Divorce Attorney in Tampa – Gary S. Dolgin

Google Business Page:
Divorce Attorney Near Me – Gary Dolgin
625 E. Twiggs St., Suite 101i
Tampa, Florida 33602

Facebook Page: Tampa Divorce Attorney – Gary Dolgin

Gary S. Dolgin Has Over 33 Years Of Experience as the Best Divorce Attorney in Tampa Florida

Best Divorce Attorney in Tampa Florida

Best Divorce Attorney in Tampa Florida Gary Dolgin is ready to put his vast experience and extensive knowledge in family law to work for you so you can get through your divorce in Tampa Florida as quickly and as peacefully as possible.

“Are you going through a divorce in Tampa, Florida? Are you looking for the Best Divorce Attorney in Tampa Florida?

If you need an Expert in Marital and Family Law in Tampa Florida, I’m Gary Dolgin, one of only 28 lawyers in Hillsborough County who is designated by the Florida Bar as a Board Certified Expert in Marital and Family Law.

When you come into the Law Offices of Gary S. Dolgin, Tampa’s Best Divorce Lawyer, we will treat you like family.

We will guide you through the process, explain to you everything that’s going to happen and help you get through this stressful time.”

~ Gary S. Dolgin, Attorney At Law

Gary S. Dolgin - Tampa's Best Divorce Lawyer

Best Divorce Attorney in Tampa Florida Testimonials

Watch what our divorce clients have to say about Gary Dolgin as a divorce attorney in Tampa, Florida and how he helped them.

Former Divorce Client, Jennifer Is Grateful To Gary Dolgin For Helping Guide Her Through Her Divorce

One of Gary Dolgin’s former divorce clients, Jennifer, is thankful to Gary for helping to guide her through her divorce 14 years ago.

As a Stay-At-Home Mom, Jennifer needed an aggressive and knowledgeable Best Divorce Attorney in Tampa Florida who would help stand up for her and protect her best interests through her divorce.

It took over 2 years for Jennifer and her ex-husband to come to a final divorce agreement and Jennifer is happy that she selected Gary Dolgin to represent her.

Jennifer greatly appreciated Gary’s superior abilities to prepare her for and help her through numerous mediations.

She was also grateful to Gary for making sure that the details of her settlement agreement would allow her to be financially secure as she transitioned from being a Stay-At-Home Mom to entering the workforce again.

Watch this video to hear what Jennifer has to say about Gary Dolgin’s exceptional representation during her divorce.

Divorce Client Melinda Is Grateful To Gary For Helping Her Get Sole Custody Of Her Children & Helping Her Through Her Complicated Divorce

Melinda’s divorce was challenging because her ex-husband was not willing to negotiate on several issues and tried to discredit her with expert witnesses in court.

Having a child with autism and multiple sclerosis, Melinda had not worked outside of the home for over 6 years and had no source of income when she and her ex-husband separated.

Gary Dolgin helped Melinda get an emergency court order for alimony and child support during her divorce to help pay her bills and medical expenses for her child.

Through Gary’s expertise and knowledge during court proceedings as one of the Best Divorce Attorney in Tampa Florida, Gary was also able to defend Melinda against her ex-husband’s expert witnesses and helped Melinda gain sole custody of her two children.

Melinda is grateful to Gary for all the support and superior representation he provided her during her challenging divorce process.

In this video, Melinda shares what she has to say about Board Certified Expert in Marital and Family Law, Gary Dolgin representing her during her divorce and helping her with child custody, alimony, equitable distribution and child support.

Former Family Law Judge, Kevin Carey Retained Gary For His Divorce & Highly Recommends Him

When Kevin Carey served as Hillsborough County Circuit Court Judge in the Family Law Division, Gary Dolgin appeared before him several times representing clients in family law cases.

Kevin Carey was so impressed with Gary Dolgin’s abilities as a divorce attorney and family law attorney, that Kevin retained Gary to be his own divorce attorney when Kevin’s marriage was ending in 2007.

As a former Family Law Judge and fellow Family Law Attorney, Kevin has the utmost respect for Gary as a top divorce attorney in Tampa and Board Certified Expert in Marital and Family Law.

Watch this video to hear what former Judge Kevin Carey has to say about Gary Dolgin.

Best Divorce Attorney in Tampa Florida

Gary S. Dolgin Specializes in All Aspects of Divorce

No matter the complexity and difficulty of your Tampa Florida divorce, Gary S. Dolgin has the knowledge and experience to help you.

Not all divorces in Tampa Florida are the same and Gary Dolgin has helped thousands of people going through all types of divorces in Hillsborough County, Florida, including:

  • High asset divorce
  • High conflict divorce
  • Contested divorce
  • Uncontested divorce
  • Collaborative divorce

With over 33 years of experience as a Best Divorce Attorney in Tampa Florida, Gary Dolgin will help guide you through all the complicated issues that need to be addressed when ending a marriage, especially if children and grandparents are involved, including:

Gary Dolgin Best Attorney in Tampa Florida Locations

Gary Dolgin is a Florida Supreme Court Certified Family Law Mediator who provides Family and Marital Law divorce services throughout Tampa Bay Florida including

In this New York Times article “You Don’t Need a French Vineyard to Have a Prolonged Divorce Proceeding,” divorce lawyers discuss the importance of guiding divorcing couples towards faster resolutions rather than letting disputes drag on.

You can read the full article at: Avoid A Prolonged Divorce

💔 With all the issues that need to be agreed upon during a divorce, emotions can run high, leading to a long, drawn-out process! Even without high-value assets, divorces can drag on due to child custody battles and asset disputes. 🤯

The length of time it takes to settle a divorce is largely determined by the divorcing parties, and how willing they are to settle.

Emotions can run high, and couples can find themselves arguing for months over trivial items.

Mediation can be a big help in speeding up the process, but it ultimately comes down to whether or not the parties are willing to agree. 🕊️

As divorce lawyers, it is important to remind clients that their emotional well-being is just as important as financial settlements. 💼❤️

When divorce attorneys use collaborative approaches between one another, it can help make the divorce process less stressful and more efficient, avoiding unnecessary court battles for their clients. ⚖️✨

With over 33 years in practice, Board Certified Expert in Marital and Family Law, Gary Dolgin is an experienced and knowledgeable divorce attorney in Tampa who can represent your best interests.

To schedule a consultation with Gary S. Dolgin, Attorney At Law, call (813) 999-2772 and it will be our pleasure to help you.

To see what past clients have to say about retaining Gary Dolgin to represent them during their divorce, and to learn more about divorce, visit:
Tampa Divorce Lawyer – Gary S. Dolgin

Google Business Page:
Divorce Attorney Tampa
625 E. Twiggs St., Suite 101i
Tampa, Florida 33602

Facebook Page:
Best Divorce Attorney In Tampa

What constitutes marital assets in Florida?

Best divorce attorney in Tampa, Gary Dolgin shares some important information regarding this.

In Florida, the division of assets and liabilities during a divorce follows the principle of equitable distribution. This means that all marital property and debts are divided fairly between the spouses.

The distribution of all marital assets and marital liabilities, whether equal or unequal, shall include specific written findings of fact as to:

(b) Identification of marital assets, including the individual valuation of significant assets, and designation of which spouse shall be entitled to each asset.

This process begins with a thorough inventory of all assets acquired during the marriage, regardless of whose name the asset is in.

Marital assets can include real estate, bank accounts, retirement accounts, investments, vehicles, businesses, and personal property such as jewelry and furniture.

Both parties are required to disclose all relevant financial information and documents to ensure that all assets are accounted for. This might involve gathering financial statements, property deeds, vehicle titles, business records, and appraisals.

If you’re going through a divorce, it’s crucial to understand your rights and the factors that influence asset and liability division. Seeking guidance from a knowledgeable attorney can ensure a fair outcome.

If you are considering divorce and have questions about equitable distribution, we can help you here at The Law Offices of Gary S. Dolgin.

With over 33 years in practice, Board Certified Expert in Marital and Family Law, Gary Dolgin is an experienced and knowledgeable divorce attorney in Tampa who can represent your best interests.

To schedule a consultation with Gary S. Dolgin, Attorney At Law, call (813) 999-2772 and it will be our pleasure to help you.

To see what past clients have to say about retaining Gary Dolgin to represent them during their divorce, and to learn more about divorce, visit:
Best Divorce Attorney in Tampa – Gary S. Dolgin

Google Business Page:
Divorce Attorney Near Me – Gary Dolgin
625 E. Twiggs St., Suite 101i
Tampa, Florida 33602

Facebook Page: Tampa Divorce Attorney – Gary Dolgin

In Florida, the division of assets and liabilities during a divorce follows the principle of equitable distribution. This means that all marital property and debts are divided fairly between the spouses.

The distribution of all marital assets and marital liabilities, whether equal or unequal, shall include specific written findings of fact as to:

(a) Clear identification of nonmarital assets and ownership interests.

In other words, assets and interests that belong solely to one spouse must be precisely and accurately distinguished because they are not subject to division in a divorce.

These nonmarital assets typically include:

– Property Owned Before Marriage ➡ These are assets one spouse owned before getting married.

-Inheritances ➡ Assets one spouse inherited, regardless of whether they were received before or during the marriage.

– Gifts ➡ Assets given to one spouse individually by a third party.

– Agreements ➡ Assets specified as nonmarital in a prenuptial or postnuptial agreement.

– Exclusions ➡ Assets excluded from marital property by mutual consent of the spouses.

Clear identification ensures these assets are recognized and protected during the division process in a divorce, preventing them from being wrongly classified as marital property.

If you’re going through a divorce, it’s crucial to understand your rights and the factors that influence asset and liability division. Seeking guidance from a knowledgeable attorney can ensure a fair outcome.

If you are considering divorce and have questions about equitable distribution, we can help you here at The Law Offices of Gary S. Dolgin.

With over 33 years in practice, Board Certified Expert in Marital and Family Law, Gary Dolgin is an experienced and knowledgeable divorce attorney in Tampa who can represent your best interests.

To schedule a consultation with Gary S. Dolgin, Attorney At Law, call (813) 999-2772 and it will be our pleasure to help you.

To see what past clients have to say about retaining Gary Dolgin to represent them during their divorce, and to learn more about divorce, visit:
Equitable Distribution Expert Tampa – Gary S. Dolgin

Best Divorce Lawyer in Tampa Explains 5 Compassionate Ways to Support Your Friend During Divorce

When a friend is going through a divorce, your support can be a lifeline. Here are five meaningful ways to be there for them:

1. Make Weekly Plans Together

In the wake of divorce, routines can feel upended and loneliness can set in. Some days of the week may be more difficult to cope with than others for your friend. Especially if they had certain routines with their ex.

Regularly scheduled get-togethers or excursions can provide much-needed stability and companionship. Whether it’s a weekly coffee date, a weekend hike, or a movie night, having something to look forward to can offer a sense of normalcy and comfort.

2. Invite Your Friend To Everything

Divorce can lead to feelings of isolation as social circles shift. Make a conscious effort to include your friend in your plans and gatherings. Even if they decline occasionally, knowing they’re wanted and included can alleviate feelings of loneliness and remind them of their value as a friend.

3. Don’t Trash Their Ex

During conversations about their divorce, maintain a supportive and positive attitude. Avoid speaking negatively about their ex, as it can deepen their pain and complicate their healing process.

Instead, be a supportive listener and offer words of encouragement. They’re going through a tough time, and they need your positivity. Your optimism and empathy can provide much-needed comfort and reassurance.

4. Offer To Help Announce The Split

Announcing the divorce to friends and family can be daunting for your friend. Having to explain what happened, and answer questions may cause more pain and sadness for your friend.

You can offer your assistance by helping them navigate this process so it’s less overwhelming for them.

Whether it’s drafting a message, making phone calls, or updating social media, your support can ease the burden and provide emotional support during this challenging time.

5. Help Them “Rediscover” Themself

Encourage your friend to use this period of transition as an opportunity for personal growth and self-discovery. Perhaps ask them what they used to enjoy doing before they were married, that their ex did not enjoy doing, and do those things together.

Suggest exploring new hobbies, interests, or activities that they may have neglected during their marriage.

Encourage them to prioritize self-care and engage in activities that bring them joy and fulfillment. By rediscovering themselves, they can lay the groundwork for a brighter and more fulfilling future.

Divorce can be a devastating time when your friend may feel lost and alone. The best thing you can do to help them through it is to be compassionate, considerate and involved with them.

Supporting them through divorce requires patience, empathy, and a willingness to be there for them in both good times and bad.

By following these tips, you can provide meaningful support and companionship as they navigate this challenging chapter in their life.

Your friendship and understanding can make all the difference in their journey towards healing and recovery.

If you or someone you know is facing divorce, and need the guidance of an experienced divorce attorney, don’t hesitate to look for the best divorce lawyer in Tampa who can inform you of your rights and help you navigate the laws during your divorce.

Equitable distribution of the parties’ marital assets is the first order of business in divorce cases.

If the court awards a cash payment for the purpose of equitable distribution of marital assets, to be paid in full or in installments, the full amount ordered shall vest when the judgment is awarded and the award shall not terminate upon remarriage or death of either party, unless otherwise agreed to by the parties, but shall be treated as a debt owed from the obligor or the obligor’s estate to the obligee or the obligee’s estate, unless otherwise agreed to by the parties.

As an example, in a divorce settlement, the court orders the husband to pay the wife $100,000 as part of the equitable distribution of their marital assets.

Despite the husband’s remarriage, the obligation to pay the full amount remains, and in the event of his death, the unpaid sum would be considered a debt from his estate to the wife, as agreed upon in their divorce decree.

If you are considering divorce and have questions about equitable distribution, we can help you here at The Law Offices of Gary S. Dolgin.

With over 33 years in practice, Board Certified Expert in Marital and Family Law, Gary Dolgin is an experienced and knowledgeable divorce attorney in Tampa who can represent your best interests.

To schedule a consultation with Gary S. Dolgin, Attorney At Law, call (813) 999-2772 and it will be our pleasure to help you.

Top Divorce Attorney In Tampa – Gary S. Dolgin

Best Tampa Divorce Lawyer Helps You Understand Equitable Distribution of Assets and Liabilities in Divorce

Divorce is a big change that’s often tough emotionally. One major part of divorce is sharing what the couple owns and owes fairly.

This legal process looks at everything the couple has gathered during marriage and divides it between them. Let’s take a closer look at how this works and how an experienced Tampa divorce lawyer can help protect your best interests.

Understanding Assets

First, it’s important to split things into two groups: “marital” and “nonmarital.”

Marital assets encompass properties acquired during the marriage, ranging from tangible assets like homes and vehicles to intangible assets such as bank accounts, investments, and retirement savings.

Conversely, nonmarital assets include properties acquired before the marriage, through inheritance, or designated as non-marital through a prenuptial agreement.

Figuring Out Valuation

Once things are sorted, it’s time to see how much everything is worth.

This can be tricky and might require appraisals, financial experts, expert testimony, or other methods to ascertain the fair market value of each marital asset.

Accurate valuation is paramount as it lays the foundation for an equitable distribution that reflects the true worth of each asset.

Exploring Distribution Factors

With asset valuation completed, the court considers a variety of factors to decide how to distribute them equitably.

The court must begin with the premise that the distribution should be equal unless there is a justification for an unequal distribution based on all relevant factors, which include the following:

(a) The contribution to the marriage by each spouse, including contributions to the care and education of the children and services as homemaker.
(b) The economic circumstances of the parties.
(c) The duration of the marriage.
(d) Any interruption of personal careers or educational opportunities of either party.
(e) The contribution of one spouse to the personal career or educational opportunity of the other spouse.
(f) The desirability of retaining any asset, including an interest in a business, corporation, or professional practice, intact and free from any claim or interference by the other party.
(g) The contribution of each spouse to the acquisition, enhancement, and production of income or the improvement of, or the incurring of liabilities to, both the marital assets and the nonmarital assets of the parties.
(h) The desirability of retaining the marital home as a residence for any dependent child of the marriage, or any other party, when it would be equitable to do so, it is in the best interest of the child or that party, and it is financially feasible for the parties to maintain the residence until the child is emancipated or until exclusive possession is otherwise terminated by a court of competent jurisdiction. In making this determination, the court shall first determine if it would be in the best interest of the dependent child to remain in the marital home; and, if not, whether other equities would be served by giving any other party exclusive use and possession of the marital home.
(i) The intentional dissipation, waste, depletion, or destruction of marital assets after the filing of the petition or within 2 years prior to the filing of the petition.
(j) Any other factors necessary to do equity and justice between the parties.

Court Decisions

In instances where spouses cannot agree on asset division through negotiation or mediation, the court intervenes to render a final decision.

The court’s decision is guided by a commitment to fairness and equity, considering the specific circumstances of the case.

To conclude, equitable distribution of marital assets and liabilities is a multifaceted process that requires attention to detail and a comprehensive understanding of various factors.

It may become overwhelming, but seeking guidance from experienced legal counsel can provide clarity and direction. The goal is to ensure a fair and just division of assets and liabilities so both parties can move on with confidence and peace of mind.

If you’re facing divorce, and need assistance determining equitable distribution of your marital assets and liabilities, don’t hesitate to seek the guidance of the best divorce lawyer in Tampa who can protect your financial interests and advocate for a fair resolution.

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