Florida Same-Sex Divorce Attorney

Same-sex divorce in Florida follows the same statutory framework as all other dissolution of marriage cases under Chapter 61, Florida Statutes. However, unique legal and factual issues often arise involving parental rights, asset division, and out-of-state marriage recognition.

Protecting Rights in LGBTQ+ Dissolution Cases

Experienced legal representation is critical to ensure that your rights are fully protected.

The Law Office of Tiffany M. Hughes, P.C. represents clients in same-sex divorce proceedings throughout Southwest Florida and the greater Tampa Bay region, including but not limited to, Sarasota County, Manatee County, Charlotte County, DeSoto County, Lee County, Hillsborough County, and Pinellas County. Every consultation is conducted directly with a licensed Divorce and Matrimonial Law Attorney — not a salesperson, not a case manager, and not an intake team.

Marriage Equality and Florida Law

Following the United States Supreme Court’s decision recognizing same-sex marriage nationwide, Florida courts apply identical divorce statutes to same-sex couples.

However, certain issues may require additional legal analysis.

Unique Issues in Same-Sex Divorce

Common complexities include:

  • Determining marital duration when couples cohabited before marriage was legally recognized
  • Parental rights involving assisted reproductive technology
  • Second-parent adoptions
  • Non-biological parent standing
  • Equitable distribution of pre-marriage shared assets
  • Spousal support considerations

 

Careful legal evaluation ensures fair outcomes.

Parental Responsibility and Same-Sex Parents

When children are involved, the court determines parental responsibility and timesharing based on the best interests of the child.

If both spouses are legal parents, custody determinations proceed under standard Florida statutes.

If one spouse is not a legal parent, additional proceedings may be necessary to establish or protect parental rights.

Asset and Debt Division

Florida applies equitable distribution principles in same-sex divorce, dividing:

  • Real estate
  • Retirement accounts
  • Business interests
  • Investments
  • Debts

 

Complex financial structures may require valuation and tracing.

Alimony in Same-Sex Divorce

Alimony determinations are governed by Section 61.08, Florida Statutes, and are based on:

  • Need
  • Ability to pay
  • Length of marriage
  • Standard of living

 

The same statutory factors apply regardless of gender.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is same-sex divorce treated differently in Florida?
The legal framework is the same, but unique factual issues may arise.

Can a non-biological parent seek custody?
Only if legally recognized as a parent or through appropriate legal proceedings.

Does cohabitation before legal marriage count toward alimony?
Generally, the legal duration of marriage controls, though factual history may be relevant in some contexts.

Speak With a Florida Same-Sex Divorce Attorney

If you are facing a same-sex divorce, experienced legal representation ensures your financial and parental rights are fully protected under Florida law.

Contact The Law Office of Tiffany M. Hughes, P.C. to schedule a confidential consultation regarding same-sex divorce in Florida.

Locations

Address

180 North Stetson Avenue, Suite 3500
Chicago, Illinois 60601

Address

1201 6th Ave W STE 100 Unit #677 Bradenton, Florida 34205

Consultation Form
We are always here to help. Please fill out our form and let us know how we can assist you. We will get back to you immediately.
We are always here to help. Please fill out our form and let us know how we can assist you. We will get back to you immediately.

Call us Today
Office Number

 

Locations

Chicago Office
Two Prudential Plaza
180 North Stetson Avenue, Suite 3500
Chicago, Illinois 60601

Sarasota / Bradenton Office
1201 6th Ave W, Suite 100
Bradenton, Florida 34205