Fort Lauderdale Divorce Lawyer Serving Broward County

Divorce can feel overwhelming — emotionally, financially and as a parent. You may be worried about your home, your income, your retirement accounts or how much time you’ll have with your children. If you’re considering divorce or have already been served, you deserve clear guidance and a steady advocate who will protect your rights and help you plan for what comes next.

I’m Lorri Fishman, a compassionate and trial-ready Fort Lauderdale divorce attorney with more than 25 years of legal experience — and a divorced mother who has been through the process herself. I combine practical strategy with direct, one-on-one access and the personal attention you expect from a boutique firm, so you can make informed decisions and move forward with confidence. To schedule a free phone consultation, call Lorri K. Fishman, P.A., at 954-928-9832 or email me.

Strategic Divorce Advocacy In Broward County

Choosing a Fort Lauderdale divorce lawyer is about more than filing paperwork. You need a partner who understands the local court system and who prepares your case thoroughly — whether it resolves through negotiation, mediation or litigation.

Clients often come to me because they want personal service without sacrificing courtroom strength. I work hard to move cases toward resolution efficiently and cost-consciously when possible, while still protecting what matters most: your future, your finances and your relationship with your children.

My divorce representation commonly includes guidance on:

• Equitable distribution of assets and debts, including identifying marital vs. nonmarital property and pursuing a fair division
• Alimony (temporary, rehabilitative and durational), including whether spousal support is likely to be awarded and for how long
• Time-sharing and parenting plans, focusing on the child’s best interests while protecting your parental rights
• High-conflict and complex cases, including concerns about hidden assets, inaccurate financial disclosures or repeated noncompliance
• Uncontested and simplified dissolution options for spouses who can reach agreement and want a streamlined process

Whether you’re trying to resolve matters amicably or you anticipate a difficult fight, I will take the time to understand your priorities, explain your options in plain language and build a plan designed to protect what you’ve worked for. If litigation becomes necessary, you can feel confident knowing your case is being handled by an attorney who is prepared to advocate for you in court.

The Divorce Process In Fort Lauderdale (What To Expect In Broward County)

Understanding the steps ahead can reduce stress and help you avoid costly mistakes. Many people come into a divorce with questions about timing, paperwork and what they “have to do” first — especially when children, a home or significant assets are involved. While every case is different, most divorces in Fort Lauderdale and across Broward County follow a similar set of phases, and I’ll guide you through each one so you know what to expect and what decisions need to be made.

1. Filing the petition: One spouse files a Petition for Dissolution of Marriage with the Broward County Clerk, outlining the issues to be resolved (property division, support and parenting matters when applicable).
2. Service and response: After the petition is served, the responding spouse typically has 20 days to file an answer and any counter-petition. Meeting deadlines matters, and early strategy can shape the entire case.
3. Mandatory disclosure and financial affidavits: Florida requires both parties to exchange financial information through mandatory disclosure. I help you gather, organize and present accurate disclosures — and I press for full compliance when the other side is evasive.
4. Negotiation and mediation: Many judges in the 17th Judicial Circuit require mediation before trial. I prepare you for mediation, help you evaluate settlement options and negotiate with your goals in mind.
5. Final resolution: If you reach an agreement, we document the terms and proceed to finalize the divorce. If settlement isn’t possible, I am prepared to litigate and present your case in court.

If you are unsure which path your case will take, I can explain your options and help you choose a strategy that fits your goals, whether that means pursuing a faster, uncontested resolution or preparing for litigation when cooperation isn’t possible. Throughout the process, my focus is on protecting your rights, keeping you informed and working toward a result that sets you up for a more stable future.

Florida Divorce FAQ

When you’re preparing for divorce, endless concerns seem to bubble up to the surface. Below are answers to some of the most common questions I hear from clients in Fort Lauderdale and throughout Broward County.

How long does a divorce usually take in Florida?

It depends on whether your case is contested and how complex the issues are. An uncontested divorce may be resolved in a few months. A contested divorce can take longer, especially when there are disagreements about time-sharing, support or significant assets and debts.

My approach is to keep your case moving, meet all deadlines and push toward an efficient resolution, without pressuring you into an agreement that is not fair or workable.

Will I lose my house if I move out before finalizing my divorce?

Moving out typically does not automatically mean you “lose” the home. Rights to the home are addressed during equitable distribution and may also be affected by temporary court orders, parenting needs, safety concerns and financial circumstances.

Before you move out (or ask your spouse to leave), it’s smart to speak with an attorney so you understand the potential impact on property division, finances and time-sharing.

How is alimony determined, and can it be awarded permanently?

Alimony (spousal support) isn’t automatic in Florida. Courts look at factors such as the length of the marriage, each spouse’s income and earning capacity, the marital standard of living and each person’s needs and ability to pay.

Florida recognizes three types of alimony:

• Temporary
• Rehabilitative
• Durational

Florida does not allow permanent or lifetime alimony. To learn more about how courts evaluate spousal support, visit my page on Florida alimony.

What financial steps can I take to prepare for my divorce?

You can start preparing even before filing. Helpful first steps include:

• Gather key documents (bank statements, credit card statements, pay stubs and tax returns if available)
• List major assets and debts (real estate, retirement accounts, vehicles, loans)
• Build a realistic post-divorce budget (housing, insurance, childcare and everyday expenses)

If you suspect finances are more complicated than they appear, it may also help to consult with a financial professional. In some cases, I coordinate with specialists to clarify financial issues and support a fair outcome.

Mediation or litigation – what should I consider when choosing a divorce method?

The best approach depends on the level of cooperation, trust and conflict. Ask yourself:

1. Can we both negotiate in good faith?
2. Are we both able to speak freely and advocate for ourselves?
3. Do I trust my spouse to be honest and transparent about finances?

If the answer is “yes,” mediation may be a good fit. It is often faster, less expensive and less stressful than litigation, and it allows both spouses more control over the outcome.

If there is a history of domestic violence, ongoing intimidation, major dishonesty or deep disputes, litigation may be necessary. I can help you choose a strategy that matches your reality and protects your interests.

How can I shield my children from the harmful aspects of divorce?

Many children adjust well when they have stability and are protected from conflict. Helpful practices include:

• Keep communication open and age-appropriate, and listen as much as you speak.
• Avoid discussing legal issues or criticizing the other parent in front of your children.
• Maintain consistent routines when possible (school, bedtime, activities).
• Consider counseling or a child therapist if your child is struggling.

Every child is different. I can help you pursue a parenting plan that supports stability and reduces unnecessary conflict. You can also learn more about these issues on my child custody and time-sharing page.

I suspect my spouse is hiding assets – what should I do?

If you suspect hidden assets, document what you can and speak to a lawyer as early as possible. Discovery tools in divorce cases can help uncover financial information, and in more complex situations, I may work with forensic accounting professionals to identify and trace assets. Learn more here: forensic accounting.

If your spouse is being deceptive or refuses to comply with disclosure obligations, I am prepared to take the steps necessary to bring the issue to the court’s attention and pursue an appropriate remedy.

Protecting Your Finances With Accurate Disclosure

Florida divorce cases require both spouses to provide financial information through mandatory disclosure. This step is critical: it affects equitable distribution, alimony and any support calculations. Mistakes, omissions or incomplete records can also create unnecessary delays.

I help you prepare thorough, accurate disclosures and I take steps to ensure your spouse does the same. If something doesn’t add up — missing accounts, unusual transfers or unexplained spending — I can use the discovery process and, when appropriate, work with financial professionals to help identify assets and protect your interests. You can read more about the requirements here: mandatory disclosure in Florida family law.

I Am Ready To Help You Take The Next Step

If you are considering divorce, have been served with papers or need guidance on time-sharing, support or dividing marital property, I am here to help. I will take the time to understand your goals, explain your options clearly and work toward a resolution that protects your future.

Call Lorri K. Fishman, P.A. at 954-928-9832 or email me to schedule a free phone consultation.