Ending Your Marriage in Orlando Safely

Safety is a primary concern for many divorcing spouses in Orlando. The news of an ending marriage can cause spouses to react in unpredictable, potentially dangerous ways. Fortunately, there are a few simple steps spouses can take to protect themselves and their children during this difficult process. To learn more about the most appropriate course of action, contact a divorce lawyer.

You Can Meet With a Lawyer Before Deciding on Divorce 

First, you should know that you can meet with a lawyer even if you’re not sure whether you want to move ahead with a divorce. During this initial consultation, you can discuss any specific concerns you might have about your personal safety. Remember, these discussions are completely confidential – and your lawyer is prohibited from repeating any details with other people.

This is called “client-attorney privileges,” and it is one of the most important regulations lawyers must follow. With the right strategy, you do not need to worry about your spouse finding out about your plans to move forward with a divorce.

 Consider a Restraining Order 

A restraining order can address many safety concerns spouses might have when pursuing divorce. Also known as “protective orders,” these court orders prevent your spouse from coming into contact with you. Some spouses strategically file for divorce and request protective orders at the same time, thereby protecting themselves from retaliatory violence. An experienced family law attorney can help with both restraining orders and divorce filings.

 Consider Shuttle Mediation 

Many spouses assume that if there is a history of violence in the marriage, mediation becomes impossible. However, alternative dispute resolution (ADR) could still be a viable process with the right safeguards. “Shuttle mediation” is a process in which spouses conduct negotiations while sitting in different rooms. They never actually come into contact with each other, and they can discuss their divorce without the threat of violence or angry words.

 Be Prepared to Gather Evidence of Misconduct 

Spouses might also want to prepare to gather evidence of misconduct or violence after filing for divorce. Although this doesn’t necessarily prevent the violence from occurring, it can dissuade further acts. For example, you might record your ex engaging in violent acts – and you could use this recording during later divorce proceedings.

However, you should keep in mind that Florida is a two-party consent state when it comes to secret recordings. In other words, your recordings could become inadmissible as evidence if you do not get their permission to start filming. The only exception is if the violence occurred in public, where there is no “reasonable expectation of privacy.”

Can a Divorce Lawyer in Orlando Help Me End My Marriage Safely? 

A divorce lawyer in Orlando can help you end your marriage in a safe, effective way. Although restraining orders and other steps can improve safety, each relationship is different. As a result, each divorce might require a targeted safety strategy for best results. To discuss your specific concerns and priorities, book a consultation with Steve Marsee, P.A. today.

Sources:

 dmlp.org/legal-guide/florida-recording-law

flcourts.gov/Resources-Services/Office-of-Family-Courts/Family-Court-in-Florida/Domestic-Violence/Overview-for-Respondents