Best Marriage Lawyers in Doral

About Marriage Law in Doral, United States

Marriage law in Doral, an area situated in Miami-Dade County, Florida, follows the mandates of Florida state law. In Florida, marriage is a legal union between two parties that is recognized by the state. The couple must have a marriage license, which can be obtained from any county court, including Miami-Dade County, where Doral is located. The marriage must be officiated by a person legally recognized to perform marriages in Florida. Doral, like the rest of Florida, permits both opposite-sex and same-sex marriages and adheres to the principles of no-fault divorce, meaning that no proof of wrongdoing is necessary for the dissolution of a marriage.

Why You May Need a Lawyer

There are several circumstances under which individuals might require legal assistance in matters of marriage:

• Marriage Contracts and Prenuptial Agreements: Attorneys can help draft, review, and ensure the legality of prenuptial or postnuptial agreements.
• Divorce Proceedings: Legal representation is crucial to navigate the complexities of divorce, including asset division, alimony, and child custody arrangements.
• Spousal Support and Alimony: Determining fair spousal support requires understanding numerous financial factors and may require a lawyer's expertise.
• Domestic Violence: Lawyers provide guidance on protection orders and related legal actions.
• Child Custody and Support: Legal expertise is often needed to handle the ramifications of custody arrangements and child support obligations.
• Name Changes: Assistance with navigating the bureaucratic process for changing names as part of marriage or divorce.

Local Laws Overview

Key aspects of local marriage laws in Doral, as governed by Florida law, include:

• Marriage Licenses: Couples must both appear in person to apply for a marriage license and provide identification. If either party has been divorced, documentation may be required to prove the divorce is final.
• Waiting Period: Florida imposes a three-day waiting period after the marriage license is issued unless a premarital course is completed, which waives this requirement.
• Age Requirements: Both parties must be at least 18 years old to marry without parental consent. Minors aged 17 may marry with parental approval under certain conditions.
• No-Fault Divorce: Florida allows for "no-fault" divorce, meaning the couple can divorce without assigning blame to either party.

Frequently Asked Questions

What documents do I need to apply for a marriage license in Doral?

You will need a government-issued photo ID, such as a driver’s license or passport. If either party has been divorced or widowed, you will need to provide the date the divorce was finalized or the spouse passed away.

Is a premarital course mandatory for obtaining a marriage license?

No, a premarital course is not mandatory, but taking one can waive the three-day waiting period requirement for Florida residents and reduce the marriage license fee.

Can I get married in Doral if I obtained my marriage license from another Florida county?

Yes, a marriage license issued in any county of Florida is valid for marriages conducted anywhere in the state.

How do we change our names after marriage?

After receiving a certified copy of your marriage certificate, you can change your name on all government IDs, Social Security records, banks, and other official documents by presenting it along with an application.

What should I do if I can't locate my original marriage certificate?

A duplicate certified copy of your marriage certificate can be requested from the Miami-Dade County Clerk's office where it was originally filed.

What constitutes a common law marriage in Florida?

Florida does not recognize common law marriages unless they were established prior to January 1, 1968. Cohabiting does not automatically lead to marital rights or obligations.

How is property divided in a divorce under Florida law?

Florida courts use the principle of equitable distribution, which divides marital assets and liabilities fairly but not necessarily equally based on various contributing factors.

What is alimony and how is it determined?

Alimony, or spousal support, is financial assistance provided to a former spouse post-divorce. It is determined based on the length of the marriage, the financial position of each party, and contributions during the marriage, among other factors.

How is child custody decided?

Florida courts aim to serve the best interests of the child. This means considering the parents’ moral fitness, the child’s wishes, and the capacity of each parent to provide a stable environment.

Can I change my child support obligations?

Modifications to child support agreements can be requested through the court if there is a significant change in circumstances, such as income changes or shifts in childcare responsibilities.

Additional Resources

For those seeking more information or assistance related to marriage in Doral, consider reaching out to these resources:

• Miami-Dade County Clerk of Courts: For marriage licenses and related documents.
• Florida Department of Children and Families: For issues related to child support and custody.
• Legal Aid Society of Miami: Provides legal assistance to eligible individuals for family law matters.
• The Florida Bar Family Law Section: Offers resources and referrals to licensed family law attorneys.

Next Steps

If you believe you need legal assistance regarding marriage, consider the following steps:

• Research and contact a reputable family law attorney in the Doral area for a consultation.
• Gather relevant documents, such as marriage certificates, financial records, and personal identification, to assist your attorney.
• Prepare a list of questions and concerns to address during your legal consultation.
• Consider reaching out to local support groups to better understand your options and rights.
• Stay informed about your legal obligations by reading reputable sources and keeping in touch with your legal counsel.