Clermont Family Attorney

Get Help Moving Forward When Family Matters Become Legal

Family law is concerned with real people facing some of the most emotionally charged situations of their lives. At the Law Office of Erin Morse, we understand that when you come to us, you are dealing with a deeply personal situation, such as a divorce, a custody battle, a paternity dispute, or another family law conflict that requires legal representation.

We do not take your trust in us lightly. Our approach is grounded in personalized service, strong legal skills, and genuine compassion. When you work with our firm, you are gaining an advocate, an ally, and a team that cares about your future.

What Sets Us Apart?

We take a proactive and personalized approach to the cases we handle. Although we can be tough in negotiations or in the courtroom, we are here to support you through the emotional rollercoaster that often comes with family disputes. We offer tailored legal strategies and take the time to understand your story before crafting a legal game that reflects your goals. You deserve to know where your case stands. Our Clermont family attorneys keep you in the loop and explain your options in plain English.

Types of Cases We Handle

Family law is a broad field. We are well-versed in a wide range of family law matters, including the following:

Divorce

No one enters into a marriage expecting it to end, but when divorce becomes the only option, it is important to handle it with clarity and care. Although Florida is a no-fault divorce state, that does not mean the process is simple. Our skilled divorce lawyers can guide you through issues such as property division, parenting plans, and alimony with strategy and sensitivity. We represent clients in all of the following:

Uncontested and contested divorce
Business-owner divorce
High-asset and complex property division
Mediation and litigation
Marital settlement agreements

Child Custody and Time-sharing

Your children are your world. Child custody disputes are among the most contentious and emotionally challenging family law matters. Florida law emphasizes the child’s best interests, as does our firm. If you are establishing a parenting plan or modifying an existing one, we can help you navigate the legal process while fiercely advocating for your parental rights. Custody matters we handle include the following:

Initial custody and time-sharing arrangements
Parental responsibility (shared or sole decision-making authority)
Modification of existing parenting plans
Relocation
Enforcement of court orders

Child Support

Raising a child is expensive, as every parent knows. Child support is a way of ensuring both parents are supporting the child. Although Florida has specific guidelines for calculating child support, it is not always straightforward, for example, if your co-parent is not transparent about income or your situation does not fit neatly into the formula. We are here to help ensure your children get what they need and what the law allows. We can assist with child support calculations and enforcement, modifications due to life or income changes, and addressing unpaid support and arrears.

Paternity

Establishing paternity opens the door to parental rights and responsibilities. In Florida, until paternity is established, an unmarried father does not have any legal rights to the custody of a child or any legal obligation to support the child financially. Whether you are a father seeking custody or visitation or a mother seeking support, our seasoned family lawyers can help protect your rights as a parent, as well as the rights of your child. Paternity can be established in any of the following ways:

Voluntary Acknowledgement of Paternity: This form is available after childbirth at most hospitals or through the Florida Department of Health. It must be signed by both parents, acknowledging they are the natural parents of the child. The Office of Vital Statistics will prepare and file a new birth record upon receipt of the properly signed and notarized form.
DNA testing: If paternity is disputed, genetic testing may be used to determine if a man is likely to be the biological father of a child.
Adoption: For children who have no biological parents or whose parents are not willing to act in that role, adoption is a way to establish paternity legally.

Property Division

Property division during a divorce is about protecting your financial future. Our team can help you navigate Florida’s equitable distribution laws with confidence. We work to ensure property is divided fairly, whether it concerns the family home, business interests, retirement accounts, or hidden assets. Our experienced divorce attorneys take the time to understand your priorities and craft a strategy that reflects your goals. From complex asset valuations to negotiations or litigation, we are here to guide you through the process and to advocate for what matters most in the next chapter of your life.

Alimony

The amount and duration of alimony you pay or receive can drastically affect your financial future. Spousal support is not automatic in Florida. When awarded, the details matter. Although the higher-earning spouse typically pays alimony, no spousal support may be awarded at all if the lower-earning spouse can maintain the current standard of living. As alimony issues are often subjective, it is crucial to have a skilled family law attorney advocating for your interests.

In determining alimony, Florida courts consider various factors, including the following:

Duration of the marriage
Financial contributions to the marriage of each spouse
Non-financial contributions to the marriage of each spouse
Financial resources of each spouse
Age and physical and emotional condition of each spouse
Standard of living established during the marriage
Financial responsibilities for children, such as health insurance and child support

Domestic Violence and Injunctions

Domestic violence cases require immediate strategic legal action. We stand with victims seeking protection through domestic violence injunctions (restraining orders) and move swiftly to secure their safety and legal rights. Having a talented and experienced legal ally can make all the difference in these emotionally charged situations. Your safety and future matter to us. If you are experiencing domestic violence, our firm can act quickly and decisively to protect your rights and well-being.

Estate Planning

Estate planning is about preparing for the future and protecting the people you care about most. Our family law attorneys can help you create a clear, legally sound estate plan that reflects your values and wishes. We can draft wills, trusts, powers of attorney, and healthcare directives, guiding you through each step with clarity and compassion.

Whether you are planning for young children, aging parents, or complex family dynamics, we tailor your estate plan to your unique needs. Having the right legal tools can give you peace of mind and protect what matters most.

Family Law FAQs in Florida

Whether you are dealing with divorce, child custody, support, or another matter, navigating family law issues can seem overwhelming, and naturally, you will have questions. Read our answers to some of the most common questions we hear about family law matters in Florida:

Do I Need a Reason to File for Divorce in Florida?

Florida is a no-fault divorce state, meaning you do not have to prove any wrongdoing, such as adultery or abuse, to file. You simply need to state that the marriage is irretrievably broken. Nevertheless, factors such as infidelity and abuse can play a role in child custody decisions and alimony.

What Is the Difference Between a Contested and an Uncontested Divorce?

In an uncontested divorce, both parties agree on all issues, such as child custody, property division, and support. The agreement makes the process much faster, less stressful, and less expensive. It also allows the parties to have more control over the outcome.

In a contested divorce, on the other hand, the spouses disagree on one or more key issues. This can lead to lengthy negotiations and mediation. If mediation fails, the case typically moves into litigation, and a judge makes final decisions and determinations regarding the disputed issues.

Can I Relocate With My Child After a Divorce?

Under Florida law, relocation is moving 50 miles or more from your principal residence for at least 60 consecutive days. It does not include temporary absences for education, vacation, or healthcare for the child. Relocation requires court approval if the other parent disagrees. The court will consider how the move affects the child’s relationship with both parents and whether it is in the best interests of the child.

How Is Child Support Calculated in Florida?

Florida uses specific guidelines to calculate child support. The formula is based on both parents’ incomes, the number of overnight stays with each parent, childcare costs, healthcare costs, and other expenses. Even if time-sharing is equal, one parent may still owe child support because of differences in income. Child support orders can be modified after a substantial change in circumstances, such as job loss or a significant change in income, or when the child’s needs have changed.

Can Family Law Cases Be Settled Out of Court?

Absolutely. Many family law cases are resolved through mediation or negotiated agreements without going to trial. Florida courts often require mediation before scheduling a trial. Settling out of court can give both parties more control over the outcome, save time and money, and reduce stress.

Do I Need a Lawyer If We Agree on Everything?

Even in the most amicable situations, it is wise to have legal guidance. A judge will need to approve your agreement, and what seems fair to you may not meet Florida’s legal standards. Our Clermont family attorney can review the terms of your agreement, identify any red flags, and help you finalize the process correctly.

What If My Ex Is Not Following the Court Order?

If your former spouse or co-parent is violating a court order related to custody, visitation, or support, you can file a motion to enforce or a motion for contempt. The court can take steps to enforce compliance. Depending on the circumstances, they may include wage garnishment, driver’s license suspension, or even jail time in certain situations.

Tailored Solutions, Strong Support, and Real Results

At the Law Office of Erin Morse, we are not only practicing law. We are helping people move forward with their lives. If your family life is in flux, let us be your anchor. Contact our firm at (407) 900-7451. We will fight for your rights and help you turn the page to whatever comes next.