Contested Divorce Lawyer in Lake Nona FL since 2001, Burns Family Law

When spouses cannot agree on critical issues such as property division, alimony, child custody, or support, the situation often escalates into a contested divorce. If you’re in Lake Nona, a rapidly growing area teeming with professionals, entrepreneurs, and families, it’s imperative to have a contested divorce lawyer who understands both Florida family law and the unique challenges of this innovative community. With over 20 years of family law experience, Nicole Burns of Burns Family Law provides strategic advocacy and compassionate guidance for clients facing high-conflict divorce proceedings.

Key Elements of a Contested Divorce
In Florida, contested divorces typically move through formal stages: filing the divorce petition, serving documents to the other party, engaging in discovery (where financial records and other relevant information are exchanged), attending mediation (when possible), and potentially proceeding to trial if no agreement can be reached. Because Lake Nona residents may have considerable assets—such as homes, businesses, or investments—contested divorce cases in this region can become particularly complex. Nicole conducts a thorough review of these assets, often collaborating with financial professionals to ensure accurate valuations and equitable distributions.

Alimony and Complex Finances
When one spouse has significantly higher earnings or a more robust earning potential, alimony (spousal support) often becomes a sticking point. Courts consider the length of the marriage, lifestyle factors, and each spouse’s financial situation before issuing an award. In Lake Nona—where medical professionals, tech entrepreneurs, and high-level researchers are common—identifying true income and potential future income can be a delicate process. Nicole’s experience in high-conflict divorces helps ensure that income sources and financial obligations are comprehensively analyzed, so you have a clear understanding of what’s at stake.

Child Custody Disputes
Another highly contentious aspect of contested divorces involves child custody—or time-sharing and parental responsibility, as termed in Florida. If parents cannot agree on a parenting plan, the court may intervene, requiring each parent to provide evidence about their living arrangements, relationship with the child, and ability to meet the child’s needs. Nicole gathers and presents compelling documentation—such as medical records, educational evidence, or witness statements—to illustrate why a specific custody arrangement serves the child’s best interests. By focusing on clarity and detail, she positions her clients to advocate effectively for their parental rights.

Why Local Expertise Matters
Lake Nona’s distinct economic climate, high-demand work schedules, and growing population can add layers of complication to divorce proceedings. Nicole’s in-depth familiarity with the region’s professional dynamics and local court systems allows her to craft strategies specifically suited to Lake Nona clients. Whether that means adjusting to unconventional work hours for custody schedules or valuing a newly launched startup, her local insight can streamline negotiations and reduce the stress of the entire process.

Supportive, Transparent Representation
Because contested divorces can be both time-consuming and emotionally draining, Nicole ensures consistent communication from start to finish. She believes that understanding every step of the legal journey empowers clients to make decisions that truly reflect their objectives and values. Whether your case is resolved through tenacious negotiation or escalates to a full trial, Nicole’s dedication to client-centered service helps mitigate conflict and preserves your peace of mind wherever possible.

If you’re in the midst of a contentious separation, consulting a contested divorce lawyer in Lake Nona with robust experience can significantly impact the outcome of your case. Reach out to Nicole Burns at Burns Family Law for a consultation. She stands ready to navigate every challenge—from asset division to child custody—ensuring you receive the skilled advocacy and empathetic support you need to move forward confidently.