Family Law

family law cases are different from every other area of law. the outcome affects not just your finances, it shapes your children's lives, your relationship with your family, and your path forward for years to come.

at bechert & associates, we understand what is truly at stake. we represent clients in divorce, child custody, child support, alimony, paternity, and related family matters throughout Pompano Beach and Broward County with the combination every client deserves: strategic expertise, genuine compassion, and the the willingness to fight when fighting is required.

our attorneys have been practicing family law in south florida for over 30 years. we know the judges. we know the process. and we know how to protect what matters most to you.

Florida Family Law Services

Divorce (Dissolution of Marriage)
Florida is a no-fault divorce state meaning either spouse can file for divorce without proving
wrongdoing. However, fault can still impact certain decisions, particularly those involving financial
misconduct or the impact on children. Whether your divorce involves a simple split of modest assets or
a complex dissolution of a long-term marriage with business interests, retirement accounts, and real
property, our attorneys bring the preparation and precision the situation demands.

Child Custody and Time-Sharing
Florida courts determine child custody based on the best interests of the child. Florida law uses the
term 'time-sharing' rather than custody and 'parenting plan' rather than custody agreement. Courts consider many factors including each parent's ability to provide for the child's needs, each parent's
willingness to facilitate a relationship with the other parent, the child's school and community ties, and
more. Our attorneys advocate fiercely for arrangements that protect your child's well-being and your
parental relationship.

Child Support
Florida child support is calculated using a statutory formula that considers both parents' incomes, the
time-sharing schedule, health insurance costs, and childcare expenses. While the formula provides a
starting point, deviations are possible in certain circumstances. We ensure the calculation is accurate,
fair, and reflective of your actual financial situation and we pursue modifications when circumstances
change.

Alimony (Spousal Support)
Florida alimony law was significantly revised in 2023. Permanent alimony was eliminated, and courts
now use a presumptive cap based on the length of the marriage. Types of alimony include bridge-the-
gap, rehabilitative, durational, and temporary alimony. Each type has specific eligibility requirements
and limitations. Our attorneys help you understand what you may owe or receive and advocate
for an outcome that reflects your circumstances.

High-Asset Divorce
Divorces involving substantial assets business interests, investment portfolios, retirement accounts,
real estate holdings, and art or collectibles require specialized expertise. We work alongside forensic
accountants and financial experts to ensure accurate valuation of all marital assets, identification of
hidden income or assets, and equitable distribution that reflects what you are actually entitled to.

Paternity
Establishing paternity in Florida creates legal rights and responsibilities for both parent and child. For
fathers, it is the foundation of the right to be in your child's life. For mothers, it is the basis for child
support. For children, it means access to a second parent's financial support, medical history, and
inheritance rights. We handle paternity actions and disestablishment of paternity when DNA evidence
contradicts a presumption of fatherhood.

Domestic Violence Injunctions
Domestic violence injunctions (restraining orders) have serious legal consequences including
restrictions on where you can live, limitations on firearm ownership, and impact on child time-sharing.
Whether you are seeking protection from an abusive situation or responding to an injunction filed
against you, our attorneys provide experienced, discreet representation.