You’ve Worked Hard—Now Protect It
You’ve built your career with years of sacrifice, dedication, and focus. Whether you’re a teacher, nurse, entrepreneur, or corporate professional, your income, property, and future security should not be jeopardized just because your marriage is ending.
This guide is for you — the working professional — to help you understand your legal rights, avoid common pitfalls, and protect what you’ve earned.
1. Understanding Marital vs. Non-Marital Property in Florida
Florida is an equitable distribution state, which means everything doesn’t get split 50/50 — it gets divided fairly. Here’s how property is typically categorized:
Marital Property (Subject to Division)
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Home acquired during the marriage
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Retirement accounts and pensions contributed during marriage
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Bank accounts, stocks, and savings built together
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Business value gained during the marriage
Non-Marital Property (Usually Protected)
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Anything you owned before the marriage
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Inheritance or gifts given to you alone
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Some personal injury settlements
Watch out: If non-marital assets were co-mingled (e.g., you put premarital funds in a joint account), they could become marital property
2. High-Earning Professionals: What You Need to Know
If you’re the primary earner, your income, bonuses, and retirement contributions will likely be scrutinized. You may also be expected to pay spousal support (alimony) depending on:
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The length of the marriage
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Your spouse’s financial need
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Your ability to pay
Example: A nurse who has worked 15 years full-time while her spouse stayed at home may be asked to pay temporary alimony — unless it can be proven the spouse is voluntarily underemployed.
3. Business Owners and Self-Employed Professionals
If you own a business (even a side hustle), its value could be split during divorce — even if your spouse never worked in it.
You’ll need:
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A business valuation expert
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Accurate bookkeeping and tax records
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Legal strategies to avoid liquidation or loss of control
4. Retirement Accounts and Pensions
Many professionals don’t realize their 401(k), pension, or IRA can be divided. Even if the account is in your name, contributions during the marriage may belong partially to your spouse.
Good news: Division does not always mean early withdrawal or penalty. A Qualified Domestic Relations Order (QDRO) can help transfer a portion to your ex without tax consequences.
5. Document Everything
Start gathering these documents early:
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Tax returns (last 3–5 years)
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Pay stubs and W-2s
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Bank and investment account statements
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Mortgage and deed information
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Retirement account summaries
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Business records (if applicable)
6. Choose the Right Attorney
You don’t just need any lawyer — you need one who:
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Understands Florida family law
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Has experience with complex financial cases
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Can help you negotiate or fight for a fair division
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Offers realistic guidance, not just promises
The Law Offices of E.F. Robinson, P.A. brings over 30 years of family law experience and understands the unique challenges working professionals face.
Your Future Is Worth Protecting
Divorce is tough, but it doesn’t have to derail everything you’ve built. With the right knowledge and support, you can protect your assets, your peace, and your future.
