Tampa Divorce Attorney | Experienced Family Law Representation in Hillsborough County

Divorce is one of the most significant legal and personal decisions a person can face. Whether you are considering filing for divorce, have already been served with a petition, or need guidance on custody, support, or the division of marital property, having an attorney who understands the local rules and procedures in Hillsborough County can make a critical difference in how your case is handled and ultimately resolved.

Tampa is the county seat of Hillsborough County and home to the George Edgecomb Courthouse, where the Family Law Division hears all divorce and family law cases filed in the county. The family law judges in Hillsborough County have adopted a detailed Standing Temporary Order that applies to every family law case filed in the county. This order takes effect automatically and imposes specific duties, responsibilities, and restrictions on both parties from the moment the case begins. Understanding what the order requires—and how it shapes the expectations of the Hillsborough County family law judges—is essential for anyone going through a divorce in Tampa or the surrounding area.

Filing for Divorce in Tampa and Hillsborough County

Florida is a no-fault divorce state, which means that neither spouse is required to prove wrongdoing by the other to obtain a dissolution of marriage. The only ground required is that the marriage is irretrievably broken. To file for divorce in Hillsborough County, at least one spouse must have been a resident of the State of Florida for a minimum of six months prior to filing the petition.

Divorce petitions in Hillsborough County are filed with the Hillsborough County Clerk of Courts. Once the petition is filed and the other party is served, the case is assigned to a family law judge within the Family Law Division. The Petitioner is required to serve a copy of the Standing Temporary Order along with the petition, and the order becomes binding on the Respondent upon service. The order remains in effect until a final judgment is entered, and any part of the order that is not changed by a subsequent order remains in force throughout the case.

Hillsborough County’s Standing Temporary Order for Family Law Cases 

The Standing Temporary Order for Family Law Cases adopted by the Hillsborough County Family Law Division is one of the most detailed standing orders in the state. It applies to all family law cases—not just contested matters—and covers both cases involving minor children and those that do not. The order is designed to ensure that parties understand their duties and responsibilities during the pendency of the case, preserve their assets, comply with court rules, and—where children are involved—prioritize the well-being and stability of those children above all else.

The Standing Order addresses a comprehensive range of issues that affect families going through a divorce or other family law matter in Hillsborough County:

Shared Parenting and Contact with Both Parents

The Hillsborough County Standing Order begins with a strong and direct statement about shared parenting. The order makes clear that contact with both parents is in the children’s best interest and that children are entitled to frequent and continuing contact with both parents when the parents separate or divorce. A parent who seeks to be the majority timesharing parent has an affirmative obligation to encourage and nurture a relationship between the children and the other parent. The order goes further: it states explicitly that a parent who restricts the other parent’s access to the children and does not encourage that relationship, without good reason, may not be designated the majority timesharing parent. The court views such conduct as contrary to the children’s best interests and contrary to the law.

In nearly all cases, the Hillsborough County judge will order shared parenting, meaning both parents must confer and agree on all parenting decisions. Both parents are expected to participate in all parenting decisions and to work out their own timesharing schedules immediately. If the parents cannot agree on any issue, the judge will decide.

Treatment of Children

The Hillsborough County Standing Order includes one of the most comprehensive sets of guidelines for the treatment of children found in any Florida circuit. The order states that the safety, financial security, and well-being of the children are the judge’s primary concern. It then sets forth detailed principles that both parents are expected to follow throughout the case. Among them: children have a right to a loving, open, and continuing relationship with both parents and to express love, affection, and respect for one parent in the presence of the other. Neither parent may alienate a child’s affection for the other parent. Parents must separate any bad feelings for one another from their duties as parents. Children have the right to never hear a parent, relative, or friend of a parent belittle or degrade the other parent.

The order further provides that children have the right to be free of guilt because the parents have decided to separate. They are entitled to honest answers about changes taking place in the family, but information regarding the divorce case itself should not be discussed with the children. Parents should never become so preoccupied with their own problems that they fail to meet the children’s needs. The order reminds parents that separation usually has a worse impact on the children than on the parents—a fact both parents should never forget.

Additional guidelines address communication between parents (open, honest, respectful, and regular), the prohibition on arguing about the children in front of them, the importance of presenting a united front in handling problems, and the requirement that parents arrange visitation and exchanges between themselves—not through the children. Visitation plans should be kept and never canceled unless necessary, and if plans change, the changes should be explained, preferably in advance, and by the parent causing the cancellation. Between visits, children should be encouraged to contact the absent parent by letter and phone, frequently and continuously. Both parents are entitled to participate in and attend all special activities in which their children are engaged, including religious activities, school programs, sports events, and other extracurricular programs. Parents should share information concerning their children’s activities and school information.

The order also makes a point that is sometimes misunderstood: a parent’s access to a child and child support are separate and distinct under the law. A child’s right to access to a parent does not depend upon the payment of child support, and a child should never be used as the delivery person for support payments or other communication between parents.

Mandatory Parenting Course

Both parents must attend and complete an approved Parent Education course. Completion is mandatory in all cases—contested or uncontested—where the parties have minor children, even if the parties have already settled. The Hillsborough County Standing Order requires that both parents complete the course within sixty days after the action is filed. If a certificate of completion for both parents is not in the court file, the judge may refuse to sign a final judgment. This deadline is shorter than the forty-five-day window provided in some other Florida counties, so prompt enrollment is important.

No Residential Relocation of Children

The Standing Order prohibits either party from removing, causing to be removed, or permitting the removal of any minor child from their current county of residence for residential purposes without the written agreement of both parties or an order from the judge. This means that while the case is pending, neither parent may relocate with the children outside of Hillsborough County without consent or court approval. Temporary travel is not prohibited, but any permanent change of residence that would take the children out of the county requires advance authorization.

Children May Not Be Brought to Court

The Hillsborough County Standing Order includes an explicit prohibition on bringing children to court. Under the Florida Family Law Rules, a court order obtained upon a motion and hearing is required before a child may testify. Parents must not bring children to court unless such an order has been signed, with limited exceptions for adoptions and name changes involving a minor over the age of twelve. This provision reflects the court’s commitment to shielding children from the adversarial aspects of the litigation process.

Disposition of Assets

The Standing Order provides that neither party may conceal, damage, or dispose of any marital asset, and neither party may dissipate the value of a marital asset. The parties may continue to spend their incomes in the ordinary course of their personal and family affairs. However, neither party may conceal or waste jointly held funds, whether in the form of cash, bank accounts, or other liquid assets. This provision applies to all family law cases in Hillsborough County, not just those involving children.

Personal and Business Records and Insurance

Neither party may directly or indirectly conceal from the other or destroy any family records, or any records of income, debt, or other obligations. All insurance policies in effect at the time the petition was filed—including health, auto, life, homeowners, and disability insurance—may not be terminated, allowed to lapse, concealed, modified, borrowed against, pledged, or otherwise encumbered by either party. The beneficiaries on all insurance policies of every kind may not be changed except by agreement of the parties or a court order. All premiums must continue to be paid on a timely basis.

Additional Debt

Neither party may incur additional debt that would bind the other party or tie up any assets. Joint credit cards may only be used for necessities of life, and any party using a joint credit card after separation must be prepared to justify all charges as reasonable and necessary. The Hillsborough County family law judges expect both parties to exercise restraint with joint credit and shared financial obligations during the pendency of the case.

Mediation and Alternative Cooperation

The Hillsborough County Standing Order encourages mediation early in the proceedings, recognizing it as an opportunity to reach a reasonable negotiated agreement on some or all issues and potentially achieve substantial cost savings. Mediation is mandatory before any temporary relief hearing and within six months of the final hearing. Beyond mediation, the order sets a broader expectation: litigation must be conducted courteously and cooperatively. The judge can sanction unprofessional and uncooperative behavior in any case and may award attorney’s fees if either party or their counsel is found to have been unduly uncooperative, resulting in prolonged or needless litigation. This provision reflects the Hillsborough County court’s strong preference for civility and good-faith participation in the legal process.

Financial Affidavits and Mandatory Disclosure

Both parties are required to file and exchange financial affidavits and mandatory disclosure in accordance with Florida Family Law Rule of Procedure 12.285. Complete and timely financial disclosure is a foundational requirement of any family law case in Hillsborough County, and the failure to comply can result in sanctions, adverse inferences, and other consequences.

Courtroom Conduct and Behavior

The Hillsborough County Standing Order includes a section on courtroom conduct that is not found in the standing orders of most other Florida circuits. The order states that all courtroom proceedings must be conducted with dignity, decorum, courtesy, and civility. All parties and their lawyers must dress appropriately—shorts, tank or halter-tops, undershirts, and caps or hats are not permitted. The order warns that a court proceeding is not a forum where anyone can say whatever they want whenever they feel like it. Parties called as witnesses must answer only the questions asked and may not volunteer information or make arguments while testifying. Interruptions, sarcasm, and insults will not be tolerated. Parties are told not to start an argument with or threaten anyone. While this may seem like common sense, the inclusion of these expectations in a formal standing order reflects the court’s commitment to maintaining a professional and orderly environment in family law proceedings.

Self-Represented Parties

The Standing Order addresses self-represented or “pro se” litigants directly, making clear that a party without a lawyer is not entitled to special treatment or privileges and must follow the same rules that govern practicing lawyers. Judges and their judicial assistants are prohibited by law from giving legal advice to unrepresented parties and must remain entirely neutral and impartial. However, the Family Law Division does maintain a Case Management Unit at the George Edgecomb Courthouse in Tampa, which can provide forms, information about community resources, answers to basic procedural questions, and some assistance with scheduling hearings. Self-represented parties should understand that the Case Management Unit staff is not their lawyer, legal advisor, or secretarial service.

Family Law Services in Hillsborough County 

While divorce is the most common family law matter, the Family Law Division in Hillsborough County handles a broad range of related cases. An experienced Tampa family law attorney can provide guidance and representation across all of these areas.

Equitable Distribution of Assets and Debts

Florida is an equitable distribution state, meaning that marital assets and liabilities are divided fairly—though not necessarily equally—between the spouses. Tampa is a major metropolitan area with a diverse economy, and Hillsborough County divorce cases frequently involve complex asset portfolios including business interests, professional practices, real estate holdings, stock options, retirement accounts, and military benefits. Careful valuation and strategic negotiation are essential to achieving a fair result.

Alimony

Florida law provides for several types of alimony, and the appropriate form of support depends on the length of the marriage, each party’s financial circumstances, and other statutory factors. A Tampa divorce attorney can evaluate your situation and advise you on whether you may be entitled to receive alimony or may be required to pay it, and what amount and duration may be appropriate given the specific facts of your case.

Child Custody and Timesharing

Florida uses the term “timesharing” rather than “custody” to describe the schedule by which each parent spends time with the children. The court’s primary consideration is always the best interests of the child. As the Hillsborough County Standing Order makes abundantly clear, the family law judges in Tampa expect both parents to actively foster the child’s relationship with the other parent, and a parent who fails to do so risks losing their position as the majority timesharing parent. The detailed treatment-of-children guidelines embedded in the Standing Order reflect the seriousness with which Hillsborough County judges approach custody determinations.

Paternity Actions

For unmarried parents in Hillsborough County, establishing paternity is a critical legal step that formalizes parental rights, establishes a timesharing arrangement, and creates an enforceable child support obligation. A Tampa family law attorney can guide you through the paternity process and help ensure that the rights of both the parent and the child are protected.

Modifications and Enforcement

After a final judgment has been entered, circumstances may change in ways that require a modification of the original terms. Whether the issue involves timesharing, child support, or alimony, the party seeking a modification must demonstrate a substantial, material, and unanticipated change in circumstances. If the other party is not complying with the terms of a final judgment or court order, enforcement proceedings—including contempt of court—may be necessary. The Hillsborough County family law judges have broad authority to enforce their orders and hold non-compliant parties accountable.

Prenuptial and Postnuptial Agreements

A well-drafted prenuptial or postnuptial agreement can provide significant clarity and protection in the event of a future divorce. Florida law recognizes and enforces these agreements, provided they meet requirements regarding financial disclosure, voluntariness, and fairness. A Tampa family law attorney can draft, review, or challenge a prenuptial or postnuptial agreement to ensure your interests are fully protected.

Domestic Violence Injunctions

In cases involving domestic violence, the Hillsborough County courts can issue temporary and permanent injunctions for protection. These injunctions can affect timesharing, possession of the marital home, and other aspects of a family law case. If you are the victim of domestic violence or have been served with an injunction petition, obtaining experienced legal representation promptly is essential.

Why Choosing a Local Tampa Attorney Matters 

Family law cases in Hillsborough County are governed not only by the Florida Statutes and the Florida Family Law Rules of Procedure, but also by the local Standing Temporary Order and other administrative rules specific to the Family Law Division. The Standing Order discussed on this page is one of the most detailed in the state, with extensive guidelines on the treatment of children, explicit expectations for courtroom conduct, and strong language regarding the consequences of uncooperative behavior. An attorney who regularly practices in the Hillsborough County family courts will be familiar with these local requirements, the expectations and preferences of the individual judges, and the procedures for scheduling hearings, mediations, and trial dates at the George Edgecomb Courthouse.

Tampa and the surrounding communities within Hillsborough County—including Brandon, Plant City, Temple Terrace, Riverview, Valrico, Lutz, and Town ’N’ Country—are all served by the same courthouse and the same family law judges. Whether you live in downtown Tampa, South Tampa, or anywhere else in Hillsborough County, your divorce or family law matter will be heard at the George Edgecomb Courthouse, and the same Standing Temporary Order will apply to your case from day one.

Why Fairway Law Group 

If you are facing a divorce or any other family law issue in Hillsborough County, the most important step you can take is to consult with an experienced Tampa family law attorney who can explain your rights, help you understand the Standing Temporary Order and other local rules that will govern your case, and develop a strategy tailored to your specific circumstances. Early legal guidance can help you avoid costly mistakes and put you in the strongest possible position as your case moves forward.

Contact our office today to schedule a consultation and learn how we can help you navigate the family law process in Hillsborough County.

Fairway Law Group – Orlando Office
722 W Smith St
Orlando, FL 32804
(407) 920-3293

Serving Orange County and Central Florida in all family law matters, with a focus on contested divorces and high-stakes custody disputes.