Understanding the Divorce Process
How To Prepare & What You Will Need To Do
Choosing to divorce is one of the most stressful and difficult decisions a person may make. Divorce, for many, is an uprooting experience with many adjustments. Moving, finding new employment, making arrangements to spend time with your children - it can be unsettling.
Our attorneys at The Virga Law Firm, P.A. know perfectly well what you are going through, which is why we want to help make this experience less overwhelming. Many of our clients do not really know what to expect when filing for divorce. This page is meant to provide our clients with a better understanding of the divorce process.
Are you considering divorce? Call The Virga Law Firm, P.A. at (800) 822-5170.
Retain Legal Counsel To Get Started
The very first step to the divorce process is to file a divorce petition. The state of Florida is a "no-fault" state, which means that someone can file for divorce without having to prove the marriage failed due to factors such as abuse or adultery. With no-fault divorce, simply demonstrating that the marriage is "irretrievably broken" is sufficient grounds to file for divorce.
The very first step to the divorce process is to file a divorce petition. The State of Florida is a "no-fault" state, which means that someone can file for divorce without having to prove the marriage failed due to factors such as abuse or adultery. With no-fault divorce, simply demonstrating that the marriage is "irretrievably broken" is sufficient grounds to file for divorce.
Types Of Divorce: Contested Vs. Uncontested
Contested divorces - which are known for being lengthy and costly - are when neither party can agree on how to divide their assets or on other divorce-related matters, such as alimony and time-sharing / custody. These types of divorces tend to be heated and emotionally draining for everyone involved. For these reasons, divorce courts encourage couples to strive for uncontested divorces, where both parties can amicably agree on how to settle their divorce.
When divorcing, you have the option to file for one of the following:
- Uncontested dissolution of marriage - This is for couples who can agree on issues such as child custody, alimony, and equitable distribution. It is generally much faster.
- Regular dissolution of marriage - This is the traditional divorce route, which is often contentious when the divorcing couple cannot agree on the issues mentioned above.
Regardless of how difficult your divorce may seem, our lawyers can help you communicate with your spouse's attorney and provide you with the reliable legal counsel you need. If your case must be taken before a court for resolution, we will work to relentlessly protect your rights and interests. After all, this is the type of advocacy that allowed our founder, Mr. Virga, to be selected as a Top 100 Trial Lawyer by The National Trial Lawyers!
Agreeing On Alimony, Child Custody, Equitable Distribution And More
When you turn to our firm for guidance, we will do everything possible to help you walk away with the most favorable case outcome possible, whether this means remaining in the family home, receiving alimony, or having physical custody of your children. Our goal is to help you remain calm and level-headed so that you can make rational decisions for yourself and your family.
We understand how daunting it can be to face so much change. This is why we encourage you to call our office at your earliest convenience. Our team can walk you through the entire divorce process, from start to finish, so you don't have to deal with the stress and concern alone.
Recommended Reading:
- How To Prepare For Your Divorce
- What to Expect in a Contested Divorce
- My Divorce Is Done - Why Am I Back in Court?
- Why Online Divorce Is a Bad Idea
The Virga Law Firm, P.A. is on your side. Request an initial evaluation of your case by contacting us today!
Our Core Values
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The Client Comes First and All Else Will FollowWe take pride in delivering best-in-class client service and experience, understanding the privilege and responsibility we have when assisting clients and their families through legal matters. It is our highest obligation.
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Authenticity and TransparencyWe believe in being transparent about who we are, with ourselves, each other, and our clients and partners. This authenticity builds trust and fosters strong relationships.
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Relentless Pursuit of the WinWe achieve stellar results by focusing on personal and professional performance and goals. Our relentless pursuit ensures we deliver exceptional outcomes for our clients.
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Growth MindsetWe continuously learn, grow, and improve as individuals, as a law firm, and as advocates for our clients. We set and exceed both personal and professional goals to ensure ongoing development.
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OwnershipWe take responsibility for our work and actions, ensuring accountability in all that we do. Our commitment to ownership drives excellence and fosters a culture of trust and reliability.
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Results DrivenWe focus on outcomes and disregard the level of effort required. We have the vision and the discipline to do the work and face challenges to make our vision a reality for our clients.
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Respect and Celebration for One AnotherWe support each other with kindness and respect, emphasizing a positive work culture and celebrating along the way. We respect our clients and support them through their challenges.
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Unquestionable IntegrityWe stand up for what’s right with consistently sound ethics and courageous honesty. Our integrity is the foundation of our practice and guides our actions and decisions.
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We are in it TogetherWe are client and team-focused, committed to the firm’s vision, and act for the greater good. We carry our weight, bring others along, and act with civility, candor, and respect in all interactions.
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ReputationReputation is everything. We strive to have the best personal and professional reputations. We want our reputation to precede us and for opposing counsel to know we are committed to fighting for our clients.
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Associate Attorney, In Person, Panama City Beach Office
Family Law Associate Attorney Position
The Virga Law Firm - Panama City Beach, FL
Are You Ready for More Than Just a Career?
We're not looking for just any lawyer – we're searching for an attorney committed to compassionate and excellent representation. If you're ready to make the practice of law both meaningful and rewarding, this opportunity could be what you've been waiting for. Join a firm where you're appreciated and part of a team dedicated to excellence.
Who We Are
The Virga Law Firm is a dynamic, high-growth family law firm dedicated to providing excellent legal representation and superb client care. Founded by Gerard Virga, who brings over twenty years of legal experience to the practice, our firm has established itself as a leader in family law throughout Florida. Our attorneys hold prestigious positions on various committees for the Family Law Section of the Florida Bar, demonstrating our commitment to shaping and advancing family law practice in our state.
Our core belief is "Caring is Contagious." We understand that nothing is more important than family – it's the bedrock of our civilization and closest to people's hearts. When clients entrust us with their family law issues, we recognize it as the highest honor and responsibility.
Each family is unique and requires specialized attention during the most emotionally trying times in their lives. Our mission is to protect our clients and their families, providing them with a strong new start to their lives. We achieve this by helping one family at a time through our multiple office locations throughout Florida.
Who You Are
The ideal candidate:
- Is obsessed with achieving results for clients
- Has a passion for family law
- Excels at identifying crucial case details
- Loves litigation and is comfortable in the courtroom
- Takes pride in developing litigation strategies
- Has strong negotiation skills with a compassionate approach
- Thrives in fast-paced environments
- Is committed to helping others and leading by example
Minimum Qualifications
- An active member in good standing with the Florida Bar
- Demonstrated experience in family law
- Proven history of passionate representation and client service
- Excellent verbal and written communication skills
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Clio knowledge is a plus)
- Advanced knowledge in litigation and client relations
- Mastery of Zoom video conferencing for court presentations
- Ability to work independently and produce superior work product
Key Responsibilities
- Provide comprehensive legal advice and analysis to clients
- Manage complex high-asset divorce cases
- Handle parental responsibility and timesharing cases
- Navigate cases involving domestic violence, substance abuse, and mental health issues
- Represent clients in court proceedings and mediations
- Draft legal pleadings, motions, and orders
- Lead team members including Paralegals and professional staff
- Maintain a fast-paced workload with attention to detail
Benefits and Perks
- Competitive compensation package based on experience
- Dental and vision insurance options with family coverage
- Progressive Paid Time Off:
- One week per six months
- Up to 80 additional hours accruing each pay period
- Paid holidays and one flex holiday
- Parental and bereavement leave
- Paid continuing legal education, bar dues, and certification dues
- Professional development opportunities
- Supportive team environment
Why Choose The Virga Law Firm
- Unified company culture dedicated to success
- Highly trained support staff including Paralegals and Discovery Specialists
- Diverse caseload and full pipeline from day one
- An environment that encourages innovation and creative problem-solving
- Commitment to personal and professional growth
- No-drama, no-judgment work environment
- Strong focus on team collaboration
Application Process
Interested candidates should submit:
- Current resume
- Writing sample
- Two letters of recommendation
- Cover letter
How to Apply
- Call our career hotline at 850-565-3426
- Submit required documents
Additional Information
- Website: www.thevirgalawfirm/careers
- Email: careers@thevirgalawfirm.com
- Work Location: In-person at Panama City Beach office
- Schedule: Monday to Friday, 8-hour shifts
The Virga Law Firm is an equal opportunity employer committed to building a diverse and inclusive workplace—A background check is required for final candidates.
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