The Joseph Firm, P.A.

Directions Website Contact the practice

The Joseph Firm, P.A. The Joseph Firm specializes in Marital and Family law matters

Specializing in Family Law, Including Divorce, Paternity, Child Support, Child Support, Time Sharing, and Domestic Violence.

⚖️ DIVORCE SERIES | PART 4: WHAT IS A GUARDIAN AD LITEM IN FLORIDA? 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦In certain Florida family law cases, the cour...
10/19/2026

⚖️ DIVORCE SERIES | PART 4: WHAT IS A GUARDIAN AD LITEM IN FLORIDA? 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦

In certain Florida family law cases, the court may appoint a GUARDIAN AD LITEM (GAL) to help protect the child's best interests during legal proceedings.

⚖️ WHAT DOES FLORIDA LAW SAY?

Under Florida Statute § 61.401, Appointment of Guardian Ad Litem:

“In an action for dissolution of marriage or for the creation, approval, or modification of a parenting plan, if the court finds it is in the best interest of the child, the court may appoint a guardian ad litem to act as next friend of the child, investigator or evaluator, not as attorney or advocate. The court in its discretion may also appoint legal counsel for a child to act as attorney or advocate; however, the guardian and the legal counsel shall not be the same person. In such actions which involve an allegation of child abuse, abandonment, or neglect as defined in s. 39.01, which allegation is verified and determined by the court to be well-founded, the court shall appoint a guardian ad litem for the child. The guardian ad litem shall be a party to any judicial proceeding from the date of the appointment until the date of discharge.”

⚖️ IS A GUARDIAN AD LITEM REQUIRED IN EVERY DIVORCE?

NO!

However, when an allegation of child abuse, abandonment, or neglect is verified and determined by the court to be well-founded, the court must appoint a guardian ad litem under the circumstances specified in § 61.401.

đź’ˇ WHY DOES THIS MATTER?

A guardian ad litem does not represent either parent. The guardian's role is to assist the court in evaluating the child's best interests, not to advocate for a particular parent's desired outcome.

đź’¬ LET'S TALK ABOUT IT!

COMMENT BELOW: Did you know that a guardian ad litem is different from an attorney appointed to represent a child? Do you think guardians ad litem should be appointed more frequently in contested parenting cases?

📲 FOLLOW THE JOSEPH FIRM for more information about Florida divorce, parental rights, parenting plans, and family law!

đź”” COME BACK FOR PART 5

⚖️ DIVORCE SERIES | PART 3: SHARED VS. SOLE PARENTAL RESPONSIBILITY IN FLORIDA 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦Florida law distinguishes between ...
10/16/2026

⚖️ DIVORCE SERIES | PART 3: SHARED VS. SOLE PARENTAL RESPONSIBILITY IN FLORIDA 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦

Florida law distinguishes between SHARED PARENTAL RESPONSIBILITY and SOLE PARENTAL RESPONSIBILITY. But what exactly is the difference?

⚖️ WHAT IS SHARED PARENTAL RESPONSIBILITY?

Under Florida Statute § 61.046(17):

“Shared parental responsibility” means a court-ordered relationship in which both parents retain full parental rights and responsibilities with respect to their child and in which both parents confer with each other so that major decisions affecting the welfare of the child will be determined jointly.

⚖️ WHAT IS SOLE PARENTAL RESPONSIBILITY?

Under Florida Statute § 61.046(18):

“Sole parental responsibility” means a court-ordered relationship in which one parent makes decisions regarding the minor child.

đź’ˇ WHY DOES THIS MATTER?

Because parental responsibility can affect who makes important decisions about a child's education, healthcare, and overall well-being.

Understanding the distinction is essential when navigating divorce, parenting plans, and parental rights in Florida.

COMMENT BELOW: Do you think major decisions involving children should always be made jointly, or are there circumstances where one parent should have sole decision-making authority?

📲 FOLLOW THE JOSEPH FIRM for more information about divorce, parental rights, and Florida family law! 🔔 COME BACK FOR PART 4



IMPORTANT: It's crucial to know that every family (or marital) case is different and unique (with its own set of facts). Therefore, it's vital that you discuss your specific situation with a Florida licensed attorney.

This communication does not create or constitute an attorney-client relationship with The Joseph Firm, P.A., and its important to keep in mind that this communication is not intended as a solicitation as it is for educational purposes only, nor is this communication intended to convey or constitute legal advice and is not a substitute for obtaining legal advice from an attorney.

⚖️ DIVORCE SERIES | PART 2: WHAT COUNTS AS INCOME IN A FLORIDA DIVORCE? 💰Think income only means your paycheck? THINK AG...
10/15/2026

⚖️ DIVORCE SERIES | PART 2: WHAT COUNTS AS INCOME IN A FLORIDA DIVORCE? 💰

Think income only means your paycheck? THINK AGAIN!

When it comes to divorce in Florida, income is NOT limited to wages and salary!

Under Florida law, income can come from MANY different sources, and understanding what qualifies as income can be important when determining financial obligations during a divorce.

đź’µ So, what counts as income?

âś… Wages and salaries
âś… Commissions and bonuses
âś… Independent contractor and self-employment compensation
âś… Workers' compensation benefits
âś… Disability benefits
âś… Retirement benefits, annuities, and pensions
âś… Dividends and interest
âś… Royalties and trust distributions
âś… Other payments from individuals, businesses, or government entities

⚖️ IMPORTANT EXCEPTION: Certain benefits, including U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs disability benefits and unemployment compensation, are excluded from this statutory definition of income, except for purposes of establishing an amount of support.

📣 LET'S TALK ABOUT IT!

đź’¬ COMMENT BELOW: Did you know that income could include retirement benefits, dividends, and even royalties? Which one surprised you the most?

📲 FOLLOW THE JOSEPH FIRM for more information about Florida divorce and family law!

đź”” COME BACK FOR PART 3 of our Divorce Series, where we'll continue breaking down Florida divorce law, one topic at a time!



This communication does not create or constitute an attorney-client relationship with The Joseph Firm, P.A., and its important to keep in mind that this communication is not intended as a solicitation as it is for educational purposes only, nor is this communication intended to convey or constitute legal advice and is not a substitute for obtaining legal advice from an attorney.

⚖️ INTRODUCING OUR NEW DIVORCE SERIES! | PART 1: FLORIDA RESIDENCY REQUIREMENTSDivorce can be complicated, but understan...
10/14/2026

⚖️ INTRODUCING OUR NEW DIVORCE SERIES! | PART 1: FLORIDA RESIDENCY REQUIREMENTS

Divorce can be complicated, but understanding your legal rights doesn't have to be!

At The Joseph Firm, P.A., we're launching a new Divorce Series designed to break down Florida divorce laws, answer common questions, and provide valuable information to help you better understand the divorce process.

📚 PART 1: DO YOU HAVE TO LIVE IN FLORIDA TO FILE FOR DIVORCE?

Before filing for divorce in Florida, you must meet certain residency requirements.

Under Florida Statute § 61.021, at least one spouse must have resided in Florida for a minimum of six months immediately before filing a petition for dissolution of marriage.

âś… Both spouses do NOT have to live in Florida.

âś… Only one spouse must satisfy the six-month residency requirement.

âś… Meeting this requirement is an essential first step toward obtaining a divorce in Florida.

đź’¬ WE WANT TO HEAR FROM YOU!

What questions do you have about divorce in Florida? Drop them in the comments! Your question might inspire an upcoming installment of our Divorce Series.

đź”” Follow along for Part 2 of our Divorce Series, where we'll continue breaking down the laws and legal issues surrounding divorce in Florida.



This communication does not create or constitute an attorney-client relationship with The Joseph Firm, P.A., and its important to keep in mind that this communication is not intended as a solicitation as it is for educational purposes only, nor is this communication intended to convey or constitute legal advice and is not a substitute for obtaining legal advice from an attorney.

You should not act upon any communication or information without first seeking professional legal counsel on your specific matter as every case is different.

Additionally, the hiring of an attorney is an important decision that should not be based solely upon this communication or any other advertisements, whether online or other method.

✨ Honoring Hispanic Heritage Month! ✨At The Joseph Firm, P.A., we believe that the strength of our team lies in the uniq...
10/13/2026

✨ Honoring Hispanic Heritage Month! ✨

At The Joseph Firm, P.A., we believe that the strength of our team lies in the unique backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives each individual brings to the table.

As we continue celebrating Hispanic Heritage Month, we are excited to shine the spotlight on our Law Clerk, Selena Stewart, and recognize her as part of this special celebration!

Hispanic Heritage Month reminds us of the importance of embracing our roots, celebrating cultural identity, and recognizing the next generation of professionals who will help shape the future of the legal community.

We are delighted to have Selena on our team and look forward to seeing all that she will accomplish as she continues her journey in the legal profession.

Here's to celebrating heritage, embracing opportunity, and inspiring future generations! 🌎⚖️

🌟 Celebrating Hispanic Heritage Month! 🌟In honor of Hispanic Heritage Month, The Joseph Firm, P.A. is proud to recognize...
10/12/2026

🌟 Celebrating Hispanic Heritage Month! 🌟

In honor of Hispanic Heritage Month, The Joseph Firm, P.A. is proud to recognize and celebrate our very own Marissa Madruga, Associate Attorney!

Hispanic Heritage Month is a time to honor the rich cultures, traditions, histories, and contributions of the Hispanic community. It is also an opportunity to recognize the individuals whose talents, perspectives, and dedication continue to enrich our profession and communities.

We are proud to have Marissa as part of The Joseph Firm family and celebrate the contributions she makes to our team and the legal profession.

Join us in celebrating Hispanic heritage and the diversity that makes our community stronger! 🌎⚖️

At The Joseph Firm, P.A., we proudly celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month by recognizing the rich cultures, remarkable achi...
10/09/2026

At The Joseph Firm, P.A., we proudly celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month by recognizing the rich cultures, remarkable achievements, and lasting contributions of the Hispanic and Latino communities.

From trailblazers in the legal profession to leaders, entrepreneurs, and families who continue to shape our communities, Hispanic heritage is woven into the fabric of our nation's history and future.

As a firm committed to advocacy, diversity, and inclusion, we honor the traditions, resilience, and accomplishments of the Hispanic community and recognize the importance of ensuring that every voice is heard and every family is valued.

Happy Hispanic Heritage Month from all of us at The Joseph Firm, P.A.!

The Joseph Firm was proud sponsor the  .miami     Professionals Network  Black Professionals Network’s inaugural Certifi...
10/06/2026

The Joseph Firm was proud sponsor the .miami Professionals Network Black Professionals Network’s inaugural Certified Legends Ball, Miami’s premier evening honoring legacy builders and celebrating excellence, leadership, philanthropy, and community impact. 🖤✨

Congratulations to The Black Professionals Network on a successful event, and particularly to the amazing Kenasha Paul for her inspiring commitment to the advancement and betterment of the black community!!!

Held at the stunningly beautiful and gorgeous The Concours Club The Concours Club, the Certified Legends Ball marked the opening night of LegacyCon Weekend 2026, bringing together exceptional Black professionals and leaders from across South Florida for an evening centered on one powerful idea: legacy is not only what we build for ourselves, but what we leave behind for others.

The evening also celebrated the launch of BPN’s Certified Legacy Fund, an initiative designed to mobilize resources toward organizations creating meaningful, measurable impact in our communities through financial security and wellness, access and representation, entrepreneurship and ownership, and education and STEAM opportunities.

We are honored to support Black Professionals Network and its continued work to expand economic opportunity, strengthen communities, and create pathways for the next generation of leaders and legacy builders.

Congratulations to the honorees, organizers, and everyone who helped make the inaugural Certified Legends Ball an extraordinary celebration of purpose, progress, and impact. Udonis Haslem Juliet Roulhac, and Tracey Robertson Carter!!

Together Each Achieves More.

We were proud to sponsor and attend the 8th Annual Behind the Gavel: Honoring Our Broward County Hispanic Judges, presen...
10/06/2026

We were proud to sponsor and attend the 8th Annual Behind the Gavel: Honoring Our Broward County Hispanic Judges, presented in celebration of Hispanic Heritage Month. ⚖️

Hosted by the Broward County Bar Association, Broward County Hispanic Bar Association, Cuban American Bar Association Cuban American Bar Association, Peruvian American Bar Association, and Nicaraguan Bar Association, this special evening brought together members of South Florida’s legal community to recognize and celebrate the distinguished Hispanic judges serving Broward County.

It was an honor to join fellow attorneys, judges, and community leaders in celebrating the achievements, service, and lasting contributions of Hispanic members of our judiciary. We are grateful for the opportunity to support events that promote representation, leadership, diversity, and connection within our legal community.

The event was held at the beautiful and stunning Nova Southeastern University (Shepard Broad College of Law) @nsulawcollege

Congratulations to all of the judges recognized and to the organizations behind another successful Behind the Gavel celebration!

Address

290 NW 165th Street, Penthouse 6
Miami, FL
33169

Opening Hours

Monday 9am - 5:30pm
Tuesday 9am - 5:30pm
Wednesday 9am - 5:30pm
Thursday 9am - 5:30pm
Friday 9am - 5pm

Alerts

Be the first to know and let us send you an email when The Joseph Firm, P.A. posts news and promotions. Your email address will not be used for any other purpose, and you can unsubscribe at any time.

Contact The Practice

Send a message to The Joseph Firm, P.A.:

Shortcuts

Sponsored

Share