What Happens To Pets In A Fort Lauderdale Divorce?
For many families, their furry friends are more than just pets. They are cherished family members. However, under Florida law, dogs, cats, and other companion animals aren’t treated like children. When couples get a divorce in Fort Lauderdale, questions about who keeps the family pet can become surprisingly emotional and legally complicated.
If you and your spouse can’t agree on pet custody, the court won’t create a “time-sharing” plan the way it would for children. Instead, pets are viewed as personal property under state law. Our experienced Fort Lauderdale divorce lawyer understands the anxiety this can create and explains how to ensure your bond with your pet is respected and protected during Broward County divorce proceedings.
How Florida Law Applies To Pets in a Broward County Divorce
Florida’s equitable distribution law (Section 61.075 of Florida Statutes) governs how marital property is divided in a Fort Lauderdale divorce. That includes pets.
Judges don’t look at who loves the animal more. They look at who has the stronger legal or financial claim. Practical factors Broward County Family Court judges consider:
- Who originally purchased or adopted the animal, and whether it happened prior to or after marriage.
- Whose name is on the registration or vet records.
- Who pays for the pet’s care, including food, medical costs, and grooming.
- Where the pet primarily resides, especially if one spouse moved out.
- Evidence of neglect or mistreatment, which could affect the outcome.
Because pets are considered property, a judge cannot legally order time-sharing. However, couples can create their own private agreements, which a lawyer can help draft and enforce.
How to Protect Your Relationship With Your Pet During a Fort Lauderdale Divorce
Pets provide a source of protection, comfort, and support. If keeping yours matters deeply in a Fort Lauderdale divorce, preparation is key. Steps you can take to strengthen your position before and during Broward County divorce proceedings include:
- Gather documentation, such as adoption forms, vet bills, microchip information, and photos that show your role in providing care.
- Prove you were financially responsible for the pet and paid for food, medication, or boarding.
- Avoid arguing over the pet in front of the judge, which may weaken your credibility.
- Consider a voluntary pet agreement that outlines who keeps the animal and visitation terms, if desired.
If the pet is your emotional-support animal, share this information with your lawyer. While courts don’t treat pets as dependents, documentation from a therapist or physician can help demonstrate the animal’s importance to your well-being.
To Protect What’s Important in Legal Proceedings, Consult Our Experienced Fort Lauderdale Divorce Lawyer
The threat of losing a furry friend due to a divorce in Fort Lauderdale can feel devastating, but you do have options. At Vanessa L. Prieto Law Offices, we understand that pets are family and can help you negotiate fair terms, draft a pet agreement, or present evidence that supports your claim to ownership.
To protect your rights and peace of mind regarding pets, call or contact our office online. Consult our experienced Fort Lauderdale divorce lawyer today.
Source:
leg.state.fl.us/Statutes/index.cfm?App_mode=Display_Statute&URL=0000-0099/0061/Sections/0061.075.html
