Family Law & Divorce

Compassionate guidance for your family’s legal challenge

Family matters are deeply personal, emotional, and often life-changing. At Saxey Law PLLC, we help individuals and families throughout Okaloosa County and the surrounding Emerald Coast find fair, practical solutions to divorce, custody, support, and related family legal issues. Our approach is grounded in compassion, respect, and clear legal guidance—so you can move forward with confidence.

A Steady Hand When Life Changes

We help you move forward with clarity and confidence

Family law cases can affect every part of your life—your home, finances, children, and sense of stability. We understand the stress and uncertainty that come with these changes, and we are here to guide you through each step of the process. As a Florida Supreme Court Certified Family Law Mediator and veteran, Tom Saxey brings a calm, disciplined approach focused on problem-solving and protecting what matters most.


Whether your case involves a cooperative resolution or high-conflict litigation, we take the time to understand your goals and tailor our strategy accordingly. Our priority is protecting your rights, your children’s well-being, and your ability to make informed decisions about your future.

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Family Law Services We Offer

Practical solutions for every stage of family life

We represent clients across Okaloosa County and Northwest Florida in a wide range of family-related legal matters. Our goal is to help families reach resolution through open communication, skilled negotiation, and—when necessary—strong courtroom advocacy.

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Divorce

We guide you through contested and uncontested divorces, including property division and marital settlement agreements.

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Child Custody & Parenting Plans

We help create balanced parenting schedules that prioritize your children’s stability and best interests.

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Child Support

We assist in establishing, enforcing, or modifying support orders to ensure fair and accurate outcomes.

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Alimony

We represent clients seeking or disputing spousal support to promote equitable financial arrangements.

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Domestic Violence Injunctions

We help clients obtain or defend against protective injunctions to keep families safe.

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Mediation

As a certified family law mediator, we can often resolve disputes outside of court, saving time, cost, and emotional strain.

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Probate & Family Estate Matters

We assist families navigating probate and estate administration after the loss of a loved one, guiding personal representatives and heirs through the court process with clarity and care. Probate matters often intersect with family dynamics, and we approach them with the same sensitivity and steady guidance as other family law issues.

Florida Family Law in Plain Terms

What to expect under Florida’s family law system

Florida is a no-fault divorce state, meaning neither spouse must prove wrongdoing to dissolve a marriage. Courts focus on equitable distribution, which aims for fairness rather than punishment. In parenting cases, Florida uses the concept of time-sharing instead of traditional custody, emphasizing the importance of ongoing relationships with both parents when it is safe and appropriate.


In most family law cases, mediation is required before trial. We guide you through each phase—from initial filings and disclosures to mediation and court appearances—so you always understand what to expect and can make confident, informed choices throughout the process.

Frequently Asked Questions – Family Law

Answers to common concerns from Destin families

  • How long does a divorce take in Florida?

    The timeline depends on whether the case is contested or uncontested. An uncontested divorce can often be finalized within a month or two, while a contested divorce may take several months to over a year depending on court schedules and complexity. We strive for efficient resolution while ensuring your rights are protected and your agreements are fair.

  • How much will a family lawyer cost me?

    Family law costs vary depending on your case’s complexity, the level of conflict, and whether issues can be resolved through mediation. We discuss fees openly before starting and look for cost-effective strategies, including settlement and limited-scope representation when appropriate.

  • Can we use the same attorney in a divorce?

    No. In Florida, an attorney cannot represent both spouses in a divorce because it creates a conflict of interest. If your case is uncontested, one spouse may proceed without representation, but we can only advise and advocate for one party to ensure fairness and confidentiality.

  • Do I have to go to court for my family law case?

    Many family law cases settle out of court, especially when both sides participate in mediation. In uncontested cases, you may only need to attend a short hearing or sometimes none at all. We do everything we can to resolve your matter efficiently and without unnecessary litigation.

  • What if my spouse and I are amicable?

    If you both agree on terms, we can draft a marital settlement agreement reflecting your decisions and streamline the process through an uncontested divorce. We also help cooperative parents design parenting plans that fit their schedules while keeping children’s needs first.