Legal Question in Family Law in Florida

Overturning Separation Agreement

My husband and I signed a separation agreement July 2005. At that time our corp. attorney along with our accountant drew up the agreement. At that time I was still drinking and seeing my therapist. I was in no mental condition to sign anything(looking back at it). We were married for 25 years and in business together. We reside in Florida and it was filed there. Still not divorced. I was wondering if the agreement that was filed could be overturned. I have been sober now and am not afraid of him anymore. I trusted people that have since cast me aside.


Asked on 7/25/07, 2:10 pm

3 Answers from Attorneys

David Slater David P. Slater, Esq.

Re: Overturning Separation Agreement

You would need proof of undue duress, fraud or mental incapacity.

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Answered on 7/25/07, 6:17 pm
Scott R. Jay Law Offices of Scott R. Jay

Re: Overturning Separation Agreement

NOTE: This communication is not intended as and should not be interpreted as legal advice. Rather, it is intended solely as a general discussion of legal principles. You should not rely on or take action based on this communication without first presenting ALL relevant details to a competent attorney in your jurisdiction and then receiving the attorney's individualized advice for you. By reading the "Response" to your question or comment, you agree that the opinion expressed is not intended to, nor does it, create any attorney-client relationship, nor does it constitute legal advice to any person reviewing such information, nor will it be considered an attorney-client privileged communication. If you do not agree, then stop right here, and do not read any further.

If you could prove your lack of mental capacity or that the advisors used undue influence upon you, you may have the ability to set the agreement aside. Another argument could be that you were unrepresented and did not understand the true meaning of what you signed. Also, if it can be proved that your husband did not disclose all of his assets or hid some from you, that could be grounds.

You should consult and retain a qualified domestic relations attorney in Florida to work with you in attempting to do so. This could be part of a divorce if one is initiated.

Scott R. Jay, Esq.

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Answered on 7/25/07, 10:10 pm
Tanya O'Connor Brandon Law Group, PA

Re: Overturning Separation Agreement

CONDITIONS OF REVIEW: The following RESPONSE DOES NOT CONSTITUTE LEGAL ADVICE, but merely provides a general discussion of basic legal principles. This communication is not intended as, and should not be construed as �legal advice.� It is impossible to provide a complete evaluation of your legal issue in this limited forum.

DO NOT TAKE ANY ACTION BASED ON THIS RESPONSE OTHER THAN TO PRESENT THE FACTS OF YOUR CASE TO A COMPETENT, LICENSED ATTORNEY IN YOUR JURISDICTION.

By proceeding to review the response below, you agree that the response is not intended to, nor does it create any attorney-client relationship. IF YOU DO NOT AGREE WITH OR UNDERSTAND THE FOREGOING CONDITIONS PLEASE DO NOT REVIEW THE RESPONSE PROVIDED.

The document filed in Florida may be recognized as a "Marital Settlement Agreement"(MSA) which is essentially a contract between husband and wife which sets forth the conditions of their divorce. Florida does not recognize "legal separation," but this agreement can become the terms of your divorce settlement if it is approved by a court in this jurisdiction.

MSAs are just like any other contract, and may or may not be enforceable based on their content and the conditions under which they are executed. Based on the facts you provided, sounds like your MSA might be subject to challenge based upon lack of mental capacity, undue influence or coercion.

You should consult an attorney immediately if you are served with a Petition for Dissolution of Marriage, or if you have made the decision to file one yourself.

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Answered on 7/26/07, 10:36 am


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