They say that truth is stranger than fiction. Reports of a contested Broward County divorce appear to support the old truism.
According to Florida newspapers, the county’s Clerk of Court Brenda D. Forman is divorcing her husband of four years — and her predecessor in her powerful political position — Howard C. Forman. She says in court documents that 71-year-old Howard appears to be a victim of dementia who needs her help. He contends that she is trying to seize control of his money.
As you know, Brenda Forman was elected last year to replace her retiring husband, though at the time she had no experience in politics or management. She had worked for Howard Forman as a clerk in the office before they married, however.
Soon after she took office, Howard Forman filed for divorce. The following day, she asked a court to appoint her as her husband’s temporary guardian.
According to a news report, Howard Forman’s attorney says Brenda Forman’s motivation is threefold: she wants to delay the divorce process, gain control of his pension ($12,000 per month) and take control of the more than $900,000 he received from the Florida Retirement System early this year.
Brenda Forman denies those allegations and says she is doing what a supportive wife does for a struggling husband: loving and caring for him.
“I still love my husband to this day,” she told a newspaper.
We do not know how these serious family law matters will be resolved.
In a Florida divorce in which significant assets and complex legal issues are involved, it is important to have at your side an experienced, composed attorney who understands the stakes and how to protect you at every step of the legal process.