Author Archives: Jay Butchko
What Are the Steps in a Florida Stepparent Adoption?
A stepparent adoption is a blessing for the entire family. When a stepparent adopts their stepchild, they have the full legal rights and responsibilities to the child just as biological parents. There are many steps involved in the stepparent adoption process, and it is important to have legal help when going through them. Below,… Read More »
What Should I Do If My Spouse is Hiding Assets in Florida?
Property division is one of the most contentious terms in any divorce case. In Florida, all marital property is divided fairly, which does not always mean equally. Marital property refers to any assets or liabilities accumulated during the marriage by one or both spouses. Some spouses are so intent on keeping certain property that… Read More »
How to Enforce a Child Custody or Support Order in Florida
Once a divorce is finalized, a family law judge in Florida issues orders pertaining to the terms involved in the case. Two of the most contentious terms in any divorce case involving children are those regarding child custody and child support. There are many reasons parents violate these orders but regardless of what those… Read More »
Do Fathers Have the Same Rights as Mothers in Florida Custody Cases?
If you are a father and are going through a child custody or paternity case, you may wonder if you have any rights during the proceedings. The concern is natural. Historically, the family law courts in Florida did favor women in custody hearings. Fortunately, that is no longer the case and today, fathers have… Read More »
What are the Steps in a Florida Paternity Action?
When two people are married and have a child in Florida, the courts presume that the man is the biological father. When two unwed people have a child together, this same presumption does not exist. In these instances, the father or mother can establish paternity to pursue time-sharing with the child, or to obtain… Read More »
Can I Get Sole Custody of My Child in Florida?
In Florida separations and divorces, child custody is a very contentious issue. Ideally, children should never be brought into disputes between their parents but sadly, one parent or another often does involve children in their disagreements. For example, if one parent angers the other, the angered parent may prevent the other party from visiting… Read More »
What Steps Should I Expect in a Contested Divorce in Florida?
A contested divorce is one in which the two parties cannot agree to all the different terms of the case. These issues may include property division, alimony, child support and timesharing. A contested divorce is much more complicated than an uncontested case. The steps involved are outlined below by our Tampa divorce attorney. Filing… Read More »
What is Mandatory Disclosure in a Florida Divorce?
Discovery is a phase of many divorce cases in Florida and during this process, mandatory disclosure occurs. Mandatory disclosure refers to the fact that both spouses are required to give their financial records to the other side. Both parties are prohibited from lying or hiding information from each other during the divorce process. Hiding… Read More »
What Are the Steps in a Florida Uncontested Divorce?
Ending a marriage is never easy. However, divorce does not have to be the long and bitter courtroom battle many people think. If you and your spouse can agree to all of the different terms, including child custody, alimony, and property division, you can get an uncontested divorce. Below, one of our Tampa uncontested… Read More »
How Can I Find the Right Florida Family Law Attorney?
When going through any family law issue, it is critical that you seek legal advice from a Tampa family attorney. A lawyer can advise you of your legal rights and obligations throughout the process and help you receive the fair settlement you deserve. Not all attorneys are created equally, though, nor do they all… Read More »