Although same-sex marriage is still currently not recognized in the state of Florida, it appears the tides are turning. We predict same-sex marriage will be legalized in Florida very soon. Here are the current laws regarding the rights of same-sex couples in Florida: 1. Same-Sex Marriage 741.212 Marriages between persons of the same sex.— (1) Marriages between […]
Florida Child Support FAQs
January 6, 2015
Many divorced parents with children find themselves in a constant battle. He/she doesn’t parent the kids well. He/she doesn’t spend enough time with the kids. He/she doesn’t set a good example. He/she isn’t paying child support. This struggle to see eye to eye isn’t all the surprising – after all, you got divorced for a […]
Child Custody Modifications: What does a “Substantial Change in Circumstances” Mean?
January 5, 2015
In a divorce proceeding where the couple has minor children, the trial court determines the initial custody arrangement based upon the best interests of the child. To determine the child’s “best interests” the court takes into consideration a number of factors, including: (a) The demonstrated capacity and disposition of each parent to facilitate and encourage a […]
Divorce and Health Insurance
September 12, 2014
It may seem like there are a million different things to think about when you’re going through a divorce. Health insurance, as important as it is, is often an afterthought for many and can be easily overlooked. But the consequences of not taking care of your health insurance immediately can be dire. What if the […]
Important Information for Divorcing Baby Boomers
July 19, 2014
According to a February 2014 article from npr.org, Americans over 50 (known as the Baby Boomer generation) are now twice as likely to get divorced as they were 20 years ago. Sociologist Susan Brown of Bowling Green State University co-authored a study called “Gray Divorce.” According to Brown’s study, in 1990, less than 1 in 10 individuals […]
My ex took the kids and moved out of state. Can I get them back?
May 21, 2014
A common – and very often, emotional – question I receive in my Jupiter divorce practice is this: “My ex moved out of state and took the children without my permission. Is there anything I can do to get them to move back?” Yes. Florida remains the child’s “home state” for 6 months after their […]
Child Custody and Visitation – Have the Terms Changed in Florida?
May 21, 2014
Ever heard these terms? Child Custody Visitation Custodial Parent Non-Custodial Parent Permanent Residential Parent These are common terms used regarding divorcing parents and how they share time with their children. Not in Florida…not anymore, anyway. Out with the bad and in with the good, as they say. Back in 2008, Florida law eliminated the above […]
Who Can Live in the Home During the Divorce?
April 21, 2014
A very common question I receive from clients is, Who can live in the home during the divorce? The easy answer is, BOTH of you can live in the home while the divorce is pending. If one or both of you does not want to or cannot afford to move out, then you may stay […]
What is the #1 Factor in Determining Alimony?
April 9, 2014
This is a very commonly asked question. Whether you want to receive alimony, or you’re going to be the one paying it – everyone wants to know the #1 factor that goes into deciding if alimony will be awarded, and in what amount. Let’s back up for a minute and get a little background on […]
My Ex and I Live in Different Counties – Where Should We File for Divorce?
March 24, 2014
Are you contemplating filing for divorce – or do you anticipate that your spouse will? What if the two of you currently live in different counties – where should you file? This is one of my most frequently asked questions. Here’s a brief scenario to help answer it. What is the appropriate venue for dissolution […]