Author Archives: Jay Butchko
Is an Uncontested Divorce in Your Best Interests?
There are many ways to dissolve a marriage in Florida. Those can include mediation, collaborative divorce, and litigation. However, the simplest and fastest way to dissolve a marriage is by filing an uncontested divorce. An uncontested divorce is a proceeding in which both parties draft their divorce decree and mutually agree on all of… Read More »
Obtaining a Domestic Violence Injunction in Tampa, FL
Under Florida law, domestic violence is considered any assault or battery on any individual within their household. This includes: Assault and aggravated assault Battery and aggravated battery Sexual assault and sexual battery Stalking and aggravated stalking Kidnapping False imprisonment It can also include any criminal offense that results in injury to one party. In… Read More »
What You Need to Know About Mandatory Disclosure During Your Florida Divorce
Mandatory disclosure occurs during the discovery process of a divorce. Each party is required to present the other party with their financial records. Parties cannot lie or hide information from the other party during a divorce. This can cause severe consequences for the party attempting to hide assets. In this article, the Tampa divorce… Read More »
Litigating After Divorce: What You Need to Know about Divorce Modifications
Your final judgment of dissolution will determine how things play out after you are divorced. But circumstances change. Issues related to your financial situation are dynamic. Children grow older and their needs change. You switch jobs. Your income changes. This can directly affect child support and alimony payments. One spouse may have to relocate…. Read More »
Child Custody Rules in Florida Level the Playing Field Between Moms and Dads
Prior to 2008, the term “custody” was often used to decide which parent would have decision-making power over the child. Today, Florida operates under a different doctrine. Prior, Florida operated under the “tender years doctrine” which favored the mother in child custody arrangements. Today, the court uses the “best interests of the child doctrine”… Read More »
The Rights of Unwed Fathers in Tampa, FL
Several new laws have been passed recently that shift the playing field for fathers. Today, unwed fathers in Florida automatically have parental rights over their children. This is a shift from the past when the Florida courts would automatically assign custody and responsibility rights to mothers. Decisions related to paternity have significant implications for… Read More »
What Are The Top 4 Most Common Reasons For Divorce?
A couple can divorce for a variety of reasons. By being aware of four of the most common reasons, it is easy to take actions that can prevent a divorce, or to affirm one’s decision to obtain a divorce. What Is A Divorce? A divorce is, in its simplest form, the legal dissolution of… Read More »
What Are The Best Ways You Can Protect Your Finances During A Florida Divorce?
A divorce can lead to a spouse’s finances being damaged. But, by being aware of the best ways one can protect their finances during a Florida divorce, it is much easier for a spouse to ensure that their finances remain strong and secure. What Are The Best Ways You Can Protect Your Financial Interests… Read More »
Should You Change Your Name After A Divorce?
A formerly-married individual can change their name after obtaining a divorce. But, just because someone can change their name after a divorce, doesn’t always mean that they should. What Is A Name Change Within The State Of Florida? A name change, within the state of Florida, is when an individual changes their first name,… Read More »
Does Adultery Serve As Grounds For Divorce In Tampa?
Many spouses choose to request a divorce due to an adulterous act committed by their spouse. Being aware of whether or not this act is grounds for divorce can, and will, assist one in obtaining a divorce. Does Adultery Serve As Grounds For Divorce In Tampa? The simple answer to this question is “Yes.”… Read More »