Establishing paternity is an important step in many family law cases. In Florida, determining the legal father of a child has significant consequences for both parents and the child. Paternity not only defines parental rights and responsibilities but also affects financial support, custody, visitation, and inheritance. While some situations make paternity clear, others require legal action and, in many cases, genetic testing. Understanding when and why paternity testing is required ... [Read More]

When couples divorce in Florida, one of the most important and often complex issues is how to divide marital property. Florida follows the principle of equitable distribution, which requires courts to divide assets and debts fairly, though not always equally. Among the most valuable assets in many marriages are retirement accounts. Whether these accounts are 401(k)s, pensions, IRAs, or other employer-sponsored plans, dividing them fairly requires careful consideration of state ... [Read More]

Alimony is one of the most debated issues in divorce. In Florida, the purpose of alimony is to provide financial support to a spouse who may be at a disadvantage after the marriage ends. Unlike child support, which follows clearer guidelines, alimony is more complex. Courts evaluate multiple factors before deciding whether to award it, how much should be paid, and for how long. A major distinction in alimony cases ... [Read More]

Divorce is never a simple process. Along with the emotional challenges, there are legal, financial, and practical issues that need to be addressed. One of the most important decisions a person makes during this time is whether to hire a divorce attorney and how to choose the right one. Unfortunately, there are many misconceptions about what divorce lawyers do and how they help. These misunderstandings can create unnecessary hesitation, stress, ... [Read More]

Divorce can be one of the most financially challenging times in a person’s life. Beyond the emotional strain, there is the practical concern of dividing marital property fairly. Florida follows the principle of equitable distribution, which means assets and debts acquired during marriage are divided in a way the court deems fair, not necessarily equal. A serious issue that often arises is the risk of one spouse wasting or dissipating ... [Read More]

Child support orders are designed to ensure that children continue to receive financial support from both parents even after separation or divorce. In Florida, once a child support order is issued by the court, it becomes legally binding. However, many families face challenges when one parent fails to meet their obligations. This creates financial stress for the custodial parent and can negatively affect the child’s well-being. Post-judgment enforcement exists to ... [Read More]

When a child’s safety or well-being is at risk, the Florida Department of Children and Families (DCF) may become involved to investigate and address concerns. Dependency cases, where a child is considered dependent due to abuse, neglect, or abandonment, often bring significant legal and emotional challenges for families. Understanding how DCF operates, the legal process involved, and the rights of parents and children can help families navigate these situations more ... [Read More]

Step-parent adoption is a legal process that allows a step-parent to become the legal parent of a child. This type of adoption can formalize an already strong parent-child relationship, provide stability for the child, and grant the step-parent legal rights and responsibilities. In Florida, step-parent adoption has specific requirements and procedures that must be followed, and understanding these can help families navigate the process successfully. Why Families Choose Step-Parent Adoption ... [Read More]

Changing your name after getting married is a common decision, but it involves more than simply updating your social media profiles or telling friends and family. In Florida, the process is guided by legal procedures to ensure that your new name is properly recognized by government agencies, financial institutions, and other entities. Understanding the legal steps, required documentation, and potential challenges can make the process smoother and help avoid delays. ... [Read More]

Domestic violence is a serious issue that affects thousands of families in Florida every year. Victims have the right to seek legal protection through a domestic violence restraining order, also known as an injunction for protection against domestic violence. These orders can provide safety, restrict contact, and prevent further abuse. Understanding the process for obtaining a restraining order is essential to ensure that victims receive the protection they need. Understanding ... [Read More]