The debate over equal rights for same-sex couples in the United States is ongoing. While the central issue usually focused on is the right to marry, another related issue must also be addressed. As a newsworthy case in Florida demonstrates, just as gay couples are fighting for the right to...
Will Shared Parenting be New Custody Arrangement in Florida?
The issue of divorce is something that affects a huge portion of families across America. It is often a sensitive and emotionally charged topic, especially when children are involved. A recent article by Florida Today discussed the potential trend among states to favor custody arrangements in which parents share equal custody....
Lawsuit Filed in Florida over Right to Marry
The issue of same-sex marriage has been playing out in the media and in the legal arena for years. Now, a number of states are being forced to address the issue by way of hearing and ruling on lawsuits that have been filed by same-sex couples. As reported by the Miami...
What Rises to the Level of Domestic Violence?
Far too many families in Florida and throughout the country are affected by domestic violence. Recognizing the damage done by these crimes, the justice system includes a variety of tools to both protect those harmed and punish residents who commit domestic violence. But not all disagreements between family members actually...
2014: New Year, New Laws Taking Effect in Florida
Florida has added over 200 new laws to their books in the last several months. While some had gone into effect in the latter part of 2013, some will begin with the New Year in 2014. Naples News reported on a number of the new laws, and the topics they...
Fathers Impact on Children’s Lives Makes Huge Difference
Fathers are a great source of inspiration and knowledge for their children. Fatherhood teaching opportunities have traditionally been limited to fishing, hunting, camping, fixing things, and grilling dinner. Nowadays, fathers are much more involved in their children’s lives. But when divorce splits up a family, the noncustodial parent can lose...
Complexities in Child Custody Disputes in Florida
In divorce proceedings, the court is the final arbiter of child custody. The court can also be the final arbiter when non-married couples seek to establish the rights and responsibilities of each parent. Florida law prefers that both parents work together to raise a child. That is true even when...
New Bill Could Change Florida Alimony Laws
One stressful and legally complicated aspect of divorce is alimony. Many see alimony as an old-fashioned vestige of divorce. Others see it as a necessary way to help an individual who made financial sacrifices to help the family during marriage. Individuals who are facing a divorce should become familiar with...
Child Support Guidelines in Florida
In Florida, as well as many other states, child support is determined by guidelines established by the legislature. The child support guideline amount is set out in Florida Statute 61.30 which establishes the amount the Court will award, whether in an initial dissolution of marriage proceeding requesting child support or in...
Same Sex Marriage and Joint Bankruptcy Filings
The Defense of Marriage Act (DOMA), 1 U.S.C. section 7, defines a married couple as consisting only of opposite sex married couples. Generally, married couples will file joint bankruptcy petitions; a joint filing saves a filing fee and often a second attorney’s fee. The Justice Department (through the U.S. Trustee)...