Author Archives: Jay Butchko
Child Custody In Florida Divorce Mediation: Tips For Parents
Even when going through divorce, parents still love their children and want what is best for them in terms of residential arrangements, education, social development, and other lifestyle-related factors. Unfortunately, parties might struggle with the details when it comes to handling child custody issues in divorce. The good news is that not all disputes… Read More »
Considerations When Cutting An Heir Out Of Your Estate Plan In Florida
Finding out that someone has been cut out of a decedent’s estate plan can be among the most jaw-dropping moments in a TV or film drama, but many people do consider their options in real life as well. Essentially, the objective is to leave out a person who would normally inherit part of the… Read More »
What To Expect When A Guardian Ad Litem Is Appointed In A Florida Family Law Case
The practice of law is a field that encompasses numerous Latin terms, and one you may encounter in a Florida family law case is guardian ad litem (GAL). Taking these terms in turn may offer some insight on the concept: A guardian is someone appointed by a court or otherwise empowered to act on… Read More »
Reasons To Consider Changing Your Florida Power Of Attorney
As you probably recall from when you originally created your Florida estate plan, it is important to review your documentation and decisions periodically. Changes in your life, family, employment, and even estate planning laws might necessitate modifications over time. However, while many people focus on their will or trust, you should also review the… Read More »
Guarantees When You Do NOT Have A Florida Advance Directive
Even if you have not yet made arrangements for incapacity as part of your estate plan, you are probably aware that the best tool for handling health care matters is an advance directive. Florida law empowers you to create a Designation of Health Care Surrogate for this purpose. Despite the fancy legal terminology, this… Read More »
Penalties For Improper Transfers Under Medicaid Rules
With the average cost of assisted living facilities ranging around $8,600 to $9,800 per month in Florida, elderly individuals and their families will probably be considering various ways to fund long-term care. Aside from using personal funds or insurance, the primary option in terms of public assistance will be Medicaid, since Medicare does not… Read More »
Next Steps After Signing Your Florida Estate Plan Documents
You will probably breathe a sigh of relief or even share a toast when you complete the Florida estate planning process and sign all the necessary documents. There is a great sense of accomplishment at finishing this very important task, and you get peace of mind knowing arrangements are in place for incapacity and… Read More »
What To Include In A Florida Divorce Settlement Agreement
Divorce can be a highly contentious legal proceeding when there is animosity and distrust between the parties, but you might be surprised to find that protracted court battles are somewhat rare. Many cases are resolved in full or in part by agreement, and Florida divorce laws actually encourage spouses to compromise on the key… Read More »
Mediation In Florida Probate Disputes: Things To Know
Florida probate is the process by which a deceased person’s final affairs are wrapped up according to the terms of a will or state intestacy laws. There is always the possibility for disputes, and litigation is one route for resolving them. However, in most cases, a judge will order the parties to participate in… Read More »
Penalties For Violating A Florida Domestic Violence Injunction
If you were recently served with paperwork regarding a domestic violence order of protection, it is understandable that you would be confused and overwhelmed. It does not seem legal that a court could issue an injunction without notice and a chance to hear your side, but that is exactly how Florida’s domestic violence injunction… Read More »
