Author Archives: Jay Butchko
I Have A Living Trust: Do I Need A Florida Durable Power Of Attorney?
Like many people who executed a living trust as part of their Florida estate plan, you were probably attracted to the numerous benefits. Privacy, avoiding probate, asset protection, and providing rules on distributions to beneficiaries are just a few of the reasons individuals opt for a revocable trust. However, Florida law also empowers a… Read More »
Four Steps To Getting Child Custody In Florida
While issues related to minor children are a focal point in any Florida divorce, there are circumstances under which someone may seek custody outside of divorce proceedings. You might want an arrangement in place prior to filing for divorce, and custody will be an issue for co-parents who are separating but not divorcing. Plus,… Read More »
What Is The Difference Between A Florida Advance Directive And Living Will?
If you have begun the estate planning conversation and are learning about your options, you have probably come to the realization that a will alone is not enough. A well-crafted estate plan also includes arrangements for incapacity, since decisions regarding your medical care and well-being are still essential even when you cannot make them…. Read More »
Steps For Modifying Alimony In Florida
Whenever a Florida divorce court awards alimony, whether by agreement or after a contested hearing, the arrangement may still be subject to modification and/or termination. The status quo that existed on the date of your divorce will definitely change over time, and spousal support from the final divorce decree may no longer be workable…. Read More »
Technology When Facing Domestic Violence Injunctions – What You Do Not Know Can Hurt You
Floridians rely on a vast array of technology and innovations designed to make life easier, so you probably have multiple devices for use at home, in your car, and even in your back pocket. Statistics indicate that Americans are more connected than ever: Cell phone ownership stands at 97 percent, while around three-quarters of… Read More »
Statistics On The Benefits Of Florida Collaborative Divorce
Despite what you might think about divorce, , the truth is that more couples are able to resolve their issues through compromise as compared to litigation. Even when some disputes remain, the parties often turn to collaborative divorce as a structured approach to resolving them. As described by the International Academy of Collaborative Professionals… Read More »
How Much Does A Florida Probate Lawyer Cost?
If someone close to you recently passed away, you may already be aware that there will be tasks involved with wrapping up his or her final affairs. Regardless of whether the decedent had a will, Florida probate laws impose numerous legal requirements for the personal representative. If you are in a position to administer… Read More »
How To Prepare For Florida Divorce Mediation
Barring domestic violence or other circumstances that would make it inappropriate, almost every Florida divorce case will go through mediation to resolve outstanding disputes between the parties before they can ever schedule a court appearance. Even parties who can generally agree on property, alimony, and children might need assistance defining the specifics. Mediation is… Read More »
FAQs About Spendthrift Trusts In Florida Estate Planning
Many people assume that trusts are a Florida estate planning tool reserved for the wealthy, and it is true that high net worth individuals have many reasons to consider making such an arrangement. However, if you have concerns about protecting your legacy, one particular type of trust may be an option to consider: A… Read More »
Property Division Checklist For Florida Divorce Cases
When considering how to divvy up assets in a Florida divorce case, many couples focus only on the big ticket items. It can be easy to overlook other property and items that you may have acquired over the course of your marriage; many couples also fail to address the debts and legal liabilities they… Read More »
