Diversity in Law: Respecting the Dignity of Every Person
Diversity in Law is a reality these days.Whether this involves race, sexual orientation, religion, or gender identity, Florida is rich in diversity. And the Florida judicial system is committed to ensuring that all walks of life receive equal justice.The Standing Committee on Fairness and Diversity is a Florida Court investigation into diversity. It is guided … Read more
It’s Back to School Time in North Central Florida!
It’s Back to School time here in North Central Florida. Meet the teacher is here, and schools are getting ready to start. In Marion County, classes resume on Wednesday, August 10th. In Alachua County, school starts on Monday, August 15th. Each school provides a list of what materials your students will need. Check their websites … Read more
What are Emergency Motions or Orders?
Emergency Motions are the court’s remedy when a situation involves immediate attention. Parties can seek emergency orders in a variety of situations. A parent may have been arrested for drug abuse or domestic violence. An emergency may also exist if the custodial parent is Baker Acted, or if there has been domestic violence. In any … Read more
Independence Day Reflections: American’s Must “Hang Together”
Independence Day brings us a chance to reflect – a chance to think about the freedom and opportunities we enjoy here in the United States. It’s hard to imagine what it was like back in 1776, when the Declaration of Independence was signed. The British Empire spanned across continents. The British Army was bigger and … Read more
Top 3 Benefits of Mediation Over Going To Court
Before you ever reach a trial, try using mediation. Mediation is one of the best tools around. It is also called Alternative Dispute Resolution. And it provides a way for people to resolve problems without risking it all in court. It is a great forum for outlining differences, and it provides a safe and secure … Read more
Wills and their Importance
Wills are an important part of everyone’s planning. They are easy to prepare. And they are simple to revise. Once made, you have outlined how your assets should be distributed. But without one, you may be leaving it to chance. Florida, like all States, has something called “intestacy” laws. These laws outline how assets are … Read more
Memorial Day is for the Fallen
This Memorial Day, give thanks to those who lost their lives while serving our country. I saw a nice meme the other day from a fellow veteran which said: Memorial Day is for the fallen. Please don’t thank me this weekend.” That’s true. Veterans get recognized on Veteran’s Day in November. Memorial Day, by contrast, … Read more
Florida Juvenile Dependency Cases
A large part of family law involves Juvenile Dependency cases. These cases generally arise when the State has to intervene with a family. There are many different reasons why this may occur. But the general basis for these cases is that the parents have abused, abandoned, or neglected their kids. Parents are often given a … Read more
Florida Relocation and Child Custody Considerations
Looking to move? We’re a mobile society. People get new jobs and life changes. And often part of that is a need to relocate to another town or State. But what does it take? And what does the law say? If you’re thinking of moving, it’s important to know what is required. Years ago, … Read more
Estate & Trust Planning
Estate & Trust planning is an important thing to consider. There are different types of trusts, and each serves a unique purpose. It’s important to know the differences. The most commonly used trust in estate & trust planning is a Revocable Trust. This type allows a person to create a trust, with the … Read more
Modifications in Family Law Cases
Life changes, and that’s why people often end up seeking modifications to their family law case. So where do you start? The first step is determining why you seek the change. Modifications in family law cases are common, but can be tough to prove. Generally, courts cannot change a final judgment once it is entered. … Read more
Expanded School Choice Law in Florida
School Choice is here to stay. Governor Rick Scott signed a new bill last week which allows parents to pick any public school in Florida, including charter schools. This new law allows parents to bypass traditional county boundaries and school districts, and pick any public school they think best suits their child. This includes picking … Read more