We have a little known system called Administrative Child Support in Florida. You need to know how this system works. It all starts with many people receiving a Notice of Commencement. If you receive a Notice of Administrative Child Support, then you have 20 days in which to notify the Department of Revenue that you … Read more
When can you seek a modification of your final judgment? This question comes up during a series of different issues. Modification means changing your final judgment, but that’s not easy. There are a few select areas where courts allow a Modification. It’s important to know when you can seek it, especially before you finish an … Read more
Putative Father’s rights changed last year when Florida’s highest court held that a putative father can file for paternity. This can be done over the objection of the wife and her Husband. Until then, a putative father had no right to file. Several cases have now been filed using this change as a basis, and … Read more
Back Child Support is something to ask for. The problem is getting it. In every initial case, Courts have the discretion to make it retroactive. Cases on this tell the courts that retro support is the norm rather than the exception. But it’s also one of the most confusing areas to handle. Back Child Support … Read more
Adult Dependent Children is an issue near to my heart. Kids are being diagnosed with autism at an alarming rate. Many others have other challenges, such as Downs Syndrome or a combination of physical and mental challenges. Most school districts today have programs for kids with special needs; however, it’s never enough. There are not … Read more
It’s officially tax season, and anyone getting a divorce should know how taxes may affect you. There are several things to consider with taxes, especially with the new Tax Cuts and Jobs Act of 2017. These include how it affects support payments, when to file jointly, and how to claim dependents. Divorce and income taxes … Read more
This month is Domestic Violence Awareness month. It’s important to recognize this issue. Domestic violence is a serious problem. According to the National Coalition Against Domestic Violence, 1 in 3 women are victims. Ten million people are abused each year by a close partner. These are staggering numbers, and it’s not acceptable. Violence at home … Read more
Contempt of court is a common method to enforce judgments. There are two types – criminal and civil. The most common form is Civil Contempt. Unlike criminal contempt, civil is used to compel someone to follow an order. The best known type involves collecting money in child support cases. A custodial parent can file … Read more
The Collaborative Law Process Act is now law, and it’s a great step for families. The Florida Legislature recently passed this new law, which gives people an alternative to litigation. A rather unique approach, Collaborative Law is based on the idea that parties work strictly to resolve things without litigation. Parties must agree to participate, … Read more
Many blended families exist today. More than ever, people are getting divorced. They often remarry and bring together their children. Often the new couple may have two households, or live in different towns. They face many challenges when trying to put their family together. When blending such a family, it’s important to know where the … Read more