Author Archives: Jay Butchko
Different Types of Restraining Orders in Florida
The State of Florida has laws in place to protect the most vulnerable from harm and abuse. A restraining order, also known as an injunction or order of protection, is a legal tool individuals can utilize for protection against another individual. In this article, the Tampa domestic violence attorneys at Westchase Law, P.A. will… Read More »
What is a Bifurcated Divorce in Florida?
A bifurcated divorce is a divorce that’s split into two parts. The first part ends your marriage legally. The second part handles everything else. This includes property division, custody, alimony, and child support. This option is a good one for couples who can’t wait for the closure that finalizing their divorce brings but need… Read More »
What Happens When Your Divorce Goes To Trial in Florida?
In Florida, the majority of divorces are settled out of court through mediation. However, sometimes, you cannot avoid going to trial. Understanding the litigation process and how it works is essential to preparing your case and getting the best settlement. In this article, the Tampa, FL divorce lawyers at Westchase Law, P.A. will discuss… Read More »
How are Debts Divided in a Florida Divorce?
One question we’re often asked by clients is: what will happen to our collective debts following a divorce? Our team of experienced family law attorneys is here to help you through the process of divorce and let you know what you can expect from the proceedings. In this article, the Tampa, FL divorce attorneys… Read More »
What Happens if I Miss a Child Support Payment?
The State of Florida takes a parent’s obligation to their child very seriously. It has numerous ways to compel a parent to pay child support, with or without the parent’s willing consent. For this reason, missing a payment is much worse than missing a car payment. In this article, the Tampa, FL child support… Read More »
Common Issues That Arise From Child Relocation Cases
After divorce, a parent may choose to relocate to another area or state for numerous reasons. They may want to be closer to extended family, get a new job, or simply want to start fresh. If a parent has custody of children and wants to relocate, this can create a number of problems. This… Read More »
Who Makes Educational and Healthcare Decisions for the Child After a Divorce?
Child custody is among the most contentious issues raised in a divorce. In Florida, we use the terms parental responsibility to describe custody or legal decision-making power over the child and timesharing to describe the visitation schedule. The term “parental responsibility” describes which parent has the right to make legal decisions on the child’s… Read More »
What is an Uncontested Divorce in Florida?
If you’re considering getting a divorce in Tampa, FL, you may have run across the term “uncontested divorce.” But what exactly does it mean and how does it fit into the broader category of divorce in Florida? An uncontested divorce is when you and your soon-to-be former spouse agree on all aspects of your… Read More »
What is Parental Alienation and How Can It Impact My Child Custody Case?
Parental alienation occurs when one parent attempts to turn the child against the other parent without good reason. It’s important to understand that parental alienation is an intentional act aimed at undermining or damaging the child’s relationship with the parent. Florida is very egalitarian when it comes to child custody matters. Not only does… Read More »
50/50 Options for Co-Parenting Schedules
Recent changes to Florida law have made it easier for fathers to get shared custody and 50/50 time-sharing schedules with their children. In fact, there is a presumption under the law that shared custody and 50/50 timesharing is in the best interests of the children. When the court makes child custody decisions, it does… Read More »