Category Archives: Family Law
When Biology Isn’t Enough: Contested Paternity in Florida Case Law
In family law cases in Florida, the determination of paternity is not always based on a simple DNA test. In these cases, the law must be concerned foremost with the stability of the child. In this article, we’re going to discuss a contested paternity case in Florida that exemplifies how family court judges reach… Read More »
Uneven Division of Marital Assets in Florida Divorce: Understanding Equitable Distribution
In Florida divorces, the law provides for a distribution of assets and debts that is known as “equitable distribution.” Even though the law provides for an unequal distribution of assets and debts in a divorce, the starting presumption is that those assets and debts should be divided evenly. When a judge decides to deviate… Read More »
Contested Child Custody in Florida: What Case Law Teaches Us About Modifying Parenting Plans
Child custody is one of the most contentious issues in Florida family law. When parents are not able to agree on a parenting plan or timesharing schedule, the court is required to make a determination as to what arrangement would be in the best interests of the child. Once a custody determination is made,… Read More »
Understanding Judicial Discretion in Florida Divorce
Few cases are as important to Florida family law as the one we’re about to review. In this significant Florida Supreme Court ruling, the standards for dealing with spousal support and the division of marital property were developed. If you’re involved in a divorce in Florida, it’s crucial to understand the significance of this… Read More »
Understanding Relocation Disputes in Florida
Child relocation disputes are some of the toughest legal matters that Florida family law courts face. Whenever a parent proposes a relocation with their child to another state, the court needs to ensure that the right balance between the rights of the parents and those of the child are achieved. An important ruling in… Read More »
Unequal Distribution of Marital Assets in Florida
In most cases, the Florida courts divide marital property in half when the hear a case. However, they don’t have to divide the marital estate in half like they do in some states. In Florida, one or the other party could be favored with a greater share of the marital estate. This depends on… Read More »
How Florida’s Parental Rights in Education Laws Can Affect Custody and Parenting Plans
When it comes to divorces or custody battles in the State of Florida, the courts primarily focus on time-sharing arrangements, decision-making, and child support. What many parents don’t know is that modifications within our state’s education laws can impact the parent-child relationship. Florida’s Parental Rights in Education laws likewise reflect the rights associated with… Read More »
What Happens When You’re Served With Family Law Papers in Florida
Being handed legal paperwork can be disturbing. It can get even more distressing if it’s for divorce, custody, or support-related issues. The truth is, being served simply acknowledges the filing of legal action and gives you the opportunity to respond. This is the way in which Florida courts inform you of the filing of… Read More »
Contested Prenuptial Agreements in Florida: What Florida Courts Look For
Prenuptial agreements are often used in Florida to establish rights and obligations in case of a divorce. While these agreements are generally upheld, they are reviewed with great scrutiny by the Florida courts when one party contests them. A case from Florida’s Second District Court of Appeals shows how issues of financial disclosure and… Read More »
Attorney’s Fees in Florida Divorce Cases: Can I Be Forced to Pay My Spouse’s Legal Fees?
Attorney fees are often one of the largest issues of contention in Florida divorce cases. Chapter 61 of the Florida Statutes gives the courts the ability to order one spouse to pay some or all of the other spouse’s legal fees to make sure that both parties have relatively equal access to representation. One… Read More »