Author Archives: Jay Butchko

Does It Matter Who Files for a Florida Divorce First?
Being the first spouse to file for divorce doesn’t necessarily determine the outcome of the case, but there are situations where there are strategic advantages to being the one who initiates the process. Comprehending the legal and practical implications of different divorce filing timelines can be helpful. Talk to a Port St. Lucie family… Read More »

5 Tips to Help You Decide on a Divorce Lawyer
During your separation, choosing the right divorce lawyer is one of the most important decisions you’ll make. A skilled and compassionate attorney can help protect your rights, guide you through the divorce process, and provide clarity during an emotionally challenging time. Often finding the right Port St. Lucie family law attorney requires thoughtful consideration…. Read More »

How to Talk to Young Members of the Family About a Separation
Parents who choose to separate are often worried about how to tell their kids. There are ways to discuss this life change that can help them feel supported during a time of uncertainty. Professionals can guide you through the process. Talk to an experienced Port St. Lucie family law attorney to learn more about… Read More »

Keeping a Married Name or Not
One of the many decisions you may be mulling over when separating or divorcing is whether to keep your married name or revert to a previous name. This choice is deeply personal, with a variety of practical, emotional, and legal factors to consider. A Port St. Lucie family law attorney can walk you through… Read More »

How Common Are Contempt of Court Charges in Family Law?
Contempt of court is a serious legal tool used to enforce compliance with court orders. While it is an important tool, it’s not always the first step the legal system takes. If you believe your ex-spouse should be held in contempt of court for missed payments, talk to a Port St. Lucie family law… Read More »

Why Dads and Moms Move to Establish Paternity
While it may seem like a technicality, formally establishing paternity has many advantages that support both a child’s emotional and financial stability. Whether you are a father seeking visitation time or a mother who wants to obtain genetic information, talk to a Port St. Lucie family law attorney about paternity documentation. Legal professionals are… Read More »

Stress Due to Divorce Delays
Unexpected delays can add stress to the divorce process, which is already an emotionally taxing event in a person’s life. If you are in this situation, know that when you get to the bottom of the reasons for these delays, you can take steps to get the process back on track. A Port St…. Read More »

Kinship Adoptions and Legal Support in Florida
When a child cannot remain in their parents’ care, Florida relatives may step in to provide love and stability. This is often referred to as kinship care, and in some cases, families choose to formalize the arrangement through kinship adoption. There are many reasons to explore adoption, and sometimes going through the appropriate legal… Read More »

Particular Issues for Teens When Their Parents Divorce
Not that the process is easy for children at any age, but there are unique challenges for teenagers when their parents separate. While teens may have a better grasp of the situation than younger children, they are also at a stage of life where emotional, social, and academic pressures are already high. To learn… Read More »

How a Move Can Impact Non-Custodial or Joint Custody Agreements
Carefully crafted to balance the best interests of the child with the needs and rights of both parents, custody agreements provide families with structure after a divorce. That said, life changes such as a parental relocation can complicate matters. In Florida, a move can significantly impact non-custodial and joint custody agreements. Have a conversation… Read More »