One of the more complicated elements of a divorce proceeding can be the division of property and debts. Because Florida is a no-fault divorce state there must be an equitable division of both. Deciding who gets or is responsible for both property and debts can be quite contentious, especially if you are not working with…
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One of the most difficult decisions many of us will make as we draw up a will is choosing an executor. In Florida this person is called a personal representative. This carries much responsibility, so the selection of your personal representative should be discussed and agreed upon ahead of time as that person will handle…
Read MoreWe are pleased to announce that our own Mary Lou Miller Wagstaff has been elected as 2020 president for the Florida Chapter of the Association of Family and Conciliation Courts (FLAFCC). Mary Lou is honored to serve Florida families and the FLAFCC in this way. The FLAFCC is an organization of judicial, legal, mental health,…
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The probate process almost always requires the assistance of a probate attorney. When someone close to you dies and leaves you as the personal representative (or executor), you will need the assistance of an attorney unless the assets that might need probate are under $75,000. Regardless of the estate value, however, it is often a good idea to…
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If you are hoping to grow your family through adoption, you may wonder whether you should work with an agency, try to find a birth mother yourself for a private adoption, or go through the foster system. No matter which route you choose, an adoption attorney will be involved in the process. Finding an attorney…
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Relative adoption is a common type of adoption. Sometimes referred to as familial adoption, a relative adoption may sometimes be the best option for a minor child. If you are considering adopting a family member, you will want to consult with an adoption attorney. Your attorney will not only be able to answer your questions,…
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One of the reasons many victims of abuse stay in an abusive relationship is because they believe their abuser will change. Another reason is due to the financial stability they have when they are with their partner. Some stay because they believe their children will be better off in a home with two parents and…
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You may think that as the victim, you do not need an attorney; however, there are many reasons you may want to hire one. Your attorney will look out for your best interests and guide you through the process whether or not you choose to press charges. When you try to go it alone, you…
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Mediation and collaboration are two alternatives to traditional divorce, which involves court negotiations between you, your former partner, and each of your attorneys. If you are looking for a less expensive, and often faster, means to divorce, you may want to consider some form of mediation or collaboration. Typically, these options only work if you…
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You may have heard the term Guardian ad Litem and wondered what it means, or you may have been assigned one for your child never having heard the term before. Basically, a Guardian ad Litem is a person who helps a child in a difficult divorce, custody situation, or other situations when a child needs…
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