Who Can Use a Supported Decision-Making Agreement in Florida
In Florida, an adult who wants help receiving information and communicating decisions may use a supported decision-making agreement while continuing to retain their own legal decision-making authority. It is especially useful for a person with a disability, including a young adult turning 18, who needs trusted support but does not need...
Navigating Alimony Modifications Under Florida’s New Guidelines
Florida’s 2023 alimony reform changed how support is awarded and modified. Permanent alimony is no longer available, and courts now focus on durational and rehabilitative support, with clearer limits on length and amount. If you are paying or receiving alimony, these updates can directly affect whether your current order can be modified.
Florida’s 50-50 Time-Sharing Presumption Explained
Florida law provides a rebuttable presumption that equal, 50-50 time-sharing is in a child’s best interests. This does not guarantee equal time in every case, but it means the court begins there and requires evidence to justify a different schedule. If you are going through a divorce or paternity case, this shift...
The New Presumption of Equal Time-Sharing in Florida
Under previous Florida law, there was no presumption of any particular child custody (time-sharing) schedule. This allowed family court judges considerably broad discretion in how to assign custody, in line with the prevailing best interests of the child standard.
However, recent statutory changes have created a rebuttable presumption of...
7 Common Estate Planning Mistakes
Estate planning mistakes often happen when documents are outdated, assets are overlooked, or decisions are made without considering how life changes over time. These missteps can lead to confusion, delays, and outcomes that do not reflect your wishes. Avoiding the most common errors helps protect your family and keeps your plan aligned...
How to Address Disputes Over Alimony Payments
Alimony disputes in Florida must be resolved through the court system, not through informal agreements or unilateral decisions. If your financial circumstances have changed or the current order no longer reflects your situation, you may seek a modification by presenting specific facts and supporting documentation.
When you are dealing...
How Florida’s New Adoption Laws Affect Prospective Parents
If you're considering adoption in Jacksonville or anywhere...
How Can I Appeal a Family Law Decision?
If you’re unhappy...
Transitioning Your Special Needs Child to Guardianship at Age 18
When a child with special needs turns 18 in Florida, parents may lose the legal right to make important decisions about healthcare, education, and finances. Establishing guardianship helps ensure your child continues to receive the protection and guidance they need into adulthood. Understanding when and how to petition for guardianship can make...
Navigating Florida’s New Managed Care Program for Special Needs
Florida has launched a new managed care program designed to improve how medical, behavioral, and long-term care services are delivered to individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD). Known as the Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities Comprehensive Managed Care (ICMC) program, it is transitioning from its initial pilot phase to a phased statewide...