Author Archives: Jay Butchko
Preparing for an Interview with the Guardian ad Litem: Guidance for Parents
When parents are involved in a custody dispute in Florida, especially one that involves serious conflict or concerns about the child’s wellbeing, the court may appoint a Guardian ad Litem (GAL) to represent the best interests of the child. For many parents, receiving notice of this appointment can bring anxiety and uncertainty. What will… Read More »
How Florida Courts Handle Parental Alienation in Custody Disputes
When parents separate or divorce, emotions often run high—especially when it comes to the wellbeing of their children. In some cases, those emotions lead to one parent attempting to undermine or damage the child’s relationship with the other parent. This behavior, known as parental alienation, is taken seriously by Florida courts because of the… Read More »
Parental Alienation vs. Estrangement: Understanding the Difference
When a child begins to pull away from a parent during or after a divorce, it can be deeply painful and confusing. The parent on the receiving end may wonder, “What happened to our bond?” or “Why won’t my child speak to me anymore?” In family law, this type of parent-child disconnection often sparks… Read More »
Can You Challenge a Guardian ad Litem’s Report in a Custody Case?
In Florida custody cases, especially those marked by significant conflict, courts often appoint a Guardian ad Litem (GAL) to represent the best interests of the child. The GAL’s role is investigative: they speak with the child, parents, teachers, therapists, and other involved individuals, observe interactions, and compile their findings and recommendations in a written… Read More »
Protecting the Parent-Child Bond in High-Conflict Divorces
Divorce is never easy, but when conflict between parents becomes intense, the fallout can deeply affect children. In high-conflict divorces, children often become caught in the middle—exposed to arguments, loyalty struggles, and emotional instability. One of the most serious risks in these cases is the deterioration of a parent-child relationship, especially when one parent… Read More »
Guardian ad Litem vs. Parenting Coordinator: What’s the Difference in Florida Family Law?
When parents in Florida find themselves in the middle of a custody dispute, the court may step in to protect the best interests of the child. In doing so, judges have several tools at their disposal to better understand the family dynamics, reduce conflict, and help make informed decisions. Two of the most commonly… Read More »
Helping Your Teen Cope with Divorce: Legal and Emotional Strategies for Parents
Divorce is never easy, but when teenagers are involved, the emotional landscape becomes even more complex. Older children, especially teens, are in a pivotal developmental phase—forming their identity, seeking independence, and preparing for adulthood. When divorce disrupts their sense of stability and security, the impact can be profound. For parents going through divorce in… Read More »
The Intersection of Mental Health and Family Law: When One Parent Needs Help
When family law cases intersect with mental health concerns, the situation becomes especially delicate. For families in Boynton Beach and across Florida, navigating custody, visitation, and parental responsibilities can already be emotionally difficult. But when one parent is facing mental health challenges, the legal process must balance the child’s safety with compassion and respect… Read More »
How Remarriage Affects Child Support and Alimony Payments in Florida
Remarriage is often a fresh start for individuals after divorce, but it can also raise important legal and financial questions—especially concerning child support and alimony obligations. Many people wonder whether getting remarried will increase, decrease, or eliminate their financial responsibilities to their former spouse or children. In Florida, child support and alimony are governed… Read More »
The Servicemembers Civil Relief Act (SCRA) and Divorce: Legal Protections for Military Personnel
Divorce is a challenging process for anyone, but when one or both spouses serve in the military, additional legal complexities arise. Active-duty service members face unique difficulties, such as deployments, frequent relocations, and the challenge of responding to legal proceedings while fulfilling their duties. Recognizing these challenges, the Servicemembers Civil Relief Act (SCRA) provides… Read More »