Happy Marriage!

This week's article isn't about the usual Orlando family law problems we discuss like divorce, or child support, or any other unfortunate legal problem.  It's a series of tips on how to never have to deal with any of those issues.  This week's article reminds us all of what's truly important and what our priorities should be.   After all, there's more to family law than the bad things...if you need an Orlando lawyer to draft a will or help with step-parent adoption, by all means, let me know!   Enjoy this little breath of fresh air!

http://www.huffingtonpost.co.uk/mobileweb/2012/04/27/marriage-secrets_n_1459770.html

Florida does not recognize gay marriage. That being said, if you are in a cohabitation scenario of any kind you may be able to litigate the contractual relationship that may have arisen while living together.  Whether the agreement was written or oral, commonly this kind of action is referred to as palimony. If you are in a long term relationship in which you cohabitate with someone of the same or opposite sex, you may want to consider having an attorney drafting a cohabitation agreement for you to sign with your significant other.  Family law attorneys are familiar with these types of agreements and understand the best ways to protect the rights of everyone involved. 

http://www.cnn.com/2012/05/09/politics/north-carolina-marriage/index.html?iref=storysearch

Orlando Family Law May Change with Amendment 6

Orlando family law may be changing--stay informed!  Amendment 6 is a proposed new law that, if passed, will change parents' rights to consent to medical procedures on children. It is important to know what your rights are as a parent and what the legislature is doing to change those rights. Amendment 6 is just one way in which changes in the legislature directly affect your life.  If you have questions on Amendment 6 or any other legal issues, contact an Orlando lawyer for assistance.
More info on Amendment 6:

http://articles.orlandosentinel.com/2012-04-27/opinion/os-ed-abortion-amendment-pro-042712-20120426_1_parental-consent-parental-rights-parental-notification

From an Orlando lawyer and future parent, this week's article gives us a reason to check our priorities.  To all parents, married , single or divorced, it is important not only to watch what you say online but what your children are saying and doing as well. Read the following article on how to identify when/if your child is experiencing cyberbullying.  Make sure you are taking proactive steps to protect your children, especially when you are in the middle of a divorce or custody battle. Children can be the most vulnerable when things are uncertain at home. Do not forget … Judges are looking at the best interest of the child when making their rulings … being a proactive parent can help your Orlando divorce case in front of a Judge and is certainly in the best interest of your child.

http://www.pbs.org/parents/childrenandmedia/article-protecting-kids-from-cyberbullying.html

Pay Attention To Your Child's School Attendance!

If you're looking into an Orlando divorce or paternity case, read on!Do your kids hate going to school? Are they missing more and more days … read the article below regarding  a recent Father’s run in with the law as a result of unexcused absences. http://www.wdrb.com/story/17523421/louisville-man-must-answer-to-judge-for-school-absences Remember when a Judge is making a decision regarding the children in your divorce or paternity action, he or she is going to act in the children’s BEST INTEREST. Unexcused absences might not only land you in front of a criminal judge but will also negatively affect your divorce or paternity case. Stability and consistency are the most beneficial things you can offer your children when you are facing legal action.  If you have questions on how your your case might be affected by your child's school attendance, contact an Orlando family law attorney ASAP!

Divorce Lawyers Can Help With The Initial Decision

Divorce is a big decision for most and is not entered into lightly. Collecting information and being well informed are things that can make the decision easier and clearer. A free 30 minute consultation with an Orlando attorney can give you the information to make the right decision for yourself; information is power and can give you the strength to make the hard decision. Often times I also recommend my clients seek both individual and couples counseling before they make the decision to divorce. Of course, when there are children involved counseling is almost always a positive thing for the children. The courts liberally order counseling for the children especially when the parents are having a difficult time co-parenting or who engage in high conflict communication.  For an article on this topic, please see below:

http://online.wsj.com/article/SB10001424052702304023504577319623333618562.html

Orlando Child Support Considerations for Special Needs Children

In Florida child support is based on a mathematical calculation that has been spelled out in the Florida Statute.  Family issues can be very fluid and it is hard to keep to a specific calculation in every case; that is why there are exceptions which allow a deviation from the total amount of child support if there are extraordinary medical, psychological, educational or dental expenses as well as if the child has special needs.  If you have a child with special needs you understand the increased costs associated with raising your child—this is a perfect example of why these exceptions exist.  Recent studies have shown that autism diagnoses are on the rise.  The following article illustrates some of the financial issues surrounding parents with autistic (and otherwise special needs) children.  Be sure to talk to an Orlando family law attorney with any questions regarding your rights and needs when it comes to child support for your special needs child.http://money.cnn.com/2012/04/02/pf/autism/index.htm?section=money_topstories&utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+rss%2Fmoney_topstories+%28Top+Stories%29