Just in time for Father’s Day, Florida has introduced a new law (HB 775) making it easier for men with children born out of wedlock to gain legal parentage rights and responsibilities. Paternity and family law can be complicated; we’re here to break it down for you and explain the changes.
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When facing a divorce, it can be difficult to cope with the emotions and changes. McCart and Tesmer are here to help by providing some dos on don’ts on how to make the process as smooth as possible:
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We consider our pets family. Unfortunately, Florida state law says, when a couple divorces, pets are to be treated as property rather than children. Read about the process of equitable distribution and what you need to know about keeping your pet in a divorce.
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If parents cannot care for their children, they may opt for temporary custody by an extended family member. Read this article to learn the two forms of temporary child custody by an extended family member in Florida and what to expect from the process.
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The Tampa-based family law attorneys at McCart & Tesmer put together a list of what you may incur during a family law case litigation. Feel free to refer to this blog as you navigate the family law case from the initial filing through the trial.
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Everyone benefits from estate planning, regardless of age, marital status, or income. Tis the season to make resolutions. Put estate planning at the top of your list.
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Are you considering self-representation in your divorce? This blog will explain the pitfalls of a pro se divorce and why choosing the right lawyer to guide you is one of the most important decisions you can make.
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Many individuals, mostly women, struggle with the decision whether to change their last name following a divorce. Some parents want to maintain an identifiable last name with their children while the children remain in school; however, waiting to change a name after the divorce can be costly. Either way, it is up to the spouse changing his/her name to decide if and when to change their last name, even over the objection of the other spouse whose surname is being kept.
What happens when a parent keeps his/her last name at the conclusion of the divorce and later decides to change it? If the last name was not formally changed in the Final Judgment of Dissolution of Marriage (Florida’s version of a Divorce Decree), a Petition for Name Change must be filed with the Court in the county where the Petitioner resides. Additionally, finger prints must be submitted through the Florida Department of Law Enforcement unless the Petitioner is requesting a former name be restored. This process can cost $500.00 or more.
The process for changing a name after divorce can become complicated and the attorneys at McCart & Tesmer, P.A. are ready to help. For a free consultation to discuss your matter please call (813) 498-2757 or email info@McCartTesmer.com.