Sep
How to Prove You Were Not Served Properly
When you’re hit with a lawsuit, one of the first things the court must do is make sure you’re notified. That’s what service of process is for—it’s the legal way of letting you know you’re being sued. But if the service wasn’t done right, it can throw the whole case into question. In Florida, this is a big deal because improper service can cause a case to be delayed or even dismissed. For example, in Kozinski v. Phillips, a $450,000 judgment was thrown out because the service wasn’t done properly. This shows that if you weren’t served the right way, the courts might not even have the authority to rule on the case. What Does 'Serve ...
Sep
A Domestic Partnership vs Civil Union in Florida
While most relationships are defined and driven by deep personal connections, it’s important to recognize that the shape of your relationship can also have legal implications. In Florida, many rights and benefits are reserved for those couples who take the step of getting married. Making medical decisions for an incapacitated partner, sharing health benefits, and even dividing assets can be quite complex matters when there isn’t a marriage certificate involved. Yet, there are situations where marriage in Florida isn’t practical. The state still doesn’t legally recognize same-sex marriages. Indeed, a lot of couples today prefer not to get married, seeing it as an outd ...
Aug
What is Temporary Custody, and How Does it Work?
Temporary custody is a legal arrangement where a court grants someone custody of a child for a specific period. This type of custody is often used to address immediate needs or situations where a child's living arrangement must be stabilized quickly. Unlike permanent custody, temporary custody does not establish long-term legal rights over the child; it’s a short-term solution intended to ensure the child's safety and well-being until a more permanent decision can be made. Temporary custody can be granted to a parent, relative, or another third party, depending on the circumstances and what the court believes is in the best interest of the child. When Is Temporary Cus ...
Aug
Paternity Fraud: What Are the Consequences?
Paternity fraud is more common than many think, especially in states like Florida, where family dynamics can be complex. At its core, paternity fraud happens when a man is wrongly identified as the biological father of a child, often leading him to provide emotional and financial support under false pretenses. This can happen through misrepresentation, mistakes on birth certificates, or deliberate deception. The consequences of paternity fraud can be far-reaching, impacting not just the supposed father but the child, the biological father, and everyone connected to them. It's a situation that brings about significant emotional, financial, and legal challenges. How Paternity Frau ...
Aug
Out-of-State Visitation Rights for Fathers in Florida
Maintaining a strong parent-child relationship is crucial, even when parents live in different states. For fathers residing out of state, understanding visitation rights is essential to ensure they remain actively involved in their children's lives. Common and Practical Arrangements Extended Visitation Periods In Florida, out-of-state fathers often receive extended visitation periods, including longer summer vacations, holidays, and school breaks. These arrangements provide substantial time for bonding and maintaining the parent-child relationship. Holiday and Summer Schedules: Visitation schedules typically alternate major holidays, such as Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year&a ...
Aug
Child Abandonment in Florida
Child abandonment is a grave issue with far-reaching legal and social consequences. In Florida, understanding the laws surrounding child abandonment is crucial for both preventing these situations and knowing how to respond appropriately. This blog post aims to provide comprehensive information on this topic, ensuring readers are well-equipped to handle questions and scenarios related to child abandonment in Florida. By shedding light on the legal definitions, consequences, and available resources, we can foster a better-informed community and help protect vulnerable children from harm. Definition of Child Abandonment in Florida Child abandonment in Florida is legally defined as the act of ...
Jul
How Can a Father Lose Visitation Rights?
When it comes to visitation rights, courts prioritize the child's well-being above all else. Various factors can lead to a father losing visitation rights, ranging from severe to moderate and even mild reasons. Visitation rights are more than just a schedule on paper; they are a vital thread in the intricate fabric of a child's life. When a father is granted the opportunity to spend time with his child, it’s a chance to nurture, guide, and build memories that will shape their future. However, this privilege is delicately balanced on the father's ability to provide a safe, supportive, and stable environment. When this balance is disrupted, the consequences can be profound, often resulti ...
John DeGirolamo has a heartfelt passion for representing the underdog in an environment that is often unjustly stacked against his clients. He’s earned the trust of tens of thousands of Tampa men seeking a divorce, working with them to create a smooth, fair outcome of their years spent as dedicated husbands & caring fathers.
How to Prove You Were Not Served Properly
A Domestic Partnership vs Civil Union in Florida
