Author Archives: Jay Butchko
What Are Your Options If The Other Parent Does Not Return A Child From A Custody Visit?
It can be incredibly difficult and frustrating if the other parent refuses to return a child after a custody visit. However, if you have a Custody Order or written Custody Agreement in place, there are steps you can take to remedy the situation. If the other parent refuses to return your child, or refuses… Read More »
SOME TAX-RELATED DIVORCE TIPS
These general rules are intended to alert you and provide general information. Before you sign any tax returns or take any actions with respect to your federal or state income tax returns, review your situation with your divorce lawyer and with your tax advisor. If both you and your spouse sign a joint income… Read More »
GIVING YOUR BEST TESTIMONY IN A CUSTODY CASE
It’s important that you communicate to the judge the kind of relationship you have with your children. You may be the best parent in the world, but if you can’t effectively describe this, you probably will not do as well as you desire in your case. Some witnesses verbalize better than others. If you… Read More »
Tips For Testifying In Court
Your lawyer will spend time preparing you before your day in court, and will have suggestions and advice tailored to the type of proceeding and unique facts of your case. The following are some general suggestions that will improve your appearance and testimony. Don’t ever guess when you are responding to a question, either… Read More »
DISCOVERY IN THE DIVORCE CASE
The beginning stage of the divorce proceeding is usually a “discovery” period, during which both sides collect information necessary for settlement discussions and/or trial. Discovery is accomplished through interrogatories, depositions, and requests for documents. Discovery refers to both parties’ right and responsibility to gather and disclose information — primarily financial — to the other… Read More »
SUPPORT AND CUSTODY MATTERS
In Pennsylvania, actions for support and custody usually occur as separate and distinct proceedings. In fact, these actions may each be heard by a different decision maker. Local rules governing these procedures vary from county to county. Support. Contested support proceedings usually begin with a conference before a Domestic Relations Officer. The conference is… Read More »
THE 3000 FOOT VIEW OF YOUR DIVORCE CASE
Once your lawyer has been retained, he or she will begin work on your family law problem. Alternative dispute resolutions, such as mediation, are options you may want to talk about, as well as whether or when to file for divorce. Lawsuits proceed in different ways. Here are some examples to help you discuss… Read More »
PREPARING FOR YOUR INITIAL DIVORCE CONSULTATION
If you are like many people who have never before used the services of a lawyer, your first visit to the lawyer’s office may generate some anxiety for you. This anxiety may be heightened if the visit is to discuss your impending separation or divorce. For this reason, it would be helpful for both… Read More »
IS YOUR DIVORCE LAWYER TOUGH ENOUGH?
Some people think that lawyers must refuse to cooperate with opposing counsel in order to be tough — for example, not consenting to mutually convenient dates for meetings, depositions, etc., and negotiating without compromise on contested issues. This notion is sadly misguided. The time to fight may be during tough negotiations or in court…. Read More »
WHY DIVORCE LAWYERS RECOMMEND THERAPISTS
Divorce cases are emotionally charged, so your lawyer may encourage you to seek counseling before or during the process. Counseling can help you reduce the pain, accept the marriage’s end, learn new coping skills, and pick up the pieces of your life and go on. Don’t wait for your spouse to agree to participate…. Read More »
