Jeffrey Law, PA Jeffrey Law, PA 2026-08-10T01:47:29Z https://www.rsjlegal.com/feed/atom/ WordPress /wp-content/uploads/sites/1604800/2021/07/cropped-jeffrey_FAV-32x32.png On Behalf of Jeffrey Law, PA <![CDATA[What if parenting handovers are problematic?]]> https://www.rsjlegal.com/?p=47135 2026-08-10T01:47:29Z 2026-08-10T01:47:29Z Conduct them in a safe public space Perhaps your ex raises their voice at you or even threatens to become violent. In both cases, arranging to meet in a public place where there are plenty of other people around may shame them into refraining from such behavior. Examples could include the entrance to a local supermarket or the reception area of their workplace, if permitted. Many police stations also have safe exchange zones that are monitored around the clock and are well lit.

Take a friend or relative

There is sometimes safety in numbers. An ex who wants to start an argument or even one who tries to persuade you to get back together is less likely to do so if you are there with someone else - such as a parent, sibling or best friend. You just don’t want to bring someone who could make the situation even more fraught.

Have someone do the exchanges for you

Sometimes it is better to have a third party stand in for one of you. For example, your parents could take your child to the exchange instead of you. This can be helpful if you and your ex end up arguing each time, or if they use the opportunity to manipulate you or abuse you. In some cases, it is possible to have a court require someone to supervise the handovers. An ex is more likely to behave themselves if they know a court is aware that the handovers have been problematic.

Seek a modification

Finally, it is important to remember that if your ex is continually making handovers or co-parenting in general difficult, you might need to consider returning to court and asking it to modify the original agreement because the present one is proving unworkable. Learning more about your options is wise in all cases for your own benefit and that of your children.]]> On Behalf of Jeffrey Law, PA <![CDATA[Former NFL player Marcellus Wiley served with divorce papers]]> https://www.rsjlegal.com/?p=47133 2026-07-17T11:44:10Z 2026-07-17T11:44:10Z filed for divorce. The couple had been together for 12 years. The divorce proceedings come after Wiley was arrested in Florida over the Fourth of July weekend on a domestic battery charge. He was arrested in Orange County, Florida. His wife also alleged that he was financially controlling, verbally and emotionally abusive, and engaged in sexual and physical abuse. Wiley has publicly denied the allegations.

The complications of a high-profile divorce

A divorce case like this, involving a former professional athlete and a television personality, can certainly become complicated. Both partners have earned substantial income over the course of their careers, and they also have three children together, the oldest of whom is 10 years old. This is further complicated by the criminal case Wiley is now facing, of course, which can play a significant role in child custody decisions and similar issues. Since the arrest was only recently made, the couple is still a significant way from reaching a legal resolution, but these types of allegations could still affect decisions regarding custody or visitation rights. When it comes to high-profile cases involving families and significant wealth, it is absolutely critical that those involved in a divorce understand exactly what legal rights they have and what steps to take as they seek a resolution. This story helps illustrate how complicated the situation can become, but all couples in Florida need to be aware of these rights. Seeking legal guidance is a good first step in this regard.]]> On Behalf of Jeffrey Law, PA <![CDATA[How cryptocurrency complicates a high-asset Florida divorce]]> https://www.rsjlegal.com/?p=47132 2026-07-16T12:15:21Z 2026-07-16T12:15:21Z Why is cryptocurrency different from other assets? Florida courts generally treat cryptocurrency as property when dividing marital assets. However, these digital holdings might present challenges that traditional investments do not. Unlike many other assets, cryptocurrency values frequently fluctuate over a short period of time. A portfolio worth millions when the initial divorce petition starts might look very different just a few months later. This makes the timing of valuation an important issue during property division.

How can spouses divide cryptocurrency?

As cryptocurrency portfolios become more common in high-net worth divorces, the way spouses divide those assets often depends on the circumstances of the case. Some options for couples who are navigating the split might include:
  • Transferring a portion of the cryptocurrency to each spouse
  • Allowing one spouse to keep the digital asset while the other receives different marital property of comparable value
  • Selling the cryptocurrency and dividing the proceeds
Every option might have different financial consequences depending on the nature of the investment and the overall property division.

Why should taxes be a part of the discussion?

The IRS classifies cryptocurrency as property for federal tax purposes. Because of that, selling digital assets can trigger immediate capital gain taxes. If a divorce involves liquidating cryptocurrency, those taxes might affect the overall value each spouse ultimately takes home. High-asset divorces might involve more than simply identifying high-value property. They also require careful consideration of how assets are valued, divided and taxed. When cryptocurrency becomes a part of the marital property, knowing these financial issues can help a spouse make informed decisions as the property division process moves forward.]]> On Behalf of Jeffrey Law, PA <![CDATA[Protect your business and legacy during a divorce in Florida]]> https://www.rsjlegal.com/?p=47123 2026-07-06T18:55:54Z 2026-07-06T18:55:54Z Factors Florida courts look at when a business is involved Florida courts begin from a 50/50 split of marital property, but they can adjust that division based on each spouse's contributions, the length of the marriage and other relevant circumstances of the case. Courts look at when you founded the business, how you funded it and whether your spouse contributed to its growth, directly or indirectly. A business started before the marriage can still carry a marital component if its value grew through either spouse's efforts or through marital funds. Understanding how courts quantify that value is what drives the decisions that follow.

Business valuation shapes what gets divided

Before any division happens, the court needs to assign a definitive value to your business. When a court values your business, it looks at two things:
  1. What the business generates on its own, like its clients, revenue, systems and brand. That part can be divided.
  2. What you personally bring to it, like your skills, expertise and reputation. That portion is not divisible.
So if you are a doctor who built a practice, the practice itself has value that can be split. But the fact that patients come because of you — that remains yours. Knowing which part of your business falls into each category can directly affect what stays with you.

Documents and agreements that secure your ownership interest

The way you structure and document your business directly affects how courts treat it during division. Buy-sell agreements, shareholder agreements and clear records showing which funds came from you personally can all strengthen your position. Without these, courts have more room to interpret ownership in ways that may not reflect your intent.

Acting early gives you more options

A high-asset divorce involving a business is one of the more complex cases Florida courts handle. The longer you wait, the harder it becomes to fill documentation gaps, correct ownership records or put protective agreements in place. The earlier you work with an attorney who handles complex and high-asset divorce in Florida, the clearer your picture of what steps can still help protect your business and legacy.  ]]> On Behalf of Jeffrey Law, PA <![CDATA[Increased spending before divorce is a red flag]]> https://www.rsjlegal.com/?p=47126 2026-06-30T09:10:02Z 2026-06-30T09:10:02Z If you are going through the divorce process, you and your spouse will likely need to make financial disclosures. If the court is assisting with asset division, it needs to know what assets you own jointly. During this process, it is important to gather documentation and look at any evidence, especially focusing on spending changes. If your spouse has substantially increased their spending during the divorce, or even in the months prior to the divorce, it can be a red flag.

Why is this an issue?

In some cases, people who know they are going to get divorced attempt to dissipate marital assets. They are just trying to spend those assets down. They do this in an effort to keep them out of property division. In some ways, this is similar to hiding assets. It is also a red flag if your spouse gives money away, for example, especially to a family member. They may just be trying to hide the money and then get it back from that family member after the divorce has concluded. But you also want to look for increased spending, especially if your spouse is a high earner. They may be intentionally spending the money on themselves so that they do not have to divide it with you, planning to earn that money back after the divorce has been finalized. But since the money they are spending is a marital asset that you also own, there may be steps you can take to protect the funds that should have rightfully been yours. This is certainly a complex financial issue that can change the dynamics of a high-asset divorce. Be sure you know exactly what legal options you have.  ]]> On Behalf of Jeffrey Law, PA <![CDATA[Can divorce derail your retirement plans?]]> https://www.rsjlegal.com/?p=47124 2026-06-18T16:35:39Z 2026-06-18T16:35:39Z For many people, retirement is the reward after decades of hard work and careful financial planning. Whether your goal is spending more time with family, traveling or simply enjoying each day, a divorce can significantly impact the retirement that you envisioned. Divorce doesn’t necessarily mean your retirement plans are ruined, but it can affect your finances. Knowing what to expect can help you plan for your next chapter in life.

Protecting your financial future

Most people underestimate the long-term financial impact of divorce. Going from a two-income household to supporting yourself on a single income can make it more difficult to save for retirement, especially when you have fewer working years left to rebuild your savings. At the same time, dividing retirement assets reduces the amount available to fund your post-retirement lifestyle. As a result, some people may need to stay in the workforce longer than they expected or adjust their retirement goals.  The family home is a significant asset, both financially and emotionally. Keeping the home may be appealing, but it may not fit into your long-term goals. With the family home comes substantial expenses, including property taxes, insurance premiums and maintenance costs.  Before making any decisions about property division, carefully evaluate how each asset fits into your overall retirement strategy. It’s also important that retirement assets are handled correctly during the divorce process to avoid unnecessary taxes and penalties. For example, certain retirement accounts, such as a 401(k) or a pension plan, require a Qualified Domestic Relations Order (QDRO) to allow retirement benefits to be transferred between spouses. Social security may provide additional financial support. Some divorced individuals may be eligible to receive Social Security benefits based on their former spouse’s earnings record. Generally, eligibility depends on factors such as the length of the marriage, your age and your marital status after the divorce. Such options can help you maximize your retirement income and provide you with greater financial stability later in life. Although divorce can disrupt your retirement plans, it doesn’t have to derail them. By working with a legal professional, you can make informed financial decisions and preserve your future security.  ]]> On Behalf of Jeffrey Law, PA <![CDATA[How to help your child cope with your divorce in Florida]]> https://www.rsjlegal.com/?p=47121 2026-06-02T12:20:21Z 2026-06-02T12:20:21Z Maintain stability and routine Children often feel stressed during a divorce. Maintaining familiar routines around mealtimes, bedtimes and daily activities helps your child feel grounded when so much else feels uncertain. Even small traditions like weekend pancakes or bedtime stories can offer reassuring continuity. Try to keep your child connected to their regular activities, friendships and community involvement. Sports teams, music lessons, school clubs and social connections can help your child feel more normal during this time. These activities also give children healthy outlets for processing their emotions.

Work with your spouse

If you can, work with your ex-spouse to keep rules similar in both homes. While you cannot control everything that happens at the other parent's home, working together on basic guidelines can reduce confusion and stress for your child. Florida courts generally prioritize the best interests of the child when determining time-sharing arrangements. Judges often look at whether each parent can provide a stable home and support the child's relationship with the other parent. Demonstrating your commitment to consistency and cooperation can positively influence these determinations.

Communicate with your child openly and honestly

Children need age-appropriate information about what is happening in their family. Keeping them completely in the dark often leads to confusion, anxiety and imagination that creates scenarios worse than reality. Explain the divorce in a way your child can understand based on their age. If you can, reassure your child that the divorce is not their fault. Children frequently blame themselves for their parents' separation. Making it clear that the divorce was a decision made by adults may help them avoid feeling responsible. Try to encourage your child to express their feelings and ask questions. Create safe spaces for these conversations where they feel heard and validated. Avoid speaking negatively about your former spouse in front of your child, as this puts them in an uncomfortable position of feeling they must choose sides.

Consider professional support

Watch for signs that your child might benefit from talking to a counselor or therapist. Changes in behavior, grades, sleep or friendships may mean your child needs extra help. Professional guidance can give children tools for processing complex emotions in healthy ways. Support groups designed for children of divorce exist in many Florida communities. These groups allow children to connect with peers experiencing similar situations, helping them feel less isolated. Sharing experiences with others who understand can be incredibly validating.

Your actions can protect your child after your divorce

Helping your child cope with your separation requires patience, consistency and open communication throughout the transition. By offering honest reassurance, maintaining stable routines and seeking support when needed, you can help your child feel secure and understood. Being there for your child can help them feel safe and adjust to life after the divorce.]]> On Behalf of Jeffrey Law, PA <![CDATA[How gray divorce may affect Medicare eligibility]]> https://www.rsjlegal.com/?p=47120 2026-05-30T14:32:22Z 2026-05-30T14:32:22Z Divorced spouses can still qualify The good news for those feeling anxious about losing Medicare eligibility after a divorce is that the government acknowledges long-term marriage and divorce in Medicare policy. If an older adult is only eligible for Medicare because of their spouse’s employment, they may still be able to qualify for Medicare coverage after they divorce. Provided that the marriage lasted for at least 10 years, a dependent spouse who is not eligible for Medicare coverage on their own could qualify based on the employment history of their spouse. Their eligibility for benefits does not diminish the coverage rights of their spouse. Their eligibility may change if they remarry and become eligible based on the employment history of a new spouse. Learning more about retirement benefits and divorce can help people avoid scenarios in which they feel trapped in miserable marriages because they previously made career sacrifices for their family. Those concerned about retirement resources and benefits they want to discuss their divorce plans with an attorney before they make any major legal moves accordingly.]]> On Behalf of Jeffrey Law, PA <![CDATA[The factors that define a child’s best interests]]> https://www.rsjlegal.com/?p=47118 2026-05-22T20:59:28Z 2026-05-22T20:59:28Z In some cases, couples who are getting divorced simply agree to shared custody from the outset. They want to split both their physical and legal custody rights, and they will both still be involved with the child. But in other cases, couples do not agree. Maybe one person would be happy with shared custody, but the other wants sole custody. The court then needs to make a ruling, and it uses the standard of focusing on the child’s best interests. Below are some of the factors that can help the court make this determination.

Ability to provide care

To begin with, the court will look at the parents’ ability to provide necessary care to the child. This could include factors like their:
  • Physical health
  • Mental health
  • Financial stability
  • Living situation
  • Prior relationship with the child
  • Roles during the marriage, such as if one person was the primary caregiver
The court does often prefer to have both parents involved, but they have to demonstrate that they can properly care for the child.

Outside influences

At the same time, the court will look at a variety of outside factors that could play a role in the child’s life moving forward, such as:
  • The child’s own wishes, depending on their age
  • The child’s health, especially if they have special needs
  • Cultural and religious considerations
  • Where the child goes to school
  • The roles of extended family members
Finally, the court will look for any negative factors, such as evidence of substance abuse, child abuse, excessive discipline or domestic violence.

Addressing custody rights

This helps show the types of factors the court will examine when making a custody ruling. Parents who are going through a divorce must be aware of all of their legal rights as they navigate this process.]]> On Behalf of Jeffrey Law, PA <![CDATA[Understanding durational alimony in Florida]]> https://www.rsjlegal.com/?p=47115 2026-05-08T13:48:16Z 2026-05-08T13:48:16Z Who qualifies for durational alimony? The court must first determine your actual financial need for support and your ex-spouse’s ability to pay. Once the court establishes these, it can award durational alimony for a marriage of short, moderate, or long duration. However, durational alimony may not be awarded for a marriage that lasted less than three years. The court calculates durational alimony based on marriage length, from the wedding date to the divorce filing date. It can modify or extend these limits, but only under exceptional circumstances, proven by clear and convincing evidence. The court also takes a close look at your situation before deciding. In addition to marriage length, it may consider these circumstances:
  • If you have a serious physical or mental disability
  • If you are caring for a shared child with disabilities
  • If your age, job skills, or finances make self-support hard
Caregiving extensions may end when the child no longer needs care or passes away.

Are there financial caps for durational alimony?

The alimony amount cannot go above what you actually need to get by, or 35% of the gap between both spouses' net incomes, whichever is less. Net income excludes spousal support paid under a court order between the parties. The person paying cannot end up with significantly less net income than the person receiving support. If the court allows this for some reason, it has to be explained in writing.

Can one modify or end the alimony?

You or your ex-spouse can ask the court to change the alimony amount if your situation has significantly changed. However, changing the length of payments may require exceptional circumstances. Alimony usually ends if either spouse dies, the recipient remarries, or the recipient enters a supportive relationship with another person. A payor may move to end or reduce alimony when they retire. Under the 2023 reform, they must prove that their retirement is 'reasonable' and made in good faith. The law defines 'normal retirement age' as the age at which a person is eligible for full Social Security benefits. Their specific profession may also define the customary retirement age. While the court will weigh both spouses' health and the impact on the recipient, the new law provides a clearer pathway for alimony to end upon retirement. Divorce brings enough uncertainty on its own. Knowing what financial support you may be entitled to can make a real difference as you plan.]]>