Blog - Pensacola Florida Family Law Mediation

Why you need a will and what it should include

Christine Sue Cook March 18, 2022

Many people do not take the time to create a will, thinking they can put off doing so until they accumulate more assets. However, most adults should consider making a will. This essential document has numerous benefits and should include various provisions. What Are the Requirements for a Valid Will?…

Is a home study necessary before a Florida stepparent adoption?

Christine Sue Cook March 15, 2022

When you have a relationship with a stepchild in Florida, you may decide to try to make your parent-child relationship official through stepparent adoption. However, the process involved in adopting a child in Florida varies quite a bit based on whether you are adopting someone outside of your family or…

What are the types of powers of attorney?

Christine Sue Cook February 25, 2022

A power of attorney gives another person the right to make decisions for you. You can choose from different types of powers of attorney depending on your needs or intentions. The Florida Bar explains the type of power of attorney you choose will impact the permissions you give to the…

Three tips to handle your marital home in divorce

Christine Sue Cook February 14, 2022

You and your spouse have lived together in a single residence for years. Now that you are ending your marriage, the time has come to figure out what to do with your marital home. Whether you want to keep your marital house or not, you should have an idea of…

What is intestate succession?

Christine Sue Cook February 4, 2022

When you make out a will, you describe what you want to happen to your property and assets after you die. Your surviving relatives, your executor and the court all have a responsibility to respect your wishes and fulfill them to the extent possible. If you die without a will,…

Navigating stepparent adoption

Christine Sue Cook January 24, 2022

The definition of family is constantly evolving, but the law does not always keep pace. Navigating the legal nuances of stepparent adoption requires an understanding of the associated procedures. Stepparent adoption can be simple in situations where one biological parent has died or is otherwise absent, but if the biological…

What are signs of parental alienation after a divorce?

Christine Sue Cook January 19, 2022

An intense and stressful divorce can leave you, your ex-spouse and your children feeling overwhelmed at everything that happened. Even after this rough time, you still may notice subtle signs of manipulation and alienation from your ex-spouse toward your children. Knowing how parental alienation works and how it can hurt…

What may I do with a will other than leave property to heirs?

Christine Sue Cook January 8, 2022

A will gives you the ability to name a trusted executor or personal representative to distribute your property after you die. By following your will’s instructions, the probate court oversees transferring assets to specified individuals. As noted by the Tampa Bay Times, you may also use your will to appoint…

Situations that bode well for a stepchild adoption

Christine Sue Cook December 31, 2021

Becoming a stepparent through adoption involves many factors—personal, legal, financial—and includes unique circumstances in every situation. Sometimes, though, your circumstances make it clear that becoming a stepparent improves many aspects of your family. While this decision remains a difficult one, the right situation allows you to proceed on that path…

Two power of attorney documents handle two vital issues

Christine Sue Cook December 30, 2021

A power of attorney authorizes a trusted agent to communicate on behalf of an ill or otherwise vulnerable individual. Two distinct types of legal documents offer protection. One may prevent medical mistreatment. The other could help avoid financial exploitation. As noted by Cancer.org, an advance directive provides instructions that help…

Pensacola, Florida Family Law Blog