Author Archives: Jay Butchko

The Right Of First Refusal And Co-Parenting In Alabama
All divorced couples who have minor children together must have a parenting plan. It covers all of the parenting decisions except the financial ones, including which parent has the final decision about the children’s non-emergency medical care and extracurricular activities at school. Most of the provisions of the parenting plan have to do with… Read More »

How To Stop Children’s Expenses From Being A Constant Source Of Conflict When Co-Parenting
The level of conflict and animosity involved in divorce and co-parenting varies widely from one couple to another. In some cases, you might not see your ex-spouse’s worst side until your divorce is already final and your ex is jealous of how well you and your children seem to be getting along as a… Read More »

How Does The Court Decide How Much Alimony You Get In Alabama?
Even though alimony has been a favorite source of material for standup comedians for decades, it is somewhat overhyped in the media. Most divorces do not involve alimony, and when the court awards one ex-spouse to pay alimony, it is usually only for a few years. In some cases where one spouse obviously needs… Read More »

How Does It Affect Your Family Law Case If Your Ex Does Not Live In Alabama?
These days, everyone is on the move. Even though Alabama has its share of small towns where most families have been there for generations and everyone knows everyone else, there are also plenty of reasons to move to Alabama, whether you moved here because of your military or civilian career or you followed a… Read More »

Can Different Children In The Same Family Have Different Custody Arrangements?
Divorce is hard for everyone, but it is the hardest for families with minor children. Divorce lawyers and mediators will tell you that there is no one-size-fits-all solution for co-parenting. You might know a family that has a harmonious co-parenting relationship to which you could only aspire, and you might know another family where… Read More »

If I Get A Raise Will My Child Support Increase?
The calculation of child support can be a rather involved and contentious process. If you and your co-parent are unable to mutually come to a decision, it will be left to the court to calculate the amount of child support that will need to be paid monthly by the noncustodial parent. Only the noncustodial… Read More »

What Happens To Stock Options In A Divorce?
Stock options are a form of deferred compensation. Generally, when an individual is hired by a company as an employee, they may be given stock options after a vesting period. A stock option is not a piece of property in and of itself. Rather, it is reserving the option for you to purchase a… Read More »

Can Infidelity Affect My Divorce In Alabama?
Infidelity is one of the most painful betrayals that a person can experience. If you have been cheated on by your spouse and are now considering divorce, you are not alone. A recent study shows that infidelity contributes to approximately 58% of all divorces. While it is indisputable that infidelity can cause or contribute… Read More »

Can My Child Refuse Visitation?
Child custody and visitation are difficult issues to navigate even in the best of circumstances. These decisions are emotionally charged and can be difficult to adapt to for all parties involved. Your child is not immune to the challenges that you face when going through a custody trial, and is likely to feel the… Read More »

How Are 401(k)s Split During A Divorce?
If you are considering a divorce or are in the thick of one, you may be getting into the nitty gritty when it comes to asset and debt distribution. For many, this is the most time consuming and contentious part of the divorce process, particularly if it is a high-asset divorce. Many people may… Read More »