lawyer Archives - Wagstaff and Pitelis, P.A.

Mediation Myths

If you are hesitant about utilizing mediation for your divorce in Pinellas County, make sure something you have heard that is steering you away from mediation is not a myth. We know that some people do not have success utilizing mediation for their divorce, but for many, it is a great option. Myth #1 –…

Legal Rights and Responsibilities of Unmarried Fathers in Florida

When a woman and man are married and a child is born, the state assumes that he is the father. However, when a woman has a child out of wedlock, there is no presumption of fatherhood. In many cases, the woman names the father on the birth certificate giving the father the rights he is…

The Role of a Guardian Ad Litem in Florida

Although many people think that a guardian ad litem in Florida is only used in a custody case during a divorce, that’s not always the case. The role and purpose of a guardian ad litem (GAL) is to advocate for a child’s best interest in any court proceeding. Not, as many people believe, the child’s…

Can a Divorce Decree Be Amended or Changed?

During the divorce process you likely asked for some things that you did not get. Compromise is often part of a divorce. However, there are cases where the marital settlement agreement was based on partially inaccurate information. Or, worse yet, fraudulent information. Oftentimes, circumstances of one party changes. All of these are valid reasons for…

Choosing the Right Divorce Attorney

Even with an amicable divorce, you need the right divorce attorney. Finding the right one takes a little research and, in most cases, an interview with the person who will have a great deal of insight to your personal life. So, how do people find the right attorney for their divorce? We have a few…

How Domestic Violence/Abuse is Relevant in Your Divorce

October is Domestic Violence Awareness month. As a divorce attorney, we are saddened by how many times an individual discloses that they suffer from domestic violence or abuse. No one deserves to be abused. Not you and not your children. Although many people think of domestic abuse only as domestic violence where one party physically…

Frequently Asked Questions About Divorce Through Mediation

Florida is a no-fault divorce state. It is also one of the few states that requires you to at least try mediation before appearing before a judge. For couples who can communicate amicably, mediation is an increasingly common means to a divorce in Clearwater. However, because it is not the traditional way to divorce, it…

Understanding Estate Planning

To many, estate planning seems too complicated so they continue to put it off. However, it is too important a task not to give it your attention. By working with a family law firm who specialize in estate planning in Largo, Florida or in your state, the process can be made easier. We understand that…

3 Reasons to Talk to a Family Law Attorney if You Have Kids

If you are a parent, it is never too early to connect with a good family law attorney you can trust. Having a great marriage and well-raised kids does not mean that you will not need legal assistance at some point. Wagstaff Law Office, P.A. can help you with such matters. Here are three civil…

Hiring the Right Divorce Lawyer

Today, divorce is far from uncommon in the United States. According to the most recent data from the American Psychological Association, an estimated 40 to 50 percent of married couples in the country end up legally separating. Regardless of the reason for terminating your marriage, it is crucial to make sure you are prepared for…