The start of a new year is often a time for reflection, resolutions, and fresh starts. For many Floridians, January is the moment they decide to address unresolved legal matters involving family, finances, or future planning.
In Florida family law, a new year often brings decisions about divorce, parenting plans, child support modifications, or alimony. Florida law allows parties to seek modifications when there has been a substantial change in circumstances, and the beginning of the year is a common time for parents and spouses to reassess financial and custodial arrangements.
January is also a key time for Florida probate and estate administration matters. Families may begin the process of opening probate, closing estates, resolving creditor claims, or ensuring assets are properly transferred to beneficiaries under Florida probate law. Addressing these matters early can help prevent delays and additional court involvement later in the year.
Starting the year with clear legal guidance can provide peace of mind and direction. Whether you are navigating a family law transition or managing a probate matter, informed decisions are the foundation of a successful fresh start.
By Ramona S. Chaplin, Esq.
As the long, sunny days of summer wind down, August often brings a different kind of heat—financial pressure. Between family vacations, summer camps, back-to-school shopping, and reduced hours at work, many individuals and families find themselves struggling to make ends meet by the end of the season.
If you’re seeing a spike in credit card debt, missed payments, or the emotional toll of financial stress, you’re not alone. August is a common time when people start considering whether bankruptcy might offer a fresh financial start.
Let’s talk about why, and how bankruptcy could be a practical tool—not a failure—after a tough financial summer.
💳 Why August Brings Financial Strain
- Summer Overspending
Between travel, childcare, and entertainment, it’s easy to spend beyond your means—especially if credit cards made it feel painless in the moment.
- Back-to-School Costs
New clothes, supplies, technology, and extracurricular fees can drain your bank account fast—especially if you’re still recovering from summer expenses.
- Reduced Work Hours or Seasonal Layoffs
Many clients work in industries that experience a late-summer slowdown. A reduction in income can make even basic living expenses difficult to manage.
- Rising Interest Rates
In 2025, credit card interest rates remain historically high—making it nearly impossible for many families to catch up once they fall behind.
📘 Frequently Asked Questions: Bankruptcy in Florida
Q: How do I know if bankruptcy is right for me?
If your debt feels unmanageable, you’re only making minimum payments, or you’re using credit to pay for necessities, it’s time to explore your options.
Q: Will I lose everything I own?
Not necessarily. Florida offers strong exemptions to protect your home, car, and certain personal property. Every case is different—get legal guidance before making assumptions.
Q: Can bankruptcy stop wage garnishments or collections?
Yes. Filing for bankruptcy triggers an automatic stay, which stops most collection actions, including lawsuits, wage garnishments, and harassing calls.
Q: What’s the difference between Chapter 7 and Chapter 13?
Chapter 7 is a faster discharge of qualifying debts for those who meet income limits. Chapter 13 sets up a 3–5 year repayment plan and can help save a home from foreclosure. I can help determine which fits your situation.
Q: Will filing ruin my credit forever?
While bankruptcy will impact your credit in the short term, many clients see improvement within 1–2 years, especially when they use the opportunity to rebuild wisely.
🛑 You Deserve a Reset, Not Regret
It’s easy to feel ashamed about money problems—but financial stress doesn’t define your worth. Sometimes, the most responsible choice is asking for help and choosing a legal solution that gives you breathing room and peace of mind.
📞 Ready to Talk?
If August has brought more bills than blessings, let’s talk about your options. Bankruptcy might not be your only solution—but if it is, I’ll help you handle it with dignity and confidence.
📍 Call today at 904-432-1221 or visit www.ramonachaplinpa.com to schedule a confidential consultation.
You’ve survived summer—now take control of your fall. 🍂
As families evolve, so do their financial circumstances. With summer in full swing
🌴☀, it may be the perfect time to reassess whether your current child support arrangement still meets your family’s needs.
In Florida, either parent can request a modification of child support when there’s been a substantial change in circumstances. 📉📈
💡 Common reasons for modification:
🔁 A significant increase or decrease in income
💼 Job loss or a new employment opportunity
👧🏽 A change in the child’s needs (health care, education, etc.)
👨👩👧 A change in timesharing arrangements
To qualify, the change must generally result in at least a 15% or $50 difference in the support amount under Florida’s child support guidelines.
🛠 Steps to Modify Child Support:
- 📝 File a Supplemental Petition
- 📬 Serve the other parent and
- 📂 Provide documentation
⚠ Important: Informal agreements cause future disputes. Always go
💬 If your financial situation has renewal—and that includes your legal
👨⚖ Need help filing or defending Our experienced family law team is compassion and clarity.
📞 Call us at (904) 432-1221 or
💻 Visit us online: www.ramonachaplinpa.com
June is a special time to celebrate the fathers in our lives. Whether you’re a dad yourself or supporting one, Father’s Day is a reminder of the vital role fathers play in the upbringing and well-being of their children. 👨👧👦💙
This year, the celebration carries new significance for Florida fathers. In July 2023, Florida law underwent a major change that directly impacts parental rights. Under the new legislation, courts now operate with a presumption that equal (50/50)
timesharing is in the best interest of the child ⚖. This means that both parents,
including fathers, are presumed to be equally capable of sharing the responsibilities and joys of raising their children. 👨🏾⚖👩🏼⚖
While this presumption is rebuttable—meaning a judge can decide differently if evidence shows equal timesharing is not appropriate—it marks a significant shift toward fairness and shared parenting responsibilities in Florida family law.
However, to take advantage of these you are not married to the child’s fathers may have no enforceable rights
📋 Steps to Establish Parental Rights:
✅ File a petition to establish paternity
✅ Request a parenting plan with
✅ Determine child support, if applicable
At The Law Offices of Ramona S. committed to helping fathers navigate this process with confidence
📅 This Father’s Day, give yourself—and gift of legal certainty.
Let us help you take the next step parent.
📞 Call us at (904) 432-1221 or
💻 Visit us online: www.ramonachaplinpa.com
