Author Archives: Jay Butchko
When Child Support Can Be Modified in Missouri
Child support orders in Missouri are not always permanent. Courts recognize that financial circumstances and the needs of children can change over time. When a substantial change in circumstances occurs, a parent may be able to request a modification of an existing child support order. Understanding when a modification is allowed is important for… Read More »
How to Prepare for Divorce Mediation in Missouri
Divorce mediation in Missouri is a process in which spouses work with a neutral third party to resolve issues such as property division, child custody, child support, and spousal maintenance without going to trial. Missouri courts often encourage mediation because it can reduce conflict and help parties reach agreements more efficiently. Under Missouri law,… Read More »
Can Text Messages Be Used as Evidence in Missouri Divorce Cases?
In today’s digital world, text messages often play a central role in personal communication. As a result, they are increasingly relevant in divorce litigation. In Missouri, courts do permit the use of text messages as evidence, provided that certain legal standards are satisfied. These communications can be powerful in establishing key facts related to… Read More »
What Happens to Credit Card Debt During Divorce in Missouri?
Divorce often raises tough financial questions. One of the most common concerns people have is about credit card debt. Who is responsible for paying it? Does it get split evenly? If you are going through a divorce in Missouri, understanding how debt is handled can help you prepare for what comes next. Understanding Marital… Read More »
Temporary Child Support During Divorce in Missouri
If you are going through a divorce in Missouri, you may be wondering how day-to-day expenses will be handled before everything is finalized. Divorce cases can take months, and sometimes longer. During that time, children still need food, housing, medical care, and stability. This is where temporary child support, often called “pendente lite” support,… Read More »
Who Gets the Family Pet in a Missouri Divorce?
If you are going through a divorce, one of the most emotional questions may be this: who gets the family pet? For many people, a dog or cat is not just property. It is part of the family. However, under Missouri law, pets are generally treated as marital property rather than as dependents. Missouri… Read More »
One Last Chance or Just Get Divorced?
You and your spouse have had the same issues for what seems like forever. You’ve talked (argued) about them endlessly, all to simply put them in a closet for a bit and revisit them again later. The thing is, nothing is getting resolved, and you’re tired of rehashing the same old arguments again and… Read More »
Divorcing and Coparenting with an Abusive Spouse
Studies indicate that about one out of every four divorces in the country are due in large part to abuse. It is, in fact, one of the leading causes of divorce. Whether the abuse is physical, psychological, financial, or sexual, the abuse is very real, and very dangerous. It often develops gradually, cycling between… Read More »
Regretting a Prenup?
When you got married, you were certain it would be a forever love. When your partner requested that you sign a prenup, you figured that since you would never consider divorce the prenup was simply a meaningless piece of paper, worthy of being forgotten. You quickly signed it and prepared for marital bliss. No… Read More »
Minimizing Negative Impacts of Divorce
It’s one of the most traumatic events in life for many people, so it’s no surprise that the effects can be devastating. While many people expect to experience mental health impacts to be short term, research demonstrates that these issues can last for years. And because the physical self is connected to the mental… Read More »
