Author Archives: Jay Butchko
Is a Home Purchased By One Person Before Marriage Considered Marital Property?
You’re headed for divorce and have real concerns about property division. You’re not sure what constitutes marital property—that which is to be equitably divided—and personal property—that which belongs solely to one individual. In particular, you’re concerned about the house, which was purchased prior to the marriage, has only one person’s name on the deed,… Read More »
Not Sure About Divorce?
Many people have contemplated divorce, unable to decide with certainty whether it’s the right path or not. That’s because divorce is a whopping, usually final, rung on the ladder in one’s marriage. Sometimes it’s difficult to know if and when it’s the right time to move forward with it. If you find yourself wondering… Read More »
The Impact of Domestic Violence on Custody in Divorce
When couples with children divorce in Missouri, the courts generally prefer shared physical and legal custody so that each parent can share equally in decision-making and in the raising of the kids to the largest extent possible. But when there is a history of domestic violence (DV) in families, shared living arrangements and decision-making… Read More »
Can Parents with Disabilities Enjoy Custody of their Children in Divorce?
You’re the kids’ parent, right? Who better than you to raise them? There is literally no one on this earth who can love them more, build their esteem, and help them become good, solid human beings. But there’s a problem. Your soon-to-be ex wants full custody, and has a slight advantage: they don’t suffer… Read More »
How to Survive a Divorce with a Narcissist
Divorce can be tough, and never more so than when one party plays the victim throughout the entire process. That’s because a narcissist is in it to win, meaning they need for you to lose. How can you navigate a difficult process with someone whose primary goal is to make you suffer? Understanding the… Read More »
When Your Spouse is Disabled and You Wish to Divorce
Divorce is generally filled with a slew of emotions, from anger and jealousy to sadness and rejection. When you are divorcing a spouse who suffers from serious disabilities, you may be adding guilt to the list of feelings you’re experiencing. But if divorce is the right move for you, it’s best to put emotions… Read More »
Divorce: The Discovery Process
In any divorce, there can be a huge exchange of documents. It is all part of the discovery process, and the intent is to ensure that both sides have any information pertinent to the division of assets, time sharing with the kids, and so forth. What can you expect, and how can you expedite… Read More »
Missouri Probation, Parole, & Conditional Release
For individuals eligible for parole, conditional release, or probation, know that the alternative puts you behind bars. That’s why it’s essential to understand the rules you’ll be expected to live by in the state of Missouri. 1- Obey state and federal laws. Any arrests must be reported to your PO within 48 hours, no… Read More »
When Missouri Divorce Is Held Up By Pregnancy
If you are ready for a divorce, chomping at the bit to be free, there is one thing that can hold things up for a period of time. If you or your spouse is pregnant, your divorce cannot be finalized in the state of Missouri. There’s no way around it—you’re stuck in wedded bliss… Read More »
The Evolution Of No-Fault Divorce: A Boon For Women Over Time
As we celebrate International Women’s Day, a day that features inequities faced by women across the globe, it’s worth looking at the history of women in America who were trapped in unhappy—even dangerous marriages, with no way out. Looking Back Sure, these days divorce is as common as potato chips and splinters, but it… Read More »